TheHorse.com
by: Marsha Hayes
September 25 2010, Article # 17009
Cutting-edge GPS technology will provide real-time tracking of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games (WEG) Endurance competitors as they race tomorrow in Lexington, Ky.
"Anyone with a laptop will be able to track the horses, at the event, or at home, around the world," explained Emmett Ross, endurance discipline manager for WEG. Ross also noted the system will be in place in the staging area to alert crews when their horses are coming into a vet check and allow them to adjust race strategy based on knowing competitors' positions.
For equine enthusiasts on site at the Kentucky Horse Park, several large viewing screens will be stationed around the park in the trade show and hospitality areas, and perhaps other sites to enhance viewing of the lengthy WEG event, projected to last around eight hours.
Announcements will also be broadcast on site alerting spectators when horses will be arriving in the vet-check staging area.
The GPS system initially will be set to "ping" or update data every 30 seconds. Ross plans to lower the update rate to six seconds near the finish, where at that time, "You will be able to really see that little icon move along."
Because the Kentucky course does not allow spectators on the trails, public roads, or private lands where horses are competing, "This system will be a way to allow everybody to view the event," said Ross.
Swipe cards will also be added to enhance efficiency at the games. According to Becky Hart, chef d'equipe of endurance Team USA, the cards have been used in the Middle East and Europe and furnish valuable time-tracking data to crews and event veterinarians. Ross also noted a back-up system is in place, should electricity fail.
When a horse comes into a vet check, a crew member swipes that rider's card which records that horse's number, team, and logs the time of when the horse entered vet check. When the horse is presented to the vet to determine if his or her heart rate has dropped to the required rate to allow the horse to continue, the card is swiped again. After a set number of horses have swiped a computer printout is generated.
Because the time between check in and pulse down can be indicative of a horse's fatigue, Hart explained print-out access allowed one to, "keep an eye on the competition" by watching for an increase in pulse-down time. "It also allows me to keep track of each loop time, for my team and [their] competitors," Hart continued.
According to Ross, the computer print-outs assist event-monitoring veterinarians in awarding Best Conditioned awards by providing a summary of pulse-down times over the 100 mile race. Soundness after the event will also be keenly scrutinized, but the swipe card's fast, accurate analysis of each horse’s pulse rate data is a valuable veterinary analysis tool.
During the vet checks, hand-held heart rate monitors will connect to large viewing screens, allowing spectators to see for themselves the equine athlete’s moment of reaching the criteria needed to start another loop.
Full article at http://www.thehorse.com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=17009&source=rss&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TheHorse%2FNews+%28TheHorse.com+-+News%29
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Friday, September 24, 2010
UAE: Dubai royals in medal bid
http://www.thenational.ae/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20100925/SPORT/100929812/1004
Geoffrey Riddle
September 24
photo: Sheikh Mohammed, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, will lead his sons in a five-man team over a 160km endurance course. Awad Awad / AFP
The Dubai royal family will bid to cement the UAE’s position at the top of the endurance riding field this afternoon when they compete on the second day the 2010 World Equestrian Games at Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, leads his sons Sheikh Hamdan and Sheikh Majid in a five-man team that will compete against 29 other nations over the challenging, 160km endurance course. Sheikh Rashid Dalmouk Al Maktoum and Ali Mohammed al Muhairi make up the rest of the side.
Sheikh Mohammed led home his sons when they won the Stars Challenge race at Austin Park in England on July 25, a success that makes the region favourites to win the punishing race.
“The team have prepared as best they can,” said Mohammed Essa, the assistant team manager.
“The Americans, France and Spain are probably our major rivals. They are the strongest three teams in a very strong field. The reason that we are here is to win and if they ride as best they can then we can do it.”
The race, sponsored by Meydan Racecourse, consists of six loops of varying distances, with each loop starting and finishing at the compound’s Forego Polo Field.
All riders start at the same time, and there are five mandatory veterinary stops.
The winner is judged by completing the course in the shortest time, which is likely to be around the 12-hour mark.
Endurance riding is the ultimate test of speed and stamina for a racehorse and jockey combination, as it requires the riders to understand their mount’s abilities.
“The course is hard,” Essa said. “They have put in obstacles, tunnels and rivers. It is very challenging, and it makes it so important to make the right move at the right time.”
The ruler of Dubai, who rides Arcadienne, has not raced competitively since his victory in England, but Essa does not believe that to be a problem.
“From the end of July he has just been preparing himself, not necessarily just for this event, but for the rest of the year.
“He loves the horses and the sport. He is totally in touch with all the best practices and training methods. Sheikh Hamdan is the same. It’s in his blood after all.”
Due to the hardy nature of the breed, the majority of competitors, including the UAE, will race on pure-bred Arabians. The rest will challenge on Anglo-Arabs, which are half thoroughbred on the distaff side, and half Arabian.
The Games run until October 10, during which time 54 national federations will compete in eight equestrian disciplines, including dressage, driving, eventing, jumping, reining and vaulting.
sports@thenational.ae
Geoffrey Riddle
September 24
The Dubai royal family will bid to cement the UAE’s position at the top of the endurance riding field this afternoon when they compete on the second day the 2010 World Equestrian Games at Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, leads his sons Sheikh Hamdan and Sheikh Majid in a five-man team that will compete against 29 other nations over the challenging, 160km endurance course. Sheikh Rashid Dalmouk Al Maktoum and Ali Mohammed al Muhairi make up the rest of the side.
Sheikh Mohammed led home his sons when they won the Stars Challenge race at Austin Park in England on July 25, a success that makes the region favourites to win the punishing race.
“The team have prepared as best they can,” said Mohammed Essa, the assistant team manager.
“The Americans, France and Spain are probably our major rivals. They are the strongest three teams in a very strong field. The reason that we are here is to win and if they ride as best they can then we can do it.”
The race, sponsored by Meydan Racecourse, consists of six loops of varying distances, with each loop starting and finishing at the compound’s Forego Polo Field.
All riders start at the same time, and there are five mandatory veterinary stops.
The winner is judged by completing the course in the shortest time, which is likely to be around the 12-hour mark.
Endurance riding is the ultimate test of speed and stamina for a racehorse and jockey combination, as it requires the riders to understand their mount’s abilities.
“The course is hard,” Essa said. “They have put in obstacles, tunnels and rivers. It is very challenging, and it makes it so important to make the right move at the right time.”
The ruler of Dubai, who rides Arcadienne, has not raced competitively since his victory in England, but Essa does not believe that to be a problem.
