07.21.09
Posted in 2010 Games, Disciplines, Kentucky Horse Park, Reining at 4:12 pm by Thomas
Kentucky Cup Reining Initiates Kentucky Horse Park’s New Indoor Arena
LEXINGTON, KY-With a great sense of anticipation, Team USA’s Aaron Ralston made history as he entered the ring as the first athlete ever to compete in the Kentucky Horse Park’s new indoor arena in Kentucky Cup Reining, the first test event for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.
“I really didn’t realize it was happening until afterwards, and then it opened my eyes and it really started to sink in. To be involved in something so big and special as these test events for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games and to be on the team with these athletes is so special. It’s all bigger than just me. It’s a great honor and it’s very humbling,” said Ralston, 32, of Silt, CO, winner of team Gold and individual Bronze Medals at the 2006 World Equestrian Games.
Kentucky Cup Reining, a CRI4* competition officially sanctioned by the International Equestrian Federation (FEI), featured teams from Canada, Mexico, and the United States. The U.S. finished first with a team score of 659.50, followed by Canada with 641.00 and Mexico with 631.50. The Individual Final will be held on Thursday, July 23 at 7:30 p.m.
For the test event, Team USA fielded a seasoned team featuring four WEG Gold Medalists. They were led to the win by Shawn Flarida, 40, of Springfield, OH, double Gold Medalist in reining’s WEG debut in 2002. Flarida received a score of 370.00 from the five-judge panel for his ride on Smart Spook, an 8-year-old, AQHA Sorrel stallion owned by Rosanne Sternberg of Aubrey, TX.
Also turning in stellar performances for the winning U.S. team were Ralston, who scored 354.00 on Double My Whiskey, a 6-year-old, Quarter Horse stallion owned by Waggoner Estate of Vernon, TX; his 2006 WEG Gold Medal teammate Dell Hendricks of Tioga, TX, who scored 367.00 on Starbucks Sidekick, a 9-year-old, Quarter Horse, stallion owned by Adair Reiners, LLC; and Tom McCutcheon of Aubrey, TX, winner of team Gold and individual Silver Medals at the 2002 WEG, who scored 362.50 on Darlins Not Painted, a 7-year-old, American Paint Horse mare owned by Randy Paul of Scottsdale, AZ.
While pleased with his team’s performance, Team USA chef d’equipe Jeff Petska pointed out that the team selected for next year’s Games will face a formidable challenge. “Getting ready for a World Equestrian Games is a very involved process and the teams get better every year. It is a sport that began and grew here, but now that advantage is dwindling as the sport is becoming more international. We’re talking to riders and looking for horses because everyone wants to field the best athletes they can. As the sport grows the level of athleticism required for both horses and riders continues to get higher and higher.”
About Reining
Reining was added to the FEI as a discipline in 2000 and was featured for the first time in 2002 at the FEI World Equestrian Games in Jerez, Spain. Huge crowds for the Reining competitions at the 2006 Games in Aachen, Germany launched the discipline and its athletes into fame, with sold-out performances and loud, fanatical crowds.
As the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games come to Kentucky, the sport of Reining is sure to enjoy a sort of “homecoming” in the US, as the only western discipline recognized by the FEI. Plans are well under way to feature Reining in new and exciting ways in 2010, including a newly approved schedule format – allowing for more public sessions of the discipline.
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.
Further information on the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, including full results of Kentucky Cup Reining, is available on line at www.alltechfeigames.com.
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Posted in 2010 Games, Disciplines, Kentucky Horse Park, Reining at 10:18 am by Thomas
KENTUCKY CUP REINING STARTS TODAY
LEXINGTON, KY-The first test event of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games begins today as Kentucky Cup Reining slides in the new indoor arena of the Kentucky Horse Park. Kentucky Cup Reining will be the first competition held in the park’s new arena.
Kentucky Cup Reining is a CRI4* competition, officially sanctioned by the International Equestrian Federation (FEI), featuring teams from Canada, Mexico, and the United States. The Nations’ Cup team competition will be held July 21 at 10:00 a.m., and the Individual Final will be held Thursday, July 23 at 7:30 p.m.
