07.21.09
Kentucky Cup Reining Test Event Gets Rave Reviews
World Games 2010 Foundation Testing All Operations
LEXINGTON, KY- The first test event in preparation for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games kicked off with spirited competition and rave reviews for the Kentucky Horse Park’s new indoor arena that opened with the Kentucky Cup Reining competition.
Team USA’s Aaron Ralston made history as the first athlete to compete in the arena.
“After my ride, it really started to sink in. It is so special to be a part of something as big as these preparations for the 2010 Games,” he said. “To be on this team with these athletes-it’s all bigger than just me.”
The competition ran smoothly and the facility preparation received high scores from the teams.
Team USA chef d’equipe Jeff Petska commended the Games’ organizing committee and event management for their outstanding job in putting on the event. “The organizing committee did a fantastic job,” he said. “It’s a great arena and the footing was very, very good. We are very excited for the opportunity to come back here for the 2010 Games.”
Petska also thanked sponsors such as Alltech, Ariat, John Deere, Rolex, Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital, the American Farriers Association, UK Healthcare, Fortune Realty and Pieratts, for their commitment to reining.
Just as organizers are testing their preparations at Kentucky Cup events, participating countries are testing their best against teams they may see in 2010.
“We certainly have our work cut out for us to beat Team USA and others-such as Germany and Italy who are not here today,” said Team Canada Chef d’Equipe Wendy Dyer. “We will plan as best we can to field the best horses and riders.”
Team Mexico Chef d’Equipe Alberto Hawa noted, “I am very pleased to be here and it is an honor to be part of this first event. I think the arena is very good, and everyone’s teams were very good. We are trying to be better every time and we are learning from the big guys. We are excited to see what will happen between now and next year.”
As reining grows in popularity, organizers and teams know that fans around the world will be looking toward the Kentucky Horse Park and the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games with great anticipation.
Kentucky Cup Reining will conclude Thursday evening with the individual finals at 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the event are free to the public. Evening parking at the Kentucky Horse Park is $5.
About the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games:
The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games are the world championships of eight equestrian disciplines recognized by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI). Her Royal Highness Princess Haya is the current president of the FEI. The Games are held every four years and this will be the first occurrence in the United States.
The Games will be broadcast on NBC Sports, which has marked the largest commitment to network coverage of equestrian sport in U.S. television history. The 2010 Games are expected to have a statewide economic impact of $150 million, and current sponsors include Alltech, Rolex, John Deere, Ariat International, Inc and Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital. For more information on the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, please visit www.alltechfeigames.com.
AbitaNet Corporation
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