“From the end of July he has just been preparing himself, not necessarily just for this event, but for the rest of the year.
“He loves the horses and the sport. He is totally in touch with all the best practices and training methods. Sheikh Hamdan is the same. It’s in his blood after all.”
Due to the hardy nature of the breed, the majority of competitors, including the UAE, will race on pure-bred Arabians. The rest will challenge on Anglo-Arabs, which are half thoroughbred on the distaff side, and half Arabian.
The Games run until October 10, during which time 54 national federations will compete in eight equestrian disciplines, including dressage, driving, eventing, jumping, reining and vaulting.
sports@thenational.ae
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Bahrain: Endurance team set for US event
Gulf-daily-news.com
September 23, 2010
SUPREME Council for Youth and Sports president and Bahrain Olympic Committee president Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa will arrive today in the US to lead a five-member Royal Endurance Team in the endurance horseride event of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, scheduled for Sunday in Lexington City, Kentucky.
Shaikh Nasser will be accompanied by Supreme Council for Youth and Sports first vice-president and Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation president Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, who however, is not taking part in the ride due to a recent wrist injury.
Other members of the Bahrain Royla Endurance Team are Ghazi Al Dossary, Ahmed Abdulla, Jaffer Mirza and Abdulrahman Al Saad.
It will be the fourth appearance for the Bahrain team in the World Championships, having taken part in the 2005 and 2006 edition cups in Dubai and Aken, Germany, respectively, before winning an impressive third-place finish in the 2008 event in Malaysia.
Other members of the Bahrain team arrived yesterday after an 18-hour trip via London. On arrival, the Bahraini riders were given a special welcome by hundreds of volunteers at the endurance village.
Commenting on the occasion, Shaikh Nasser expressed delight in taking part in an endurance ride in the US for the first time, adding that his team was looking forward to clinching a place among the top countries.
Shaikh Nasser said the team is well-prepared for the ride after successfully completing races in France, UK and Germany during their training camp earlier this summer.
The Royal Endurance Team leader extended his appreciation to His Majesty King Hamad for the continued support to endurance riders in Bahrain in general and to members of the team in the World Equestrian Games in specific.
Al Khaldiya Team captain Shaikh Khalid stressed the importance of taking full advantage of competing with the world's best in this international gathering.
Shaikh Khalid, who celebrated his birthday yesterday, said he is working hard on preparing the team to achieve remarkable results in international championships.
He expressed sadness over his inability to join his team members in this world event but said that the rest of the Bahrain team along with team leader Shaikh Nasser are capable of putting in an impressive show.
September 23, 2010
SUPREME Council for Youth and Sports president and Bahrain Olympic Committee president Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa will arrive today in the US to lead a five-member Royal Endurance Team in the endurance horseride event of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, scheduled for Sunday in Lexington City, Kentucky.
Shaikh Nasser will be accompanied by Supreme Council for Youth and Sports first vice-president and Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation president Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, who however, is not taking part in the ride due to a recent wrist injury.
Other members of the Bahrain Royla Endurance Team are Ghazi Al Dossary, Ahmed Abdulla, Jaffer Mirza and Abdulrahman Al Saad.
It will be the fourth appearance for the Bahrain team in the World Championships, having taken part in the 2005 and 2006 edition cups in Dubai and Aken, Germany, respectively, before winning an impressive third-place finish in the 2008 event in Malaysia.
Other members of the Bahrain team arrived yesterday after an 18-hour trip via London. On arrival, the Bahraini riders were given a special welcome by hundreds of volunteers at the endurance village.
Commenting on the occasion, Shaikh Nasser expressed delight in taking part in an endurance ride in the US for the first time, adding that his team was looking forward to clinching a place among the top countries.
Shaikh Nasser said the team is well-prepared for the ride after successfully completing races in France, UK and Germany during their training camp earlier this summer.
The Royal Endurance Team leader extended his appreciation to His Majesty King Hamad for the continued support to endurance riders in Bahrain in general and to members of the team in the World Equestrian Games in specific.
Al Khaldiya Team captain Shaikh Khalid stressed the importance of taking full advantage of competing with the world's best in this international gathering.
Shaikh Khalid, who celebrated his birthday yesterday, said he is working hard on preparing the team to achieve remarkable results in international championships.
He expressed sadness over his inability to join his team members in this world event but said that the rest of the Bahrain team along with team leader Shaikh Nasser are capable of putting in an impressive show.
Belgian Endurance WEG Team Horse Poespass Undergoes Colic Surgery
Eurodressage.com
September 20 2010
The 2010 World Equestrian Games have not even started yet and we are already sadly have to report that one WEG qualified horse got ill. Belgian endurance team horse Poespass suffered from a severe colic attack and had to be operated on. The horse was in quarantine in Cincinatti and was supposed to arrive in Lexington at the Horse Park today.
Poespass is owned and competed by Karin Boulanger. The combination was the 2008 Belgian Endurance Champion and winner of the 2008 CEIO Gubbio (160 km) in Italy. Poespass is a seasoned traveller.
A few hours after his arrival in quarantine the chestnut suffered from a bout of colic. The horse was transported to the Hagyard Equine Clinic near Lexington where he was operated on in the evening of 20 September 2010. Belgian team vet Jef Desmedt was present during the whole operation. Poespass made it through surgery but the next 24 hours are of course critical. Naturally the horse can no longer participate in the World Equestrian Games.
The Belgian endurance team, managed by chef d'equipe Pierre Arnould, is now left with three combinations and no longer has a scratch score.
We wish Poespass a speedy recovery.
September 20 2010
The 2010 World Equestrian Games have not even started yet and we are already sadly have to report that one WEG qualified horse got ill. Belgian endurance team horse Poespass suffered from a severe colic attack and had to be operated on. The horse was in quarantine in Cincinatti and was supposed to arrive in Lexington at the Horse Park today.
Poespass is owned and competed by Karin Boulanger. The combination was the 2008 Belgian Endurance Champion and winner of the 2008 CEIO Gubbio (160 km) in Italy. Poespass is a seasoned traveller.
A few hours after his arrival in quarantine the chestnut suffered from a bout of colic. The horse was transported to the Hagyard Equine Clinic near Lexington where he was operated on in the evening of 20 September 2010. Belgian team vet Jef Desmedt was present during the whole operation. Poespass made it through surgery but the next 24 hours are of course critical. Naturally the horse can no longer participate in the World Equestrian Games.
