08.12.10
Posted in 2010 Games, World Equestrian Games at 10:36 pm by Press Release
LEXINGTON, KY—The YMCA of Central Kentucky joins the World Games 2010 Foundation in welcoming guests from around the world during the 16 days of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, by providing facilities to athletes and guests who want to stay active during their visit.
Any person attending or participating in the Games will be allowed free guest access to the Y’s facility branches, which include Beaumont Centre Family Y, High Street Y, and North Lexington Family Y, for the duration of the Games.
“With YMCA’s located in 124 countries worldwide, this is a great opportunity for our association to welcome the world to our community,” said Jim Kelsey, marketing and communications director for the YMCA of Central Kentucky. “We’re excited to welcome new friends from all over the world while continuing to serve this community.”
The Y has been serving the Lexington community since 1853, and is a non-profit, volunteer organization with a mission to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.
The branch facilities of the YMCA of Central Kentucky vary slightly but all of them feature state-of-the-art workout amenities including free weights, cardio equipment, group exercise classes, aquatic facilities, locker rooms with showers and more.
To gain free entry to any of the facility branches during the Games, athletes or visitors just have to show their World Equestrian Games pass or ticket to Y staff upon entering the facility. There is no limit to how many times a guest can use the facilities, and even Lexington residents attending the Games are allowed access.
For more information about the YMCA of Central Kentucky and to view the location and details of each facility branch, click here.
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08.04.10
Posted in 2010 Games, Sponsors, World Equestrian Games at 2:16 pm by Press Release
LEXINGTON, KY—51 DAYS TO GO—AT&T* will provide wireless service and devices to the World Games 2010 Foundation as the Official Wireless Service Provider of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.
2010 Games will feature eight world championships of equestrian sport and are being held for the first time in the United States from September 25-October 10 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Ky.
In addition to providing wireless services prior to and during the 16-day event, AT&T will also be leasing the Foundation Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) Cards to be used as GPS tracking devices placed on the horses for the Endurance event. This is the first time in the history of the World Equestrian Games where Endurance athletes will be tracked using GPS throughout the 160 km competition.
“With GPS tracking devices for the Endurance competition, we are changing the way this sport is followed,” said Emmett Ross, Discipline Manager for the Endurance World Championship. “This is the first time any World Equestrian Games has individually tracked each competitor in this way, and we hope that this will also make Endurance more spectator-friendly during the 2010 Games.”
AT&T is also enhancing its Lexington network to help ensure those in town to attend the 2010 Games have a winning wireless experience. AT&T is expanding capacity and coverage surrounding the Kentucky Horse Park and other key areas in anticipation of increased voice and data traffic on its wireless network.
Overall network preparations include:
- Third additional layer of capacity added to AT&T cell sites surrounding the Kentucky Horse Park: 2G (GSM/Global System for Mobile Communications) voice and data capacity increased by 100 percent and high-speed 3G (UMTS/Universal Mobile Telecommunications System) voice and data capacity increased by 280 percent.
- The addition of backhaul connectivity to cell sites surrounding the Kentucky Horse Park to increase voice and data capacity between the sites and the routing switch.
- Three mobile cell sites on wheels (COWs) which boost network capacity.
- Capacity added to cell sites in the vicinity of Kentucky Horse Park.
- The addition of backhaul connectivity to cell sites surrounding the stadium to increase voice and data capacity between the sites and the routing switch.
- An additional new 3G cell site at the Horse Park that will boost wireless services for those attending the Games.
“This is an exciting 16 days of equestrian events and folks want to capture these experiences, as they are happening, whether its through a voice call, text message, e-mail or picture or video message,” said Jim Thorpe, vice president and general manager, AT&T Mobility & Consumer Markets for Tennessee and Kentucky. “Our network team has been working for months to deliver the best possible wireless experience for the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.”
“We’ll continue to strengthen our wireless network performance so that our customers can have the best experience with their AT&T devices,” said Mary Pat Regan, president, AT&T Kentucky. “Our network investments and upgrades have made it possible for us to continue to deliver the nation’s fastest 3G network.”
AT&T operates 30 AT&T-owned retail locations in Kentucky. Its products and services are also available at a number of other authorized dealers and national retail locations. For the complete array of AT&T offerings, visit www.att.com.
