The COVID-19 news story is on the mind of everyone on the planet right now and, based on the city or state where we live, we all know what public safety restrictions have been enacted. Certainly, your team roping hobby might be the best diversion, particularly in rural areas where there are no cases; restrictions imposed may or may not be in force in your area.
Yesterday we received notification that the Mayor of Fort Worth had declared a public emergency, cancelling all events in public facilities for the time being. We woke up to the news this morning that the Kentucky Derby has been postponed until September, which is the only time this has occurred since World War II. The stark realities are upon us. In the face of these tremendous issues, it is prudent that we make this announcement at this time.
USTRC FINALS: Currently the Fort Worth Mayor has cancelled events for the next two weeks, with no indication that the cancelling of event will stop there. With the USTRC Finals pre entry deadline falling close to that deadline, and the unsureness of the event, The CINCH USTRC National Finals event in Fort Worth’s Will Rogers Memorial Center will be RESCHEDULED from April to September 7 to 14, 2020. We feel very confident that things will return to normal as warm weather approaches and are very happy that the Will Rogers Memorial Center offered us this date. For the many who have already entered, we will call each of you individually to find out if you want to push your entry to September.
LOCAL EVENTS: As we announced last week, we are in constant communication with our event contractors who, based upon their region and recommendations from their local health experts, may or may not have their event. Unfortunately, this is an ever-changing situation that our country has never faced, and we all want to return to our normal lives, including the enjoyment of team roping. We assure you that we will continue to update the roping community on a weekly basis via USTRC.com, WSTRoping.com, Facebook, Instagram, The Team Roping Journal and through texting.
For the contractors who may decide to have events, we are working to be creative, using technological tools that will allow ropers to enter on-site events, while still allowing social distancing so that you can continue to enjoy our great sport. There are many WSTR and USTRC events scheduled in March and April. If the contractor decides to re-schedule or cancel his/her event in an abundance of caution, you will receive the specific communication via text in your area and/or as well as on the other social media platforms.
In addition, while our office staff will be operating in a different format, we are fully operational and work-flow and hours will remain the same for our employees.
These are unique times, and we are grateful for your support and contribution to our Western lifestyle. Stay safe. TRJ