“We are thrilled to bring such a spirited rivalry to the Kentucky Horse Park for the first test event,” said Brad Ettleman, reining discipline manager for the World Games 2010 Foundation. “As the fastest growing equestrian sport, reining is a discipline I am confident spectators will enjoy as they get this sneak peak of 2010 competition.”
The Kentucky Cup Reining competition is also an opportunity for organizers of the 2010 Games to test planning and preparations well in advance of next year’s world championships.
“The test events will give us a detailed account of our preparations in many operational areas,” said Foundation CEO Jamie Link. “These opportunities are critical to ensure that we are prepared to successfully host an event of this magnitude and importance in 2010.”
Many 2010 Games sponsors are assisting with Kentucky Cup Reining, including Alltech, John Deere, Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital, the American Farriers Association, UK Healthcare, Fortune Realty and Pieratts.
About Reining
Reining was added to the FEI as a discipline in 2000 and was featured for the first time in 2002 at the FEI World Equestrian Games in Jerez, Spain. Huge crowds for the Reining competitions at the 2006 Games in Aachen, Germany launched the discipline and its athletes into fame, with sold-out performances and loud, fanatical crowds.
As the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games come to Kentucky, the sport of Reining is sure to enjoy a sort of “homecoming” in the US, as the only western discipline recognized by the FEI. Plans are well under way to feature Reining in new and exciting ways in 2010, including a newly approved schedule format – allowing for more public sessions of the discipline.
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
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07.01.09
Posted in 2010 Games at 12:00 am by Thomas
2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games Announces Ticket Prices
Ticket Sales Set to Begin on September 25, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JUNE 30, 2009
LEXINGTON, KY—Ticket prices and detailed competition schedules for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games are now available as the world’s most prestigious equestrian competition prepares to visit the Kentucky Horse Park from September 25-October 10, 2010.
Ticket prices and event start times have been finalized for the eight world championships, which are being held outside of Europe for the first time in their history. Tickets will go on sale September 25, 2009, exactly one year before the Games arrive in Kentucky. Approximately 600,000 tickets will be available with prices starting as low as $25.
For a complete list of ticket prices, click
here.
“We are pleased to have created a ticket program that will be accessible and affordable,” said Jamie Link, CEO of the World Games 2010 Foundation. “We have a wide range of prices that offer something for everyone, from equestrian enthusiasts to visitors who want to enjoy the 2010 Games, the Kentucky Horse Park and the many other activities and offerings we have available.”
Ticket sales will be facilitated by the 2010 Games Ticketing Provider, Ticketmaster, Inc. All ticket sales will be completed online at the Games Web site,
www.alltechfeigames.com, beginning on September 25, 2009.
Event start times are subject to change. By registering at
www.alltechfeigames.com, interested buyers will be able to receive important news and information about ticket sales as it becomes available. Subscribers will also receive:
· A 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games competition schedule
· Housing and accommodation information
· Press releases on the latest news updates
· Information on hospitality packages
· The latest release of official 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Game merchandise
· Information on events and activities in Kentucky during the 2010 Games
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
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05.12.09
Posted in 2010 Games at 9:22 pm by Thomas
The excitement continues to build as we cross this important threshold. With only 500 days to go lots of things are coming together nicely and all indications are that everything for the Games will be in place for their start. So stay tuned, as there will be more to come as we count down to the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in 2010 and the Kentucky World Equestrian Games of the Future.
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03.09.09
Posted in 2010 Games, Alltech, Kentucky Ale at 5:57 pm by Thomas
LEXINGTON, KY—The World Games 2010 Foundation today announced Kentucky Ale as the Official Beer of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.
Alltech, the title sponsor of the 2010 Games, owns the Alltech’s Lexington Brewing and Distilling Company that produces Kentucky Ale, Kentucky Light, and Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale. Kentucky Ale products will be the exclusive beer available to the general public at the Kentucky Horse Park during the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.
