One Down!

The first test of the Kentucky Horse Park was a resounding success. The brand new Outdoor Arena was amazing. The participants were unanimous in their praise of the footing. Superior was the least of the adjectives.

Australian rider Lucinda Fredericks on Headley Britannia was the eventual victor after a flawless ride in the stadium jumping. A standing room crowd of over 16,000 watched as Bettina Hoy of Germany came in second and Buck Davidson, the only American in the top 5, on board My Boy Bobby, finished third.

The cross-country element on Saturday saw more than 40,000 spectators on a near perfect day.

19 International Federations were on hand to witness how the KHP fared for this first event in the new stadium. If you ask me, they passed with flying colors!

Ready, Set, Go!

Keeneland's spring meet ends on Friday. That means the Rolex Three Day Event,the only 4 Star equestrian event in North America, starts Thursday and the new outdoor arena gets dedicated on Wednesday afternoon. Wow, what a week.
We were given a private tour of the new Outdoor Arena and the new Indoor Arena last week and The Bluegrass and the entire Commonwealth should be very proud. They are spectacular to say the least. I am sure the total investment in the park sounds excessive but we will be reaping the benefits for years. This isn't just about the world Equestrian Games, its about a legacy. But in the meantime-go to Rolex-you've got to be there!