*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.
About AT&T
AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) is a premier communications holding company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates – AT&T operating companies – are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. With a powerful array of network resources that includes the nation’s fastest 3G network, AT&T is a leading provider of wireless, Wi-Fi, high speed Internet and voice services. A leader in mobile broadband, AT&T also offers the best wireless coverage worldwide, offering the most wireless phones that work in the most countries. It also offers advanced TV services under the AT&T U-verse® and AT&T ?DIRECTV brands. The company’s suite of IP-based business communications services is one of the most advanced in the world. In domestic markets, AT&T Advertising Solutions and AT&T Interactive are known for their leadership in local search and advertising. In 2010, AT&T again ranked among the 50 Most Admired Companies by FORTUNE® magazine.
Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com. This AT&T news release and other announcements are available at http://www.att.com/newsroom and as part of an RSS feed at www.att.com/rss. Or follow our news on Twitter at @ATTNews. Find us on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ATT to discover more about our consumer and wireless services or at www.Facebook.com/ATTSmallBiz to discover more about our small business services.
© 2010 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. 3G service not available in all areas. AT&T, the AT&T logo and all other marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies.
Web Site Links:
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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). The Games are held every four years and this will be the first occurrence in the United States. Tickets to the 2010 Games are still available and can be purchased at www.alltechfeigames.com/tickets, at www.ticketmaster.com, through the Ticketmaster hotline at 1-800-745-3000, or at your local Ticketmaster outlet.
The Games will be broadcast on NBC Sports, which marks 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 $167 million, and current sponsors include Alltech, Rolex, John Deere, Ariat International, Inc., Meydan, Kentucky Ale, and UK Healthcare. For more information on the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games please visit, www.alltechfeigames.com.
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08.02.10
Posted in 2010 Games, Preperations, Volunteer Training, Volunteerism, World Equestrian Games at 9:58 pm by Thomas
Attended my Volunteer Training Initiation tonight and if you didn’t guess from the title it went very well. Tonights meeting was conducted by ESCO Security Consulting , which is managing the security operations for the Games, as a meet and greet for them to interview the volunteers. ESCO’s staff was very professional and left me with a very good feeling when it comes to the security operations for the Games. The magic I often speak of in relation to the Games was certainly present in the room both among the volunteers and the staff which for me is a great environment to be in. I have given an initial commitment of 10 days, possibly 11 maybe 12 if need be because I do believe I can make a difference during these Games as I believe I have made a difference in how these Games go off. There are still volunteer opportunities available for the Games and certainly for anyone who maybe still on the fence, and I know you are out there, I would ask that you consider stepping down off that fence especially if you are a Kentuckian. I know the negative publicity that is out there about the Games, but I can say with certainty that the true legacy that these Games leave behind after October 1oth will be long lasting and will not be defined by the revenue generated during that short 16 day period.
Proud to be a Kentuckian,
Kentucky Colonel
Thomas Paul Demond
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07.23.10
Posted in 2010 Games, Combined Driving, Construction Status, World Equestrian Games at 7:51 am by Press Release
The driving course designer for the upcoming Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, Richard Nicoll, was recently on the grounds of the Kentucky Horse Park for several days to work with the course builder, meet with various decorators, and generally check on the progress of the marathon obstacles.
According to Nicoll, construction is now about ninety-five percent complete on the marathon obstacles. Once everything is finished, all that will remain is the decorating. Some of this will need to be completed at the last minute because two obstacles contain portable elements that will be moved into place after the eventing cross-country phase (on the first Saturday during the WEG).
After his meeting with the decorators, Nicoll was pleased to note how enthusiastic and, with the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event having been at the KY Horse Park for so many years, how experienced they are. He expects that spectators familiar with driving, and those new to the sport, will be wowed by the beauty of the course.
The drivers themselves may not appreciate the beauty of the obstacles to the same degree that the spectators will, but they will have their own beautiful views earlier in the day. While he was here, Nicoll inspected the course he had laid out for Sections A and D of the marathon. The track does not just go “round and round a field,” as he said, but follows roads, pathways, and pastures through several working farms adjoining the Kentucky Horse Park. So the drivers will get a unique view of some truly beautiful Kentucky countryside and farmland.