“For four years in a row, Alltech’s Lexington Brewing and Distilling Company has been awarded the Taste of the Bluegrass ‘Best Alcoholic Beverage’ distinction,” said Dr. Pearse Lyons, president and founder of Alltech. “We are excited to provide our global visitors with the opportunity to taste an authentic Kentucky brew as the Official Beer of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.”
Kentucky Ale, Kentucky Light and Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale are Lexington’s only locally-brewed beers. Located in the heart of downtown, Alltech’s Lexington Brewing and Distilling Company has been creating award-winning beers since 2000 when its flagship beer, Kentucky Ale, was released. Kentucky Light debuted in 2003, and Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale completed Kentucky’s Triple Crown of Beers in 2006.
“We are very pleased to announce Kentucky Ale as the Official Beer of the 2010 Games,” said Terry Johnson, vice president of sales for the Foundation. “Alltech has been a committed sponsor to the Games from the very beginning, and this extended partnership with Alltech and Lexington’s only locally-brewed beers illustrates their dedication to the Games.”
The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games are the world championships of eight equestrian disciplines recognized by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), and are held every four years. The Games have never before been held outside of Europe; nor have all eight disciplines competed at a single site—both firsts that will be achieved at the Kentucky Horse Park.
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
Media Contacts:
Permalink
Posted in 2010 Games, Alltech, FEI at 8:20 am by Thomas
The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games Web site has a new home at
www.alltechfeigames.com. The Web site still includes features such as the event schedule, discipline information, latest news, information on tickets, and hospitality packages, as well as the latest news on the 2010 Games.
The online store for the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games also has a new look with added merchandise at
http://www.weg2010store.com. The online store now features merchandise from Ariat International, Inc., the official Apparel and Footwear Sponsor of the Games.
The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games are the world championships of eight equestrian disciplines recognized by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), and are held every four years. The Games have never before been held outside of Europe; nor have all eight disciplines competed at a single site—both firsts that will be achieved at the Kentucky Horse Park.
Media Contacts:
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 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 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, please visit www.alltechfeigames.com.
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02.25.09
Posted in 2010 Games, BusinessLexington, Jamie Link, LFUCG, Trade Fair, World Games 2010 Foundation at 10:31 pm by Thomas
I attended the second World Games 2010 Foundation Community Forum at the Lexington Public Library today. Tom Martin, editor of Business Lexington was the moderator for the hour long event. The forum panel was made up of new Foundation CEO Jamie Link, Vice President of Sales Terry Johnson, and Housing Bureau Director Krista Greathouse.
The primary topic of the day was the economy though by the end of the hour a wide range of subjects had been discussed. Tom noted that the Foundation and the Local Government were still working out the intricacies between the two bodies. The Host City Agreement is before the Lexington Urban Council but has yet to come up for a final vote.
Currently spectator interest in the Games continues to be high with Krista stating that they are averaging a new group a week contacting them for accommodations, with 75% of those groups being International as well as 2000 new room requests per month. Krista also noted that the area should have plenty of accommodations for all those planning on attending and that currently they had three times as many private residences for rent then the current demand though she expected that to change as the date for the Games got closer.
On the other side of the equation, Terry stated they were 70% of their budgeted goal for sponsorships and that two or three new major sponsors would be announced in the next 90 days. He also reported that they have deposits for 60% of the currently designated Trade Fair booth space and that if they filled that up that they would find additional space for anyone else looking for booth space during the Games.
On another interesting note, the City is planning on having a duplicate medal ceremonies downtown at the Robert F. Stephens Courthouse Plaza during the Games.
CEO Jamie Link closed the forum by addressing the issue of the economy and how the investment in the Games was an investment in the future of Kentucky during these tough times.
Thomas Demond
Found KyWEGO
Permalink
02.04.09
Posted in 2010 Games, Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital at 8:46 pm by Thomas
LEXINGTON, KY-Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital will provide veterinary services for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games test events, as announced today by the World Games 2010 Foundation, Inc.