The Belgian endurance team, managed by chef d'equipe Pierre Arnould, is now left with three combinations and no longer has a scratch score.
We wish Poespass a speedy recovery.
Qatar Endurance Team to Compete in World Championships in United States
Doha, Qatar - The Al Shaqab Endurance Team will represent the State of Qatar at the prestigious World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Kentucky, USA, on Saturday, Sept. 26.
The five-member team will compete in the 160km race over varied terrain to vie for the title of World Champion Endurance team against 26 teams and a total of 162 nominated competitors from all over the world.
The World Equestrian Games are the official world championships competitions for the eight equestrian disciplines recognized by the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI), which is the world governing body of equestrian sport. The championship disciplines consist of Show Jumping, Dressage, Para-Equestrian Dressage, Eventing, Driving, Endurace Racing, Vaulting and Reining.
The Al Shaqab Endurance Team is the reigning Silver Medal winning team from the World Endurance Championships that are held every two years and most recently in Malaysia in 2008. This marks the first time the team has competed in the United States and their fourth consecutive appearance in the World Championships.
The five Al Shaqab riders who will participate on the Qatar team are Faleh Nasser Bughenaim, Mohammed Tahous Al Naimi, Abdul Rahman Al-Sulaitin, Jassim Mohammed Al-Maadhadi and Mohammed Sultan Al Suwaidi. Bughenaim, a veteran rider from the 2008 Silver Medal team, who finished 12th individually in the World Championships, scored three wins over the summer in Uruguay and France. Al Naimi is a 13-year veteran of the Al Shaqab team who competed on the Silver Medal team and is the oldest competitor on the team at age 31. Al Sulaitin earlier this summer won a 160km CEI*** race in La Baguala, Uruguay. Al Maadhadi brings a win from the summer campaign from the CEI** 120km race in Negrepelisse, France. Al Suwaidi did not ride in 2009 due to college studies, but has returned to the team in 2010 with solid performances and top five finishes in the past three races in England, France and Uruguay.
The Al Shaqab team representing the State of Qatar is led by Chef d’Equipe Fahad Saad Al Qahtani, Director of Al Shaqab, manager and trainer Hadi Nasser Al Naimi, assistant trainer Jabr Nasser Al Naimi, and assistant trainer Abdul Aziz Saleh Al Jabir.
His Highness, The Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani founded Al Shaqab in 1992 to preserve and further develop the Arabian horse in Qatar. Al Shaqab is led by H E Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani and encompasses an Endurance Team, Breeding & Show division, Riding Academy. In 2004, Al Shaqab proudly became a member of Qatar Foundation. Al Shaqab’s mission is to promote the highest standards in the breeding and showing of Arabian horses and serve as a community resource with innovative, educational and competitive opportunities in all of the equestrian arts.
Top photo: Following a summer campaign in France (pictured) and Uruguay, the Qatar Endurance Team will compete in the World Endurance Championship this Sunday in the United States.
NBC Networks Unite for Most Live U.S. TV Coverage of Equestrian Sports in History
Universal Sports, NBC Sports and UniversalSports.com to cover more than 80 hours of 2010 World Equestrian Games
September 22, 2010: Universal Sports and NBC Sports are teaming up to provide fans with the most extensive live television coverage of equestrian sports in U.S. history. NBC Sports will air 8 ½ hours of LIVE coverage on three consecutive weekends, beginning this Saturday at 12 Noon ET. Universal Sports will show more than 15 hours LIVE, including the majority of the show jumping competition. Universal Sports will also air taped broadcasts of the Reining Final, the Dressage Freestyle, the Driving competition and the Vaulting Final. The joint effort will include more than 30 hours of live and taped television coverage of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in Lexington, KY. This total amount of U.S. television coverage is unprecedented for equestrian sports in this country.
This prestigious international event is being held at Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington from September 25 to October 10. Lexington-area cable operator Insight Communications will offer the Universal Sports network to its subscribers on a trial basis beginning on September 24, allowing local horse enthusiasts to watch the action from start to finish.
The World Equestrian Games is held once every four years, with 2010 marking the first time the event will be held on U.S. soil. The Games feature the best riders and drivers in eight disciplines – dressage, show jumping, eventing, vaulting, reining, driving, endurance and para-equestrian dressage, which involves disabled riders. The 16-day competition is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of visitors to Lexington, a city known as the “Horse Capital of the World.”
All sessions of competition from the three Olympic equestrian disciplines -- dressage, eventing and jumping -- will be streamed LIVE on UniversalSports.com for a one-time subscription fee of $29.99. A daily purchase option of $12.99 also will be available. Full replays of subscription content will be provided for on-demand viewing. The live streaming begins with dressage (Sept. 27-29, Oct. 1), continues with eventing (Sept. 30, Oct. 1-3) and concludes with jumping (Oct. 4-6, 8-9). For details and a complete schedule of coverage on UniversalSports.com, go to universalsports.com/equestrian.
Additional live coverage of the international disciplines of reining, driving, vaulting, endurance, and recorded coverage of para-equestrian dressage, will air on the United States Equestrian Federation Network at www.USEFNetwork.com. Pay-Per-View coverage of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games will also be offered at www.FEITV.org.
(Endurance is not on the NBC schedule.)
September 22, 2010: Universal Sports and NBC Sports are teaming up to provide fans with the most extensive live television coverage of equestrian sports in U.S. history. NBC Sports will air 8 ½ hours of LIVE coverage on three consecutive weekends, beginning this Saturday at 12 Noon ET. Universal Sports will show more than 15 hours LIVE, including the majority of the show jumping competition. Universal Sports will also air taped broadcasts of the Reining Final, the Dressage Freestyle, the Driving competition and the Vaulting Final. The joint effort will include more than 30 hours of live and taped television coverage of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in Lexington, KY. This total amount of U.S. television coverage is unprecedented for equestrian sports in this country.
This prestigious international event is being held at Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington from September 25 to October 10. Lexington-area cable operator Insight Communications will offer the Universal Sports network to its subscribers on a trial basis beginning on September 24, allowing local horse enthusiasts to watch the action from start to finish.
The World Equestrian Games is held once every four years, with 2010 marking the first time the event will be held on U.S. soil. The Games feature the best riders and drivers in eight disciplines – dressage, show jumping, eventing, vaulting, reining, driving, endurance and para-equestrian dressage, which involves disabled riders. The 16-day competition is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of visitors to Lexington, a city known as the “Horse Capital of the World.”