Nicoll says that he’s “very encouraged and excited about all the progress that’s been made at the Horse Park.” And he encourages everyone to come out on Saturday, October 9, to watch the driving marathon, if for no other reason than this is probably the only time in our lifetimes that we’ll be able to see so many FEI-level four-in-hand drivers in one North American location. Nicoll recalled how, after the 1993 World Pairs Championship in New Jersey, a number of people said they had heard how wonderful the championship was and how much they regretted having missed it.
“This time around, don’t be someone who regrets not having come to see the driving championship. This is going to be too good to miss!”
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07.12.10
Posted in 2010 Games, Sponsors, Suppliers, World Equestrian Games at 8:08 pm by Press Release
LEXINGTON, KY—74 days to go—Lynn Imaging’s Monster Color, a manufacturer, printer and installer of large format signage and advertising graphics has been named the Official Signage and Graphics Sponsor for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.
The Monster Color division will bring full-color stadium graphics and full-color signage to the 16-day world championship event held at Lexington’s Kentucky Horse Park September 25-October 10.
“We are excited that Lynn Imaging has partnered with us,” say Terry Johnson, VP of Sales and Marketing for the World Games 2010 Foundation. “Their involvement is vital to our success and the fact they are a local company makes the relationship that much more special for us.”
In addition to providing full color graphics and signage, Monster Color will provide signage and promotional printing needs to all sponsors and participating partners using a customized website developed especially for the 2010 Games by Lynn Imaging.
“For over sixty years we have been providing quality printing to the Commonwealth of Kentucky. We have expanded these services to large format color and digital services while maintaining the foundation of customer service that our family owned business was built on,” said J.L. Lynn, C.E.O. of Monster Color. “Recent expansion into the Ohio market with the opening of two new stores in Cincinnati allows us to service our regional clientele better. Being named the signage and large format graphics provider for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games is both an honor and privilege.”
About Lynn Imaging / Monster Color
Lynn Imaging’s Monster Color is a locally owned and operated business that is completely dedicated to large and small format color printing needs. With locations in Lexington, Frankfort, Louisville, Cincinnati and West Chester we are better able to service our regional business clientele. Most notably, Lynn Imaging maintains the value system that it was built on in 1946. Lynn Imaging employees are loyal to their customers, and work to provide superior customer service. Each member of the sales team, executive committee and managers working at Lynn Imaging average over twenty years of experience with the company. This unique team carries knowledge of the industry, and insight into customer needs which translates to peace of mind for their clients. As a proud sponsor of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, we are also offering all sponsors the opportunity to brand their business with the World Games by ordering through a customized website www.2010gamespromo.com. More information available on our website www.lynnimagingmonster.com
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07.08.10
Posted in 2010 Games, Suppliers, World Equestrian Games at 6:20 pm by Press Release
LEXINGTON, KY – 78 Days to Go—Understanding the importance of a good cup of coffee, Royal Cup Coffee will provide all coffee and tea products to be served during the 16 days of the Games as the Official Coffee Supplier to the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.
The Games feature eight world championships in equestrian sport and will be held September 25-October 10 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Ky.
“We are excited for Royal Cup to join the 2010 Games family,” stated Terry Johnson, VP of Sales and Marketing for the Games. “Our food and beverage program is very important to the overall success of the Games and serving Royal Cup products will provide the high level of quality we demand for our spectators.”
Royal Cup Coffee has grown from its small, hometown roots in Birmingham, Ala., to become a major importer, roaster, and distributor of premium coffees and teas. Serving customers in the food service, office and specialty coffee markets, Royal Cup now reaches markets throughout the United States, into Mexico and the Caribbean including Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, IHOP, La Madeleine French Bakery & Café, Outback Steakhouse, Peabody Hotels, Red Lobster, The Ritz-Carlton, Sea World, Sea Island Resorts, and Hilton Hotels.
“Royal Cup Coffee is proud to be associated with the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games,” said Ben Pitts, Vice President of Food Service and Hospitality for Royal Cup Coffee. “We know the participants and patrons of the Games have very high standards, so we are thrilled to have been selected. We are excited also about our long term partnership with Kentucky and the Kentucky Horse Park, and look forward to supporting a high quality food and beverage experience for their visitors.”