As the Official Equine Hospital and Veterinary Partner for 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, Rood and Riddle has extended its partnership with the Games to provide veterinary services for a series of test events beginning in 2009. The test events, each called The Kentucky Cup, will allow the World Games 2010 Foundation, Inc. to prepare for the world championships coming to the Kentucky Horse Park in 2010.
“Rood and Riddle is very pleased to provide the veterinary services for The Kentucky Cup test events,” said Dr. Tom Riddle. “Our entire staff of veterinarians looks forward with great excitement to serving the sport horse industry, both at the test events and the 2010 Games.”
Lexington-based Rood & Riddle is a full-service equine hospital established in 1986 as a referral center for horses requiring specialized medical and surgical care. Today, Rood & Riddle is known and respected throughout the world for its innovative and highly skilled treatment of horses. The hospital facility offers a full range of services including surgery, internal medicine, advanced diagnostic imaging, a focused Podiatry Center and a specialized Reproductive Center. The practice also provides ambulatory services (on-site care) for breeding farms, sport horse facilities, horse shows and events, with a variety of services, including emergency and preventative care, general reproduction, lameness, radiography, podiatry, and internal medicine.
“We are very fortunate to extend our partnership with Rood and Riddle through the test events for the 2010 Games, and to have the services of such a high-caliber equine hospital available to our equine athletes,” said Competition Director Kate Jackson.
The competitions will begin in 2009 and run through the 2010 Rolex Three-Day Event. All events will be held at the Kentucky Horse Park. Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital will manage the veterinary needs for all test events. A complete schedule of all Kentucky Cup test events is available at www.feigames2010.org.
The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games are the world championships of eight equestrian disciplines recognized by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), and are held every four years. The Games have never before been held outside of Europe; nor have all eight disciplines competed at a single site-both firsts that will be achieved at the Kentucky Horse Park.
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 other 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.feigames2010.org.
Media Contact:
World Games 2010 Foundation
Amy Walker
859-255-2010 ext. 235
awalker@feigames2010.org
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02.03.09
Posted in 2010 Games, Competition Schedule, Updates at 11:13 pm by Thomas
LEXINGTON, KY-The World Games 2010 Foundation today announced a revision to the competition schedule for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.
The new schedule moves the Reining competition to September 25-30, and shifts the Vaulting competition to October 1-10. No other discipline schedules were altered.
As an added benefit, NBC Sports will extend its coverage of the 2010 Games on September 26th, adding an extra 30 minutes of Games programming. The broadcast, tentatively scheduled for noon-1:30 p.m., will feature the opening ceremonies, and highlights from the Reining and Endurance competitions.
“We are very confident that this is strong schedule, providing a variety of top sport on each day of the Games,” said Competition Director Kate Jackson.
To view the updated competition schedule, please, click here.
The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games are the world championships of eight equestrian disciplines recognized by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), and are held every four years. The Games have never before been held outside of Europe; nor have all eight disciplines competed at a single site-both firsts that will be achieved at the Kentucky Horse Park.
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 other 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.feigames2010.org.
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01.24.09
Posted in 2010 Games, Announcement, Web site at 9:39 pm by Thomas
LEXINGTON, KY—The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games has a new look on the Web! Today the World Games 2010 Foundation officially launched a new Web site for the 2010 Games, at www.feigames2010.org.
Visitors to the new Web site will find valuable educational materials about the eight world championships to be contested in 2010. Curious fans can get a sneak peak of what the Kentucky Horse Park will look like in 2010, with an interactive venue map, stadium and arena renderings, and links to the horse park’s construction updates.
In depth information regarding business, retail, and community opportunities is also available, including the 2010 Games Trade Show.
Visitors will also be able to use the new Web site to plan their trips to Kentucky in 2010. Information about the 2010 Games Housing Bureau and hotel options, traveling to Kentucky, and local tourism resources are all available on the new site.
“We wanted the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games Web site to be a tool for everyone interested, whether you want to learn more about the Games, want to be involved in the Games, or want to plan your trip to Kentucky,” said Danielle Landolt, Marketing and Sales Manager for the Foundation. “We will continue to provide information that is relevant and exciting on the new Web site from now until 2010.”