All sessions of competition from the three Olympic equestrian disciplines -- dressage, eventing and jumping -- will be streamed LIVE on UniversalSports.com for a one-time subscription fee of $29.99. A daily purchase option of $12.99 also will be available. Full replays of subscription content will be provided for on-demand viewing. The live streaming begins with dressage (Sept. 27-29, Oct. 1), continues with eventing (Sept. 30, Oct. 1-3) and concludes with jumping (Oct. 4-6, 8-9). For details and a complete schedule of coverage on UniversalSports.com, go to universalsports.com/equestrian.
Additional live coverage of the international disciplines of reining, driving, vaulting, endurance, and recorded coverage of para-equestrian dressage, will air on the United States Equestrian Federation Network at www.USEFNetwork.com. Pay-Per-View coverage of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games will also be offered at www.FEITV.org.
(Endurance is not on the NBC schedule.)
Meydan's sponsorship of international equestrian sports culminates as Gold Sponsor of the Endurance Championship at the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games
The Championship will see world-class endurance riders including a formidable team from the UAE
Dubai, UAE, 23 September 2010 - Meydan reaffirms its commitment to international equestrian sports as the Gold Sponsor of the Endurance Championship at the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games (WEG) held in Kentucky, the United States of America. The sponsorship aligns Meydan along the objectives of the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), with support across other initiatives such as the FEI Nations Cup for show jumping, which Meydan has been the title sponsor of for the past 2 consecutive years.
Meydan’s exhibition booth is located near the Trade Stands and will showcase an informative and educational experience for the public, including give-aways and exhibition displays of the Meydan City project in Dubai and of its deep-rooted equine heritage.
The Endurance Championship will be held on 26 September 2010, Day 2 of the Games at Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, the United States of America. The participating teams at this year’s Games will have 5 riders instead of the usual 6, and will consist of the best endurance riders worldwide.
One of the 8 equestrian disciplines including dressage, driving, eventing, jumping, para dressage, reining and vaulting, the Endurance Championship is held over a distance of 160 km across altitude differentials of 300 feet in Kentucky Horse Park and surrounding farmland, with 5 compulsory stops for veterinary checks. The course comprises of 6 loops varying in lengths between 18 to 40 km, with each loop starting and finishing at the Forego polo field. The race will start at 7:00 a.m. with the winners expected to cross the finish line at 7:30 p.m. A majority of the participating horses will be pure-bred Arabians, with the remaining predominantly Anglo-Arabs – half thoroughbred (mare) and half Arabian (stallion).
Mr. Saeed Humaid Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and CEO of Meydan, said: “We are pleased to be a Gold Sponsor presenting the Endurance Championship at the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. Meydan has always firmly supported equestrian sports internationally, and with the prestige and recognition that the World Equestrian Games garners, being associated with the Championship has allowed us an excellent avenue to communicate with an international audience about Meydan. It further allows us to capitalise on the synergies that exist between our respective cultures given our mutual appreciation for equestrian sports, and also to those who share that same passion internationally and who might look to Meydan as a possible venue for consideration of future related business and lifestyle investments or partnerships.”
About Meydan - One dynamic location, many possibilities
Meydan City is the brainchild of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the United Arab Emirates, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. It is the culmination of his vision to create not just the ultimate venue for horseracing, but also an integrated city that is sustainable, environmentally responsible and also one that positions Dubai at the centre of the competitive global business stage.
Meydan City will feature four distinct sub-districts – Meydan Racecourse; where the Meydan Grandstand takes centre stage and is home to the Dubai World Cup, Meydan Metropolis; a series of state-of-the-art business parks, Meydan Horizons; where business towers intermingle with luxury waterfront developments, and Meydan Godolphin Parks; with its distinctive Godolphin Tower created in the image of a thoroughbred and also where the shopping destination Signature Mall is located.
Meydan Grandstand and Racecourse can accommodate a capacity of 60,000, and features fine-dining restaurants, covered car parking for 8,600, the Meydan Museum and Gallery, an IMAX Theatre, the Meydan Boathouse, and the world's largest and longest trackside LED panel. The Dubai Racing Club, Emirates Racing Authority and Meydan Freezone Falcon Commercial Park offices are located here. Meydan Racecourse district will also feature a 9-hole golf course, showroom district and luxury residential villas to rival those in any cosmopolitan city.
Meydan Grandstand also houses the world’s first five-star trackside hotel, Jumeirah The Meydan. With 285 luxuriously appointed rooms and suites, a Rooftop Infinity pool, a variety of F&B establishments, business, conference, banqueting facilities and a spa and fitness centre, most of these facilities offering stunning views of the racecourse.
The seamlessly interconnected indoor and outdoor spaces at Meydan Grandstand and Racecourse provide excellent venues for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions. These include unique facilities such as the Sky Bubble, which accommodates up to 4,500 guests, 72 Grandstand Corporate Suites with full track views, the Parade Ring, Receiving Barns, an indoor food court, extensive infield space, and the Apron Views.
With its Freezone status geared to businesses who are looking to be at the gateway to Europe and Asia, Meydan City is one location that offers a myriad of investment opportunities and experiences, delivering a perfect platform for business, entertainment and lifestyle.
www.meydan.ae
Dubai, UAE, 23 September 2010 - Meydan reaffirms its commitment to international equestrian sports as the Gold Sponsor of the Endurance Championship at the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games (WEG) held in Kentucky, the United States of America. The sponsorship aligns Meydan along the objectives of the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), with support across other initiatives such as the FEI Nations Cup for show jumping, which Meydan has been the title sponsor of for the past 2 consecutive years.
Meydan’s exhibition booth is located near the Trade Stands and will showcase an informative and educational experience for the public, including give-aways and exhibition displays of the Meydan City project in Dubai and of its deep-rooted equine heritage.
The Endurance Championship will be held on 26 September 2010, Day 2 of the Games at Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, the United States of America. The participating teams at this year’s Games will have 5 riders instead of the usual 6, and will consist of the best endurance riders worldwide.
One of the 8 equestrian disciplines including dressage, driving, eventing, jumping, para dressage, reining and vaulting, the Endurance Championship is held over a distance of 160 km across altitude differentials of 300 feet in Kentucky Horse Park and surrounding farmland, with 5 compulsory stops for veterinary checks. The course comprises of 6 loops varying in lengths between 18 to 40 km, with each loop starting and finishing at the Forego polo field. The race will start at 7:00 a.m. with the winners expected to cross the finish line at 7:30 p.m. A majority of the participating horses will be pure-bred Arabians, with the remaining predominantly Anglo-Arabs – half thoroughbred (mare) and half Arabian (stallion).