About Royal Cup
Royal Cup’s commitment to quality products begins with the purchase of only the finest coffees from around the world. Only the coffees that meet their rigorous requirements will be roasted using the latest technology available. The result is the best coffees the world has to offer.
“Sustainability” is the buzz word in the coffee industry today, and Royal Cup, is committed to aligning with partners in the business who do the “right thing.” Royal Cup contributes on a regular basis to Coffee Kids, Women in Coffee, and other U. S. based organizations that focus on people development in the producing countries.
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07.07.10
Posted in 2010 Games, Suppliers, Vendor Spotlight, World Equestrian Games at 11:15 pm by Press Release
LEXINGTON, KY—79 days to go—Patina Restaurant Group, a bi-coastal boutique catering company, will be providing first-class catering for a world-class hospitality program at the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.
The 2010 Games will feature eight world championships in equestrian sport and are being held for the first time in the United States from September 25-Ocotober 10 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Ky.
As the Official Food Provider for the Hospitality Program of the 2010 Games, Patina will provide food for Hospitality offerings at each venue, in addition to the James Beard Celebrity Chef Dinner Series, at the Kentucky Horse Park Foundation’s Farmhouse.
“I am extremely excited that we’ve selected Patina Restaurant Group to be our exclusive caterer for the hospitality program for the 2010 Games,” said Kim Bennett, Director of Hospitality Programs for the World Games 2010 Foundation. “Their quality, presentation, and service of food are unparallel to anyone else in the premium segment of the food service industries. I’m positive that we will provide a world-class hospitality program and partnering with Patina Restaurant Group elevates that expectation.”
Patina’s Sports & Entertainment division has unique experience with major sports arenas, such as Arvest Ballpark, and a broad array of entertainment and performing arts venues. Past successes include the US Open Tennis Championships, the 2002 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in Salt Lake City, and the 2004 Breeder’s Cup, among others.
“We are proud to be the caterer for the 2010 Games – which provides the challenge of preparing food to a mix of athletes, spectators, sponsors and VIPs,” said Nick Valenti, Restaurateur and longtime PRG CEO.
“PRG’s Chef and Founder, Joachim Splichal, will be hosting and cooking for one of the exclusive James Beard nights,” Valenti continued. “We will pay homage to local Kentucky farmers and foods at the September 30th dinner while presenting our signature Patina culinary style.”
About Patina Restaurant Group
Patina Restaurant Group (www.patinagroup.com), a bi-coastal boutique company, is a leader in the premium segment of the restaurant industry. On the East Coast, its portfolio features New York City’s world-famous Rockefeller Center Ice Rink, Rock Center Café, The Sea Grill, Brasserie, Brasserie 8 1/2, Café Centro, Naples 45, The Grand Tier Restaurant at the Metropolitan Opera and La Fonda Del Sol. Other East Coast properties include Tutto Italia Ristorante at the Epcot World Showcase in Orlando, FL.
On the West Coast the portfolio includes the renowned, Michelin-starred Patina Restaurant in Walt Disney Concert Hall, Nick & Stef’s Steakhouse, Café Pinot at the Maguire Gardens, Zucca Ristorante, Pinot Bistro, Catal and three other restaurants in Anaheim’s Downtown Disney District®, Leatherby’s Cafe Rouge at the Orange County Performing Arts Center, Pinot Brasserie in Las Vegas and catering and food service in museums and cultural centers throughout California.
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). 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., Meydan and UK Healthcare. For more information on the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, please visit www.alltechfeigames.com.
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07.02.10
Posted in Attractions, Louisville at 11:17 pm by Thomas
Going to take some time over the next couple of weeks prior to the Games to talk about some other attractions to see for people coming to our Wonderful Commonwealth for the first time. Today I am going to talk about the Louisville Zoo which is easy to do because we spent the day there. We try to go at least once, usually at the same time we are in Louisville for the Kentucky State Fair, I wish the Games had been earlier so that those coming could of had the opportunity to visit our Fair which is one of the largest in the World but I digress.
I do not know exactly how the Louisville Zoo ranks with other zoos around the world, but we had a thoroughly enjoyable day there. The zoo just opened a new habitat for the seals and sea lions as part of the build out of their new Glacier Bay area which will be fully opened by next Spring and will house the new Polar Bear habitat which looks pretty cool (no pun intended) from what has been completed up to this point. The zoo also had the good fortune of having a baby Giraffe born this year and he is a site to see.