The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games are the world championships of eight equestrian disciplines recognized by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), and are held every four years. The Games have never before been held outside of Europe; nor have all eight disciplines competed at a single site—both firsts that will be achieved at the Kentucky Horse Park.
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 other current sponsors include Alltech, Rolex, John Deere and Ariat International, Inc. For more information on the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, please visit www.feigames2010.org.
Permalink
01.22.09
Posted in 2010 Games, Announcement at 10:16 pm by Thomas
LEXINGTON, KY—The World Games 2010 Foundation today announced a partnership with the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare for the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.
“The University of Kentucky is pleased to partner with the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games,” said President Lee T. Todd, Jr. “As the Commonwealth’s flagship university, we share in the state’s commitment to make the Games the world’s premier sporting event in 2010. This international competition places Kentucky on the world stage, and we are ready to help showcase our state.”
The university’s sponsorship includes a broad range of partnerships across UK’s departments and organizations. In addition, UK HealthCare will be the “Official Medical Provider” of the 2010 Games, and will provide first aid and medical services for spectators, fans, and participants during the Games including personnel and equipment. UK will donate more than 7,000 hours in medical personnel time during the Games.
Dr. Mike Karpf, UK executive vice president of health affairs, said, “UK HealthCare is excited to play a significant role in the operations of the 2010 Games. As we welcome thousands of guests to our community, I can assure you that UK HealthCare is fully prepared to provide the medical and emergency care for our visitors.”
UK’s College of Agriculture will also be the “Official Equine Initiative” of the 2010 Games, partnering with the Games and others in the equine industry to discover, share, and apply new knowledge to enhance the health, performance, and management of horses. UK’s Office of Commercialization and Economic Development will also work with the 2010 Games to provide access to the Coldstream Research Campus as needed.
Other UK Colleges, departments and campus units, including Foreign Language, Arts and Sciences, Fine Arts, Design, as well as the Career Services Department, will provide assistance and support for the 2010 Games when appropriate.
“We are very grateful to the University of Kentucky for this significant pledge of support to the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games,” said Jamie Link, CEO of the World Games 2010 Foundation. “We are confident this partnership will help the university expand its programs, enhance learning opportunities, and garner recognition as the first-class university it is.”
The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games are the world championships of eight equestrian disciplines recognized by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), and are held every four years. The Games have never before been held outside of Europe; nor have all eight disciplines competed at a single site—both firsts that will be achieved at the Kentucky Horse Park.
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 other current sponsors include Alltech, Rolex, John Deere and Ariat International, Inc. For more information on the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, please visit www.feigames2010.org.
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01.05.09
Posted in 2010 Games, Announcement, Jamie Link, World Games 2010 Foundation at 9:48 pm by Thomas
LEXINGTON, KY— The World Games 2010 Foundation today announced that it has selected Jamie Link as the new Chief Executive Officer of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.
Link has been serving as Deputy Secretary of the Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet since December 2007 and prior to that spent several months as the Deputy Executive Director of the Kentucky Horse Park. In his current role, he has served as an ex officio member of the World Games 2010 Foundation board of directors and has been actively involved in the ongoing construction projects at the Kentucky Horse Park and major vendor selections related to the Games.
“I am honored to be selected as CEO of the World Games 2010 Foundation and look forward to working with the wonderful staffs of the Foundation and the Kentucky Horse Park,” Link said. “It is going to take all of us working together and we are committed to showcasing to our visitors not only the world’s finest equestrian venue that is the Kentucky Horse Park, but also the many amazing attractions we have throughout the Commonwealth of Kentucky.”
“I have watched Jamie participate in many of the meetings and was impressed with his ability to get things done. The planning for the Games is at a critical juncture and we need to have a full time CEO to manage the process for the next 21 months,” said John Long, board chairman and acting CEO. “Jamie’s familiarity with the Games planning means he will be able to jump in immediately and make an impact.”
Long also added that the Games proactively recruited Mr. Link. There was no pressure from the state. In fact, Long said that Secretary Marcheta Sparrow—also a board member—politely reprimanded him for stealing Link.