Mr. Saeed Humaid Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and CEO of Meydan, said: “We are pleased to be a Gold Sponsor presenting the Endurance Championship at the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. Meydan has always firmly supported equestrian sports internationally, and with the prestige and recognition that the World Equestrian Games garners, being associated with the Championship has allowed us an excellent avenue to communicate with an international audience about Meydan. It further allows us to capitalise on the synergies that exist between our respective cultures given our mutual appreciation for equestrian sports, and also to those who share that same passion internationally and who might look to Meydan as a possible venue for consideration of future related business and lifestyle investments or partnerships.”
About Meydan - One dynamic location, many possibilities
Meydan City is the brainchild of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the United Arab Emirates, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. It is the culmination of his vision to create not just the ultimate venue for horseracing, but also an integrated city that is sustainable, environmentally responsible and also one that positions Dubai at the centre of the competitive global business stage.
Meydan City will feature four distinct sub-districts – Meydan Racecourse; where the Meydan Grandstand takes centre stage and is home to the Dubai World Cup, Meydan Metropolis; a series of state-of-the-art business parks, Meydan Horizons; where business towers intermingle with luxury waterfront developments, and Meydan Godolphin Parks; with its distinctive Godolphin Tower created in the image of a thoroughbred and also where the shopping destination Signature Mall is located.
Meydan Grandstand and Racecourse can accommodate a capacity of 60,000, and features fine-dining restaurants, covered car parking for 8,600, the Meydan Museum and Gallery, an IMAX Theatre, the Meydan Boathouse, and the world's largest and longest trackside LED panel. The Dubai Racing Club, Emirates Racing Authority and Meydan Freezone Falcon Commercial Park offices are located here. Meydan Racecourse district will also feature a 9-hole golf course, showroom district and luxury residential villas to rival those in any cosmopolitan city.
Meydan Grandstand also houses the world’s first five-star trackside hotel, Jumeirah The Meydan. With 285 luxuriously appointed rooms and suites, a Rooftop Infinity pool, a variety of F&B establishments, business, conference, banqueting facilities and a spa and fitness centre, most of these facilities offering stunning views of the racecourse.
The seamlessly interconnected indoor and outdoor spaces at Meydan Grandstand and Racecourse provide excellent venues for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions. These include unique facilities such as the Sky Bubble, which accommodates up to 4,500 guests, 72 Grandstand Corporate Suites with full track views, the Parade Ring, Receiving Barns, an indoor food court, extensive infield space, and the Apron Views.
With its Freezone status geared to businesses who are looking to be at the gateway to Europe and Asia, Meydan City is one location that offers a myriad of investment opportunities and experiences, delivering a perfect platform for business, entertainment and lifestyle.
www.meydan.ae
New Zealand: Let the Games Begin
NZEquestrian.org
22/09/2010 11:31:30 a.m.
New Zealand's 2010 World Equestrian Games is about to begin in earnest, as the Kiwi endurance riders prepare to take on the best in the world. While the actual 160-kilometre race starts on Sunday, their games really start on Saturday, before the opening ceremony has even happened, when their horses will face their first vet check.
Endurance chef d'equipe Madonna Harris says it will be a testing time, although she has every confidence in her trio of riders.
“Of all the disciplines, this really is the toughest,” she says. “Throughout the race we present to the vets seven times.”
And at any time, if the horse's heartbeat doesn't come down fast enough or there is a niggle of any sort, a combination can be pulled from the race.
With just three in the New Zealand team, there is no room for error, with no chance of any team accomplishment if all don't finish the race. And the input of those supporting the riders is just as important as those on the horses.
“Our grooms have to be particularly adaptable and malleable to ensure we get through this,” says Harris. “After looking at the layout of the course and the vet gates, we've had to make a few changes to our strategies and learn some new techniques.”
The heat will be another big challenge for the endurance competitors, as will the mass start. Around 130 combinations are expected on the start line. Anxiety levels will be fever-pitch and that half hour before the race, and half hour into the race, can be make or break.
“Everyone is wired,” says Harris. “There are flags, banners and general mayhem going on – our riders just need to find an area and remain calm.” Combinations will do six loops of varying distances throughout the race – the shortest is 18 kilometres, and the longest 39.9 kilometres.
“This is a four star rated race and calls for courage and control.” That's the highest ranking, and only held at World Games of World Championships.
“As good as these riders are, they are completely inexperienced at this level, so it is a big ask for all.”
The Kiwi horses left New Zealand late August and have now acclimatised well. Harris says each is in peak condition and now ready to race. In recent days they've had plenty of attention, including the magic hands of New Zealand team equine physiotherapist Nikki Lourie.
Harris is picking a Spanish combination to take the individual and perhaps United Arab Emirates for the individual.
“But I am very confident about the quality of our own horses and our ability to ride at speed...we just need that bit of luck to go our way.”
The World Equestrian Games are being hosted in Lexington, Kentucky, and run through until October 10. New Zealand is represented in showjumping and eventing as well as endurance.
It is the first time the games have been held outside of Europe and will attract more than 800 riders from nearly 60 countries. It is expected to be worth around $US150 million to the economy.
For more news, photos and Blogs from the NZ Team make sure you check out the "FEI 2010 WEG", on the ESNZ website
22/09/2010 11:31:30 a.m.
New Zealand's 2010 World Equestrian Games is about to begin in earnest, as the Kiwi endurance riders prepare to take on the best in the world. While the actual 160-kilometre race starts on Sunday, their games really start on Saturday, before the opening ceremony has even happened, when their horses will face their first vet check.
Endurance chef d'equipe Madonna Harris says it will be a testing time, although she has every confidence in her trio of riders.
“Of all the disciplines, this really is the toughest,” she says. “Throughout the race we present to the vets seven times.”
And at any time, if the horse's heartbeat doesn't come down fast enough or there is a niggle of any sort, a combination can be pulled from the race.
With just three in the New Zealand team, there is no room for error, with no chance of any team accomplishment if all don't finish the race. And the input of those supporting the riders is just as important as those on the horses.
“Our grooms have to be particularly adaptable and malleable to ensure we get through this,” says Harris. “After looking at the layout of the course and the vet gates, we've had to make a few changes to our strategies and learn some new techniques.”