Another new exhibit this year is a Dinosaur walk which I recommend, though it is an additional $5 per person for non zoo members but I think its worth it. The exhibit is 16 life size robotic Dinosaurs in a very natural setting that may cause you to pause before you walk up closer to them to be sure you haven’t been transported back in time.
The zoo is less then an hour and a half drive from Lexington via I-64 and for all the latest information and exact directions check out their website at http://www.louisvillezoo.org/ .
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06.24.10
Posted in 2010 Games, Sponsors, World Equestrian Games at 10:44 pm by Thomas
LEXINGTON, KY – 92 Days to Go – Sound-Eklin, Inc., the leading provider of digital radiography, ultrasound, PACS (Picture Archiving and Communications Systems) for veterinary care, has signed on as the Official Veterinary Diagnostic Equipment Sponsor of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.
Sound-Eklin will provide all veterinary diagnostic imaging equipment, including ultrasound and digital radiography equipment, to the World Equestrian Games Veterinary Clinic. Sound-Eklin will also provide technical support of equipment for the Veterinary Diagnostic Center.
“Sound-Eklin’s contribution of digital radiography and ultrasound equipment will allow for world-class veterinary care in the World Equestrian Games Veterinary Clinic,” said Kate Jackson, Vice President of Competition for the World Games 2010 Foundation.
“Sound-Eklin is positioned to improve veterinary patient care worldwide, by providing customer driven solutions that exceed the radiographic imaging needs of all practice types,” noted Greg Stoutenburgh, VP of Marketing for Sound-Eklin.
About Sound-Eklin
Based in Carlsbad, CA, Sound-Eklin produces the most widely accepted and used digital radiography and PACS systems in the veterinary industry. Sound-Eklin is the industry leader in digital radiography, ultrasound and education. Sound-Eklin’s mission is to simplify and advance veterinary medicine through diagnostic imaging. Sound-Eklin is a division of VCA ANTECH, INC. (NASD:WOOF).
To contact Sound-Eklin, call 1-800-268-5354 or visit www.soundeklin.com.
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Posted in 2010 Games, Logistics, World Equestrian Games at 12:01 am by Thomas
LEXINGTON, KY—93 Days to Go—Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games spectators will have a variety of parking and transportation options, including hotel shuttles and on-site parking, for the 16 days of the event.
With the recent availability of property adjacent to the Kentucky Horse Park, parking for 10,000 vehicles each day is now possible on-site. Parking will be $20 per vehicle with cash only accepted upon entry. A limited number of premium parking spaces near the spectator entry, with pass-out parking privileges, are also available for $100 per day at www.alltechfeigames.com.
Nine hotel shuttle routes will be implemented for Games spectators, providing a door-to-door transportation service for selected hotels. Spectators who have arranged accommodations through the Games Housing Bureau for the selected hotels, located in Lexington, Georgetown and Frankfort, will be emailed a direct link on or before July 6 with the opportunity to pre-purchase hotel shuttle wristbands online for $5 before August 1. After August 1, the shuttle wristbands will be $10 for Housing Bureau guests. During the Games, wristbands can be purchased for $15, subject to availability. Wristbands are date specific and valid for one day’s round trip transport to the Kentucky Horse Park and are non-transferable. A list of hotels on the shuttle routes will be available on the Spectator Information page of the Games website by July 6.
Buses equipped with ADA seating will be operating on all hotel shuttle systems, and mobility shuttles will be stationed in the on-site parking lots for those who need assistance from designated ADA parking areas.
In addition, taxi cabs and Gold Shield Car Services will be available to transport spectators to the main entrance of the Games at the Kentucky Horse Park. LexTran, the City of Lexington’s public transportation system, will also have roundtrip bus service to the Kentucky Horse Park for $5 per passenger, with parking near Lextran’s Vine Street terminal in downtown Lexington.
“We feel these parking and transportation options provide maximum flexibility and value for our spectators,” said Games CEO Jamie Link. “We expect thousands of people will visit the park each day and our goal is that everyone arrives in a safe and efficient manner, ready to enjoy a great day at the Games.”