Secretary Sparrow added “although I am sorry to lose Jamie as my co-worker in state government I am confident in his abilities to lead the Games at this critical time. His knowledge of the Kentucky Horse Park and the importance of this event to our state’s image throughout the world is tremendous.”
John Nicholson, Executive Director of the Kentucky Horse Park said “having known and worked with Jamie Link for a number of years, I can state with confidence that he is uniquely qualified for this position and I am delighted that he has accepted the Board’s offer. Everyone at the Kentucky Horse Park has witnessed firsthand Jamie’s uncommon talent, integrity and dedication during his time as Deputy Director. He understands the Park’s day-to-day operations and the special needs of the Park for the 16 days of high level championship competition. In addition, it is helpful to have someone familiar with all of our key community and state leaders involved in this project to help streamline our efforts. I look forward to once again having the pleasure of working with him as we build toward, not only this epoch moment in our history, but for the great legacy it will provide.”
Link will officially begin serving as CEO on January 12, but has already begun the transition and attending meetings as needed to be up-to-date on all operations when he joins the staff full-time.
The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games are the world championships of eight equestrian disciplines recognized by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), and are held every four years. The Games have never before been held outside of Europe; nor have all eight disciplines competed at a single site—both firsts that will be achieved at the Kentucky Horse Park.
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 other current sponsors include Alltech, Rolex, John Deere and Ariat International, Inc. For more information on the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, please visit
Media Contacts:
World Games 2010 Foundation
Amy Walker
859-255-2010 ext. 235 or 859-699-0443 (cell)
awalker@feigames2010.org
Ellen Gregory
Preston-Osborne
859-231-7711 ext 234 or 859-338-1775 (cell)
elgregory@preston-osborne.com
Permalink
12.02.08
Posted in 2010 Games at 11:09 pm by Thomas
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DATE: December 2, 2008
LEXINGTON, KY— The World Games 2010 Foundation today unveiled the Official Image of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, created by internationally renowned artist LeRoy Neiman.
The painting features each of the eight equestrian sports that comprise the World Equestrian Games, illustrated in Mr. Neiman’s style of brilliantly-colored, energetic imagery. As the Official Commemorative Artist of the 2010 Games, creating the piece was a return to a subject, and a place, with which Mr. Neiman has had a lifelong love.
“The horse has always been a favorite subject of mine, from the work horse to race horses,” said Mr. Neiman. “Kentucky is horse country, where this noble animal is prominent and appreciated. It has been a joy to paint the eight different disciplines for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. I’m looking forward to attending in 2010 with sketchbook in hand.”
The painting will initially be stored and displayed at the International Museum of the Horse at Lexington’s Kentucky Horse Park, the site of the 2010 Games. A traveling schedule for the painting is in development. In addition, Cobalt Artworks of Louisville, Kentucky hopes to present a retrospective exhibition featuring Mr. Neiman’s collection of equestrian work in downtown Lexington during the 2010 Games.
“When it comes to sports, and particularly sport in America, Leroy Neiman has been an icon for more than a half century. We are extremely pleased and honored to know that he will now be represented in our collections,” said Bill Cooke,Curator, “A Gift from the Desert” exhibition and “The Arabian Horse Galleries”. “That his wonderful painting depicts all aspects of the most significant event in the history of the Kentucky Horse Park makes this even more special.”
Official merchandise including signed and official posters and notecards of the print, are now available at the 2010 Games online store, at www.feigames2010.org. or at Cobalt Artworks gallery site, www.cobaltartworks.com. Merchandise featuring the individual disciplines as depicted in Mr. Neiman’s painting is also in development.
“Having a LeRoy Neiman painting is a special achievement for any sporting event, and we are honored that the 2010 Games will be another great canvas to join his great body of work,” said John Long, Chairman of the World Games 2010 Foundation Board of Directors.