The heat will be another big challenge for the endurance competitors, as will the mass start. Around 130 combinations are expected on the start line. Anxiety levels will be fever-pitch and that half hour before the race, and half hour into the race, can be make or break.
“Everyone is wired,” says Harris. “There are flags, banners and general mayhem going on – our riders just need to find an area and remain calm.” Combinations will do six loops of varying distances throughout the race – the shortest is 18 kilometres, and the longest 39.9 kilometres.
“This is a four star rated race and calls for courage and control.” That's the highest ranking, and only held at World Games of World Championships.
“As good as these riders are, they are completely inexperienced at this level, so it is a big ask for all.”
The Kiwi horses left New Zealand late August and have now acclimatised well. Harris says each is in peak condition and now ready to race. In recent days they've had plenty of attention, including the magic hands of New Zealand team equine physiotherapist Nikki Lourie.
Harris is picking a Spanish combination to take the individual and perhaps United Arab Emirates for the individual.
“But I am very confident about the quality of our own horses and our ability to ride at speed...we just need that bit of luck to go our way.”
The World Equestrian Games are being hosted in Lexington, Kentucky, and run through until October 10. New Zealand is represented in showjumping and eventing as well as endurance.
It is the first time the games have been held outside of Europe and will attract more than 800 riders from nearly 60 countries. It is expected to be worth around $US150 million to the economy.
For more news, photos and Blogs from the NZ Team make sure you check out the "FEI 2010 WEG", on the ESNZ website
The 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games begin Saturday
Huliq.com - Full Article
Submitted by Patrick Rall on 2010-09-21
The 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games logo
This Saturday brings opening ceremonies of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky. Serving as the Olympics of the equestrian world, this event has been held every four years since its start 20 years ago in Stockholm, Sweden. Having made stops in the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, and Germany since then, the Games come to the US in 2010 for the first time.
NBC will offer a look at the non-racing side of the equine world
The World Equestrian Games cover a huge variety of different subcultures within the equine world with eight disciplines having their own competitions at the 2010 Games. Jumping, Dressage, Eventing, Driving, Endurance, Vaulting, Reining, and Para Dressage are featured at the 2010 World Equestrian Games, with Para Dressage making its WEG debut at the Kentucky Horse Park.
When the World Equestrian Games began in 1990 in Sweden, there were just six disciplines offered. Jumping, Dressage, Eventing, Driving, Endurance, and Vaulting were the first six types of competition that first year and when Hague, Netherlands hosted the 1994 games, the lineup was the same...
Read more here:
http://www.huliq.com/10281/2010-alltech-fei-world-equestrian-games-begin-saturday
Submitted by Patrick Rall on 2010-09-21
The 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games logo
This Saturday brings opening ceremonies of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky. Serving as the Olympics of the equestrian world, this event has been held every four years since its start 20 years ago in Stockholm, Sweden. Having made stops in the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, and Germany since then, the Games come to the US in 2010 for the first time.
NBC will offer a look at the non-racing side of the equine world
The World Equestrian Games cover a huge variety of different subcultures within the equine world with eight disciplines having their own competitions at the 2010 Games. Jumping, Dressage, Eventing, Driving, Endurance, Vaulting, Reining, and Para Dressage are featured at the 2010 World Equestrian Games, with Para Dressage making its WEG debut at the Kentucky Horse Park.
When the World Equestrian Games began in 1990 in Sweden, there were just six disciplines offered. Jumping, Dressage, Eventing, Driving, Endurance, and Vaulting were the first six types of competition that first year and when Hague, Netherlands hosted the 1994 games, the lineup was the same...
Read more here:
http://www.huliq.com/10281/2010-alltech-fei-world-equestrian-games-begin-saturday
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
A flurry of activity as city, horse park prepare for WEG
Kentucky.com - Full Article
September 21 2010
By Linda B. Blackford, Beverly Fortune and Cheryl Truman - lblackford@herald-leader.com
The welcome-bienvenue-willkommen banners are up, the Horse Park has turned into a vista of white tents, and downtown streets are, well, nearly clear of construction as Lexington prepares to welcome thousands of visitors starting Saturday for the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.
In the Kentucky Horse Park's main stadium, a troupe of black Friesian stallions pranced together in perfect synchronicity Monday as they practiced for the opening ceremony on Saturday night. They appeared calm despite the roar of tractors delivering bushes around the rings as technicians plugged in sound systems high above their heads.
"We're getting it all together," said Everett McCorvey, the University of Kentucky opera director who is producing the opening ceremony. "The horses practice during the day, and the humans practice every evening."
Read more here:
http://www.kentucky.com/2010/09/21/1443609/a-flurry-of-activity-as-city-horse.html
September 21 2010
By Linda B. Blackford, Beverly Fortune and Cheryl Truman - lblackford@herald-leader.com
The welcome-bienvenue-willkommen banners are up, the Horse Park has turned into a vista of white tents, and downtown streets are, well, nearly clear of construction as Lexington prepares to welcome thousands of visitors starting Saturday for the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.
In the Kentucky Horse Park's main stadium, a troupe of black Friesian stallions pranced together in perfect synchronicity Monday as they practiced for the opening ceremony on Saturday night. They appeared calm despite the roar of tractors delivering bushes around the rings as technicians plugged in sound systems high above their heads.
"We're getting it all together," said Everett McCorvey, the University of Kentucky opera director who is producing the opening ceremony. "The horses practice during the day, and the humans practice every evening."
Read more here:
http://www.kentucky.com/2010/09/21/1443609/a-flurry-of-activity-as-city-horse.html
WEG: Going for Gold
Bloodhorse.com Blog - Full Article
By Jacqueline Duke
21 Sep 2010
(Originally published in the Sept 25, 2010 issue of The Blood-Horse magazine. Feel free to share your own thoughts and opinions at the bottom of the column.)
The largest, deepest pool of equine talent ever assembled has arrived in Kentucky. And, no, it’s not the contenders for the 2010 Breeders’ Cup World Championships. Some 800 horses from all corners of the globe are converging on the Kentucky Horse Park for the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, making Lexington inarguably the Equine Capital of the World from Sept. 25-Oct. 10.
During the 16-day run, horse-and-rider combinations from 58 nations will participate in eight internationally recognized disciplines: dressage, three-day eventing, show jumping, reining, driving, vaulting, endurance, and paraequestrian. For equine sport aficionados, it’s like having the Super Bowl, World Series, NBA Finals, World Cup soccer finals, and PGA Championship back to back in one location.