Detailed information on transportation services, including directions to on-site parking, hotel shuttle routes, and information for local commuters whose daily routes may be impacted by event traffic will be available soon at www.alltechfeigames.com.
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06.23.10
Posted in 2010 Games, Opening Ceremonies, World Equestrian Games at 12:02 am by Thomas
Lexington, Ky.—American Thoroughbred racing Hall of Fame jockey and founder of the North American Racing Academy, Chris McCarron, will participate in the Opening Ceremonies of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games on Sept. 25.
Along with a group of his NARA students, McCarron will be representing Thoroughbred racing in the Opening Ceremonies.
“It is a tremendous honor for us to be selected as representing the Thoroughbred industry,” McCarron said, “because it is a huge part of Kentucky’s agricultural landscape.”
McCarron has been a part of the Thoroughbred industry most of his life. The now 55-year-old started his first job when he was 16, hot walking horses. After graduating high school, McCarron continued working with horses at Suffolk Downs and rode in his first race when he was 18 years old.
During his 28 year professional career, McCarron won many prestigious races including the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes, all twice. McCarron also had nine Breeders’ Cup victories and was the first jockey in history to reach the $200 million earnings mark.
Once McCarron retired, he put his energies toward creating the North American Racing Academy. Located in Lexington, the NARA is the only fully accredited training program for jockeys and horseman in the United States. McCarron established the school to prepare students for life on and off the track.
“It has turned out very well,” McCarron said about the Academy. “It is satisfying and gratifying. The students have won over 370 races in the last year and a half.”
Although he is used to performing in front of such large audiences, McCarron said there will still be a huge amount of adrenalin going through his body before the Ceremonies. McCarron said he expects his students will also be excited about participating in the Ceremonies.
“Having Chris and his group of aspiring students involved in the Opening Ceremonies is tremendous,” said Everett McCorvey, executive producer of the Opening and Closing Ceremonies. “The Thoroughbred breed, in addition to other breeds in the Ceremonies, is part of the Kentucky landscape that we know audience members will enjoy seeing.”
Chris McCarron is one of many equine entertainers involved in the Ceremonies for the 2010 Games. Over 200 horses are slated for the Opening Ceremonies alone. In addition to the equine component, the “human” component includes orchestra, choir, dancers, headline musicians, movement corps of hundreds of adults and children, as well as local and international celebrities and dignitaries.
To purchase tickets for the Opening Ceremonies click here.
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Posted in Suppliers at 12:01 am by Thomas
LEXINGTON, Ky. — Smithfield Packing Company, Inc., one of America’s largest meat companies, will contribute a new flavor of southern hospitality to the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. As the Official Protein Supplier of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, Smithfield will provide protein products to food service operators during the 2010 Games.
“We are excited to announce Smithfield as the Official Protein Supplier of the 2010 Games,” said Terry Johnson, vice president of marketing and sales for the Foundation. “Smithfield’s quality line of protein products provides a valuable resource to our catering and concessions operations during the Games.”
The Smithfield Packing Company, Inc. is comprised of eight brands for retail, foodservice and deli channels. The company exports products to approximately 30 countries to over ten different regions in the world.
“We are delighted to be a part of this international event bringing our premium products with global appeal and versatility,” said Dennis Pittman, director of corporate communications.
About Smithfield Foods (www.smithfieldfoods.com)
Headquartered in Smithfield, Virginia, Smithfield Foods is a global food company with operations in 13 countries through wholly-owned subsidiaries and joint ventures. The company employs more than 57,000 people across the globe with sales of $12 billion. For more information, visit www.smithfieldfoods.com.
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06.22.10
Posted in My Thoughts, Position Statements at 12:24 am by Thomas
There has been some news lately that tends to suggest that the Games will not be all that we were sold and the truth is there is some truth to that both to the negative and to the positive. On the negative, ticket sales and hotel occupancy continue to lag indicating that the likelihood of having 400,000 visitors to the Games, the number that I believed to be a realistic ballpark figure after the Aachen Games, in serious doubt. That of course puts the financial numbers in doubt as well which of course is going to be the final determination on whether the Games are successful or not.
