SHELBYVILLE, Ky. — As Churchill Downs resumes thoroughbred racing with social distancing modifications, members of the saddlebred community say they hope to rebound as well. 

“It’s been challenging. It’s a huge financial hit that a lot of barns are taking, but, you know, that’s exactly why we need to get the shows back open,” Gerhardt Roos told Spectrum News. 

Gerhardt is co-owner of Rose Stables in Shelbyville and shared how the coronavirus pandemic has affected their livelihood. 

“We’re in all aspects of the breed as far as foaling, training, everything that entails the saddlebred business,” Gerhard adds.

For those unfamiliar with the sport, saddlebred competitions are much more significant than its pomp and circumstance. According to Saddlebred Horse Association Executive Director David Mount, these shows are a big driver of horse sales and other business associated with the breed. 

“COVID-19 has had a huge impact... it’s completely shut down business,” Mount said. “It’s big for the tourism industry…and in Louisville the World Championship Horse Show, which is the largest saddlebred show, has an economic impact of $15 million annually,’ Mount continues. 

With some 7,000 members nationwide Mount says the Saddlebred Horse Association is advising members on how to stay creative until restrictions on gatherings and events are eased.

Roos says stables and trainers are already well-equipped to move forward with events while maintaining a social distancing standard. 

Roos adds, “The horse sport is a social distancing sport already. We’ve been practicing it for years. We’re always ten feet apart, low number of people...It’s rider and horse by itself, we’re outside in the sun, open air.”