The United States made the successful bid four years ago to host the 2010 event, the first World Games ever staged on American soil. Securing, organizing, and producing the Games has been no easy task, particularly in the wake of a worldwide recession. Ticket sales have fallen well below the projected 600,000-plus, causing organizers to abandon free shuttle service and other amenities and to charge high prices for parking. The high cost of attending the Games has drawn much criticism. Other worries abound, from potential traffic nightmares to the impression downtown Lexington will make on worldly visitors.
Whatever trepidations might exist about its staging, the 2010 Games promise an unsurpassed level of competition in a venue whose scope and horse-friendly features far exceed those ever envisioned by Horse Park founders. The Games also will let the Bluegrass show off its finest product—the Thoroughbred—on course, at breeding farms, and, toward the end of the Games, at the Keeneland fall race meet...
Read more here:
http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/finalturn/archive/2010/09/21/going-for-gold-by-jacqueline-duke.aspx
By Jacqueline Duke
21 Sep 2010
(Originally published in the Sept 25, 2010 issue of The Blood-Horse magazine. Feel free to share your own thoughts and opinions at the bottom of the column.)
The largest, deepest pool of equine talent ever assembled has arrived in Kentucky. And, no, it’s not the contenders for the 2010 Breeders’ Cup World Championships. Some 800 horses from all corners of the globe are converging on the Kentucky Horse Park for the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, making Lexington inarguably the Equine Capital of the World from Sept. 25-Oct. 10.
During the 16-day run, horse-and-rider combinations from 58 nations will participate in eight internationally recognized disciplines: dressage, three-day eventing, show jumping, reining, driving, vaulting, endurance, and paraequestrian. For equine sport aficionados, it’s like having the Super Bowl, World Series, NBA Finals, World Cup soccer finals, and PGA Championship back to back in one location.
The United States made the successful bid four years ago to host the 2010 event, the first World Games ever staged on American soil. Securing, organizing, and producing the Games has been no easy task, particularly in the wake of a worldwide recession. Ticket sales have fallen well below the projected 600,000-plus, causing organizers to abandon free shuttle service and other amenities and to charge high prices for parking. The high cost of attending the Games has drawn much criticism. Other worries abound, from potential traffic nightmares to the impression downtown Lexington will make on worldly visitors.
Whatever trepidations might exist about its staging, the 2010 Games promise an unsurpassed level of competition in a venue whose scope and horse-friendly features far exceed those ever envisioned by Horse Park founders. The Games also will let the Bluegrass show off its finest product—the Thoroughbred—on course, at breeding farms, and, toward the end of the Games, at the Keeneland fall race meet...
Read more here:
http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/finalturn/archive/2010/09/21/going-for-gold-by-jacqueline-duke.aspx
New Zealand: Testing race ahead for NZ endurance riders at world games
http://nz.sports.yahoo.com/news/article/-/7994361/testing-race-ahead-nz-endurance-riders-world-games
NZPA - September 22, 2010, 4:35 pm
New Zealand's three endurance riders are ramping up preparations ahead of the World Equestrian Games in Kentucky, United States, which start at the weekend.
Jenny Chandler, Alison Higgins and Debby Worsfold will be the first New Zealanders in action when they line up for the vet check with their horses on Sunday (NZT), followed by their 160km race on Monday.
The team have been based on a farm not far from the Kentucky Equestrian Park in Lexington, but will move in to their official stables on Saturday.
Endurance chef d'equipe Madonna Harris said she had confidence in her trio of riders, who had prepared well.
"Of all the disciplines, this really is the toughest," she said. "Throughout the race we present to the vets seven times."
At any stage in the race, if a horse's heartbeat does not come down fast enough or there is a niggle of any sort, a combination can be pulled.
And with just three in the New Zealand team, there is no room for error. All three combinations must finish the race to have a chance in the team category. About 130 combinations are expected to make the start line.
"Everyone is wired," Harris said.
"There are flags, banners and general mayhem going on - our riders just need to find an area and remain calm. As good as these riders are, they are completely inexperienced at this level, so it is a big ask for all."
New Zealand's eventing horses arrived from Europe today and riders Mark Todd, Andrew Nicholson, Caroline Powell and Jonathan Paget have all flown in to join teammate Clarke Johnstone, who arrived with the Australian team earlier this week.
The eventing starts on October 1 (NZT).
Katie McVean is the only showjumper already settled in Lexington, with the rest due to arrive next week.
The showjumping starts on October 5, with the Games finishing on October 11.
It is the first time they have been held outside of Europe and more than 800 riders from about 60 countries are competing.
NZPA - September 22, 2010, 4:35 pm
New Zealand's three endurance riders are ramping up preparations ahead of the World Equestrian Games in Kentucky, United States, which start at the weekend.
Jenny Chandler, Alison Higgins and Debby Worsfold will be the first New Zealanders in action when they line up for the vet check with their horses on Sunday (NZT), followed by their 160km race on Monday.
The team have been based on a farm not far from the Kentucky Equestrian Park in Lexington, but will move in to their official stables on Saturday.
Endurance chef d'equipe Madonna Harris said she had confidence in her trio of riders, who had prepared well.
"Of all the disciplines, this really is the toughest," she said. "Throughout the race we present to the vets seven times."
At any stage in the race, if a horse's heartbeat does not come down fast enough or there is a niggle of any sort, a combination can be pulled.
And with just three in the New Zealand team, there is no room for error. All three combinations must finish the race to have a chance in the team category. About 130 combinations are expected to make the start line.
"Everyone is wired," Harris said.
"There are flags, banners and general mayhem going on - our riders just need to find an area and remain calm. As good as these riders are, they are completely inexperienced at this level, so it is a big ask for all."
New Zealand's eventing horses arrived from Europe today and riders Mark Todd, Andrew Nicholson, Caroline Powell and Jonathan Paget have all flown in to join teammate Clarke Johnstone, who arrived with the Australian team earlier this week.
The eventing starts on October 1 (NZT).
Katie McVean is the only showjumper already settled in Lexington, with the rest due to arrive next week.
The showjumping starts on October 5, with the Games finishing on October 11.
It is the first time they have been held outside of Europe and more than 800 riders from about 60 countries are competing.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
World Equestrian Games Events - Endurance
September 19 2010
Endurance competition tests the speed and endurance of the horse and the management skills of the rider, who must have a knowledge of pace and efficient and safe use of the horse over considerable distances.