Best known for his images of sporting events and leisure activities, LeRoy Neiman is considered one of the most popular living artists in the United States. He has been the official artist of five Olympics, four Super Bowls, as well as the Breeders’ Cup and the Kentucky Derby. He has most recently been in Kentucky to attend the 37th Ryder Cup at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville and was the Official Commemorative Artist for that prestigious event. Mr. Neiman was commissioned as the Official Artist of the 2010 Games and began research on the work in October of 2007.
The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games are the world championships of eight equestrian disciplines recognized by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), and are held every four years. The Games have never before been held outside of Europe; nor have all eight disciplines competed at a single site—both firsts that will be achieved at the Kentucky Horse Park.
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 other current sponsors include Alltech, Rolex, and Ariat International, Inc. For more information on the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, please visit www.feigames2010.org.
Cobalt Artworks is a Louisville based publishing and licensing company and is currently hosting a year-long retrospective of Neiman’s work entitled “LeRoy Neiman – Five Decades.” The exhibit is comprised of paintings, prints, drawings, books and posters curated from the Artist’s personal collection and will be on display through December, 2008. For more information about the Neiman retrospective please call (502) 584-0020 or visit www.cobaltartworks.com.
Media Contacts:
World Games 2010 Foundation
Amy Walker
859-255-2010 ext. 235
awalker@feigames2010.org
Colbalt Artworks
Ben Isaacs
502-584-0020
bisaacs@cobaltart.com
LEROY NEIMAN PAINTING FOR 2010 ALLTECH FEI WORLD EQUESTRIAN GAMES
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10.02.08
Posted in 2010 Games, Kentucky, Kentucky Horse Council, Kentucky Horse Park, Media Day, United States Dressage Federation at 10:47 pm by Thomas
The Kentucky Horse Park hosted the 3rd Annual Kentucky Horse Park and National Horse Center Media Day. For anyone in the media this is a great learning experience on all that is the Kentucky Horse Park no matter if you are in Equine media or not and I highly recommend it. The day started out with a number of breed and discipline demonstrations in the covered arena.
Patricia (PJ) Cooksey discussed (from horseback) the many aspects of the Kentucky Racing Commission and the changes that have been implemented this year. She was well received and answered a number of good questions. Dr. Nathan Slovis gave an in-depth demonstration of the Hagyard Equine Medical Institute Equine Ambulance with audience participation.
It was then on to the Club Lounge for lunch with John Nicholson in which he presented his vision of unity throughout the horse industry that the Kentucky Horse Park is facilitating by currently being the headquarters of 33 Equine Organizations both big and small. He pointed out that for every employee the Horse Park employees the private organizations there employ 3. He also pointed out that the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games will be viewed by some 500 Million people around the world and that for many of them this will be their first discovery of Kentucky.
John’s passion for the Kentucky Horse Park is always palpable and he summed up the role of the Kentucky Horse Park by saying he expects people to come to the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in 2010 and fall in love with Kentucky and that some of those people will then move their business’ to Kentucky. There is no question that I agree with that sentiment and that these Games are the most significant thing to happen to Kentucky since the birth of Abraham Lincoln.
After lunch we received very nice Gift bags provided by the United States Dressage Foundation that had all kinds of cool stuff in them. We then loaded onto a motorcoach sponsored by Kentucky Horse Council for a tour of the park and the ongoing construction of the new park facilities. Currently the Horse Park is booked for 3 years into the futures and there is an event going on at the Horse Park every weekend but 2. Nina Bonnie Blvd, the main East-Main thoroughfair through the Horse Park is going to be widened and will be the main pedestrian thoroughfair for the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in 2010.
We saw the new indoor arena which is well underway and scheduled to be in use by June 2009 with shows allready booked for it next summer. The arena will have seating for 7,000 with 40,000 sq ft of exhibitor space and will host the Reining and Vaulting for the Games. We then moved on to the TRF-Maker’s Mark Secretariat Center which works to re-school racehorses and find them new homes. Susanna M. Thomas is the Director of the Center and is a wonderful great advocate for this wonderful endeavor. As she put it, “Every Horse has a Story”. Our next stop was the new facilitiy under construction for the Central Kentucky Riding for Hope. Pat Cline provided us with all the good work the CKRH does and that part of the reason for their great success was the 280 active volunteers they had last year. As always I will say, here is another great cause for those of you looking to volunteer.