I for one don’t believe that, but today was a tough day because I began to doubt myself on why I believe in these Games because of that possibility that the Games will be perceived as failure if we don’t hit some magic number of visitors. The problem with self-doubt is that it tends to feed on itself and by the end of the day I had to wonder if I was crazy (and not in a good way) and had wasted the last 4 1/2 years trying to promote these Games and I should just cut my losses and walk away.
Truth be told, there is still a part of me that feels that way, its part of believing in something so much that you have to sometimes ask yourself that question, what if that belief is wrong and if that belief is wrong then is what I believe in myself wrong. I have asked myself that question today and the answer is NO, I am not wrong for believing in myself in believing that the importance of these Games to Kentucky and to the people who attend these Games is something that nobody will understand until the Games have come and past. The importance of these Games can not be measured in the dollars spent but in the human interactions that occur because of them. The total number of people that come to the Games is not as important as how many of those people return home and tell their friends and family about the experiences they came away with and for those of us still here afterwards we will feel it to.
I am very thankful for Dr. Lyons having committed the financial resources of Alltech and his personal belief to see these Games be successful and in that I am happy to call these Games, The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games and as a Kentuckian I am Proud to call them The Kentucky World Equestrian Games because they are our Games and on October 11th and for a long time afterwards the spirit that is Kentucky will spread around the world and much good will come from it.
One final note, my self-doubt went away when I realized that no matter what happens, when I wake up on October 11th I am still going to be a Kentuckian and there is so much to be thankful for in being a Kentuckian and so much to be thankful for in my family and friends who have been supportive in my efforts.
Kentucky Colonel
Thomas Demond
KyWEGO
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06.21.10
Posted in Preperations at 9:26 pm by Thomas
Construction Begins with Temporary Seating at Outdoor Stadium
LEXINGTON, KY—95 Days To Go—The build-out for the 2010 Games has officially begun, and trucks carrying temporary seating and other structures dot the Kentucky Horse Park grounds as workers unload materials and prepare to begin construction.
“These guys will probably be here until September,” said Sean Doane, venue manager for the World Games 2010 Foundation.
Workers will begin erecting temporary seating today beginning with Stands A and C, which line the left and right sides of the Outdoor Stadium. Both stands are expected take 12-13 days each to complete.
Stand B, the other temporary seating structure at the Outdoor Stadium, will run along the back of the stadium but cannot be built until late July because of other events at the Horse Park. This is the largest of the three stands and will take approximately 20 days to complete.
“The Kentucky Horse Park hosts many events throughout the summer, and we are doing our best not to disturb their annual schedule for as long as we can,” Doane said.
In addition to temporary seating, temporary structures, such as office trailers, are also arriving at the Park. Excavators are currently working to flatten land so these structures can be placed.
Later this summer, exhibit tents for the Equine Village will be placed, and in August, work begins in earnest, with media, hospitality and trade show structures going up, along with the completion of two completely temporary competition venues.
Check back for updates and photos as the build-out continues.
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Posted in Opening Ceremonies at 9:23 pm by Thomas
LEXINGTON, KY—97 Days to go—A collaboration of equine entertainers and roping experts are bringing their talents to the Opening Ceremonies at the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games on Sept. 25. This group will represent the many traditions of Western riding in the United States.
The performers include Vince Bruce, Eitan Beth-Halachmy, Double Dan Horsemanship, Tommie Turvey, the California Cowgirls and the Riata Ranch Cowboy Girls. Together the group shares a common theme, but they will each add their own flair to this section of the Opening Ceremonies.
Vince Bruce, also known as the “Wizard of Whips and Ropes,” has been twirling ropes in front of audiences since he was 12 years old. Bruce has been in circuses, performed with the Harlem Globetrotters and starred in the Broadway show “The Will Rogers’ Follies.”
Bruce said he is excited about performing with friends and creating something spectacular for the Opening Ceremonies. A native of England, Bruce said “This (the U.S.) is the home of Western entertainment.”
Eitan Beth-Halachmy will add to the performance with his Cowboy Dressage style of riding. Beth-Halachmy developed Cowboy Dressage from a mixture of several training styles including Dressage, which he calls his discipline, and Western, which he calls his fun.
“I am going to have the opportunity to entertain, give others an idea of what I do, and show them how to have fun riding a horse,” Beth-Halachmy said about coming to the Games.