To finish up the day we headed over to the Combined Driving Event that is going on at the Horse Park through the weekend. On our way we past the location for the new Outdoor Stadium which is starting to take shape and is on schedule to be completed next year. It will have permanent seating for 7,500 and be expandable to hold 27,500 for the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.
I want to give a special thanks to Lisa Jackson who was a gracious host and provided a number of us rides to different area’s of the park at the end of the day. I also want to thank the sponsors which allow the Kentucky Horse Park to put on this event for no charge to the Media, I for one am greatly appreciate for this opportunity. I look forward to seeing everyone out there again next year.
Thomas
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09.25.08
Posted in 2010 Games, Announcement, Kentucky Horse Park, World Games 2010 Foundation at 9:23 pm by Thomas
Competition Schedule Set for
2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
09/22/2008
Click Here to view competition schedule
LEXINGTON, KY – Sixteen days of eight world championships are officially scheduled for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. The competition schedule was released today by the World Games 2010 Foundation.
A detailed competition schedule is now available online at www.feigames2010.org.
“This schedule is certain to provide an exciting variety of top sport on each of the 16 days of the Games”, said Competition Director Kate Jackson. “Spectators will find events of interest every day and will be entertained by the beauty and spectacle that is inherent to equestrian competition at this level”.
“I am particularly happy that we are able, for the first time, to include Para-Equestrian as an integral part of the World Equestrian Games. We are pleased and honored to do so”, Jackson said.
The Games will begin with opening ceremonies on September 25, 2010. The first weekend of competition will include Vaulting and Endurance.
The Vaulting competition will continue into week one, along with Dressage and Eventing.
In week two, Jumping, Para-Dressage, Driving and Reining will be contested. The Games will end with closing ceremonies on October 10, 2010.
“We are excited to share these details with competitors and spectators who are already making their plans to join us in Kentucky”, said Rob Hinkle, Foundation Chief Operating Officer. “We know that many local communities, businesses, volunteers and others have also been waiting for this schedule to begin making plans for 2010”.
The schedule may still experience minor changes, but no major shifts to the individual discipline schedules are expected.
The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, to be held at the Kentucky Horse, are the world championships of the eight equestrian disciplines recognized by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), and are held every four years. The Games have never been held outside of Europe; nor have all eight disciplines competed at a single site? both firsts that will be achieved at the Kentucky Horse Park.
The Games will be broadcast on NBC Sports, which has made the largest network commitment to 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 the Rolex Company and an unprecedented $10 million title sponsor, Alltech. It is anticipated that more than 600,000 tickets will be sold for the 16-day competition.
Click Here to view competition schedule
Media Contact:
Amy Walker
Office 859-255-2010 ext. 235
awalker@feigames2010.org
For more information on the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games visit www.feigames2010.org
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09.01.08
Posted in 2010 Games, Announcement, Position Statements at 9:27 pm by Thomas
Happy Labor Day, you don’t probably here that often. Labor Day is the last hurrah of the Summer and so its understandable that the idea of celebrating Labor not something we think about. I won’t even step into the conversation of Labor = Job. No I want to talk about the concept of Doing, of applying human mental and physical force to a task at hand and getting it accomplished, that is my broad definition of Labor. That can be a Labor of Love or a Labor of Need, but ultimately Doing something is at the core of us as humans, pretty much because it is at the core of survival.
So today I want to Celebrate Labor, a Labor of Love, my Labor of promoting the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games 2010, and pursuing a goal of seeing some form of the Kentucky World Equestrian Games continue past 2010 and of seeing Kentucky’s involvement in hosting a Summer Olympic Games sometime in the future, if not in my lifetime then in my son’s.
I prefess that these are honorable goals and I seek your support and Labor in seeing that we accomplish those goals for the benefit of all.
Thomas Demond
Founder
Kentucky World Equestrian Games .ORG
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