Dan James of Australia is one of the two “Dans” behind Double Dan Horsemanship. James, who grew up riding horses Down Under eventually partnered with Dan Steers to create a powerhouse of entertainment and equine training that includes clinics and performances across the globe.
Also known for entertaining is Tommie Turvey, an equine extremist who performs tricks and stunts for audiences across America. Turvey grew up with a passion for horses but never really wanted to compete. Instead, he followed in his father’s footsteps and used his natural riding abilities and class clown tendencies to create a niche in equine entertainment.
“It is nice to have people from around the world come to the United States,” Turvey said about the Games. “I can represent what we do here and say ‘Hey! American cowboys are pretty good horse trainers too.’”
And it’s not just cowboys; there are plenty of female riding entertainers in the mix. The California Cowgirls, an equestrian drill team from Wilton, California, will perform complex drill routines while decked out in their signature costumes. They ride American Paints, Appaloosas and Quarter Horses.
“We always love to perform,” said Sara Curtis, captain of the California Cowgirls. “We are looking forward to the grandeur and magnitude of the whole event.”
And last, but certainly not least, are the Riata Ranch Cowboy Girls, a group of ladies known around the world for their roping and trick riding. Jennifer Welch Nicholson, executive director of Riata Ranch, conducts clinics to not only teach people about western riding but also about life skills such as confidence, physical fitness and self expression.
“This group of talented equine performers, precision riders, and western roping professionals will have the audience on their feet,” said Dr. Everett McCorvey, executive director of the Opening Ceremonies. “It’s a producer’s dream to present ‘wow’ moments throughout a show, and create something that the audience won’t soon forget.”
This group represents just one part of the Opening Ceremonies, which will include over 200 horses. In addition to the equine component, the “human” component includes orchestra, choir, dancers, headline musicians, movement corps of hundreds of adults and children, as well as local and international celebrities and dignitaries.
Tickets for the Opening Ceremonies are still available. For more information about purchasing tickets click here.
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06.18.10
Posted in Fortnight Festival, Kentucky, Lexington at 8:47 pm by Thomas
LEXINGTON, KY—June 18, 2010—The 100 Days to Go Celebration for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games was a hit June 17, and the Fifth Third Pavilion in downtown Lexington drew in hundreds of fans, residents and passersby to help celebrate the occasion.
“It was excellent,” said Diana Simpson, a resident of Lexington, about the celebration. “The speakers were great and there is a lot of enthusiasm. They are making it exciting.”
Those, like Simpson, who came downtown to celebrate, were able to preview some of the festivities that will be a part of the 2010 Games. Walking through the pavilion, visitors were able to grab themselves some Kentucky Ale; see pottery being made; view a Corvette inside and out; taste food from France, the host of the 2014 Games; eat free Dippin’ Dots ice cream and even pet a penguin.
In addition to booths, the celebration featured a fashion show showcasing 2010 Games Ariat apparel, a book signing by Jon Carloftis, world-renowned gardener, for his book “Beautiful Gardens of Kentucky,” and Alltech’s announcement of the line-up for the Alltech Fortnight Festival, a 16-day concert series to take place in venues around the state during the Games. (http://www.alltechfortnightfestival.com/en/pages/default.aspx)
WLEX-18 anchor Nancy Cox emceed the festivities and both she and First Lady Jane Beshear sported 2010 Games apparel on stage during the fashion show. Mrs. Beshear spoke to the crowd about how excited she is to have the Games come to Kentucky, and how Kentucky will benefit from the Games.
“It makes it a little more real that it (the Games) is impending,” said Lauren Howard, of Lexington, about the celebration. “I’ve been watching the (countdown) signs but this is a little more exciting.”
Howard, who brought her two children Tag and Noah, said she is sure she will be buying tickets and added that the celebration was a nice environment for the little ones.
The celebration featured many of the Games partners and sponsors including Alltech’s Kentucky Ale, Alltech Angus, The Kentucky Experience, Newport Aquarium, the Kentucky Horse Park, Ariat, Dippin’ Dots, Corvette and more. In addition, posters listing 100 reasons to attend the Games, brochures and ticketing information were provided.
As the festivities came to a close, so did one more day in the countdown to the Games. And with the 100 Days to Go celebration serving as just a taste of what the actual Games will be like, don’t be left without a ticket, click here to buy yours now.
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