The ride is 100 miles, held on one day in six stages with a compulsory stop after every phase for veterinarians to check the horses' fitness to continue. A horse's heart rate must return to 64 beats per minute within a certain period before it can advance to the next loop.
There also are mandatory “hold times” or rest periods, varying from 30 to 50 minutes depending on the phase, before competitors can go to the next stage.
Related
* Endurance racing in Indiana
* Endurance rider prepares for games
The competitor who finishes the race in the shortest time — and whose horse passes a final veterinary exam and post-race drug testing — wins. A competitor is timed not only while on the course but until the horse's heart rate returns to normal and it goes to the vet gate.
Countries designate four members whose times can count toward the team competition and a fifth can compete as an individual. Team medals are determined by adding the times of the top three finishers on a team...
Read more here:
http://www.courier-journal.com/article/20100919/WEG01/309190040/-1/weg01/
Saturday, September 18, 2010
UAE hot favourite in World Equestrian Games
Gulfnews.com - Full ArticleMohammad likely to lead seven -member national team in the multi-discipline competition in Kentucky
* By M. Satya Narayan, Senior Reporter
* Published: 00:00 September 19, 2010
Abu Dhabi : The UAE endurance team, likely to be led by His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, is to start as one of the favourites in the multi-discipline Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games (WEG) which will start on September 25 in Lexington, Kentucky.
Shaikh Mohammad, along with Shaikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, and Shaikh Majid Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture, are part of the seven-member team which has qualified for the 160km endurance championship scheduled on September 27.
The UAE has also qualified for the showjumping event, which will be held in October at the Kentucky Horse Park which will stage all eight equestrian disciplines.
National federations for 58 countries have submitted entries for the 2010 Games with Australia, Canada, Germany and the United States taking part in all eight disciplines which include dressage, driving, endurance, eventing, jumping, para dressage, reining and vaulting.
The UAE endurance team has qualified nearly 12 horses, but only four riders and horses for the team championship and one rider for the individual championship will be permitted to represent the country.
Shaikh Ahmad Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum won the endurance individual gold at the 2002 WEG held in Jerez, Spain.
The World Equestrian Games (WEG) are comprised of the world championships for eight equestrian sports and are held every four years, two years before the Olympic Games.
Largest airlift
An FEI press release says the largest commercial airlift of horses ever undertaken for a single event began from Belgium this week — heading to the United States for the first time in the event's 20-year history.
Almost 450 horses will be departing Europe in the coming days until September 29, in 10 charter flights equipped for the task, leaving from Belgium's Liege airport and the Amsterdam airport.
These European charter flights form part of an even larger worldwide airlift of horses competing in the September 25 and October 10 Games, organisers said.
In addition to the 445 horses departing from Europe, 19 horses from Australasia and 35 from South America are to fly to the United States in the coming week.
Horses grab their passports and jet
Skynews.com.au - Full ArticleSunday September 19, 2010
Horses grab their passports and jet
The largest commercial airlift of horses ever undertaken for a single event has begun in Belgium.
Almost 450 horses will depart from Europe in the second half of September bound for the US to take part in the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.
Each horse must travel on its own passport, although unlike human passports with photographic identification, horse passports contain a markings diagram or in some cases microchip data.
Each horse must also have an export health certificate.
'You don't have a photo they have a marking diagram a diagram of a horse and all horses have white sox or different coloured mains or whatever and a branding on them perhaps and thats all marked on there so they can look at it and see which horse it is,' Henry Bullen, Director, Peden Bloodstock, said.
The European charter forms part of an even larger worldwide airlift of horses which will compete in eight different disciplines at the Equestrian Games in Lexington, Kentucky.
Read more here:
http://www.skynews.com.au/offbeat/article.aspx?id=515087&articleID=
Friday, September 17, 2010
Largest Commercial Airlift of International Horses Heads to the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games
FEI PRESS RELEASE
September 17, 2010
Largest Commercial Airlift of International Horses Heads to the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian GamesThe largest commercial airlift of horses ever undertaken for a single event will depart from Belgium this week heading to the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, which are taking place in the United States for the first time in the 20-year history of the event.
Almost 450 horses are departing Europe between the 16th and 29th of September. Ten specially constructed charter flights will leave from Belgium’s Liege airport and the Amsterdam airport over the next 14 days.
These European charter flights form part of an even larger worldwide airlift of horses competing in the eight different disciplines of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Kentucky between September 25th and October 10th.
In addition to the 445 horses departing from Europe, 19 horses from Australasia and 35 from South America will fly into the United States in the upcoming week. The airlift is the largest ever undertaken for one event due to the World Equestrian Games being held on American soil for the first time. The Games will be the largest sporting event in the United States this year.
The horses will be flown to Cincinnati where they will spend a minimum of 42 hours in quarantine before competing in the Games.
During the nine-hour journey from Europe, the horses will be cared for by a team of 24 individuals, including grooms, attendants and vets, many of them professional flying grooms who make their living tending to the needs of their equine passengers.
Flying grooms will be supplied by Peden Bloodstock, the company responsible for arranging the air charters. Head Groom Tim Rolfe, who has overseen six Olympic and five World Equestrian Games airlifts, explained that the grooms must spend many months in training to undertake such journeys.
“Most of us come from racing or grooming backgrounds but we have to undertake similar training to commercial airline cabin crew, particularly as we have to look after the human passengers as well,” said Rolfe.
Like most commercial passenger flights, the horses travel in a specified cabin class, with the majority travelling “business class”.
The class of cabin is determined by the number of horses in each “air stable”. Those traveling economy will be three to a container, two horses will share business class containers and those in first class have the air stable all to themselves. Only one horse will get a luxury flight from Belgium, but the high-flyer’s identity is staying firmly under wraps.
Ticket prices range from €8,500 to €13,000 depending on the class selected, but considering most of these horses are worth several million Euro, it is money well spent.
Five-Star Service
The horses’ safety and welfare are paramount, and pilots are specially trained to ensure that the take-off and landings are smoother than usual. The take-off will involve a more gradual climb, and a much slower braking system is adopted for the landing.
The horses have a constant supply of in-flight food. They can snack on hay nets, nuts, oats and bran. Over 1,500 litres of water will be taken on board to ensure the equine passengers are kept well hydrated while in the air.
In-flight entertainment is taken care of by the flying grooms, according to Peden Bloodstock Director, Henry Bullen.
“It is too loud on board to warrant anything like soft music, but there are plenty of bad jokes from the flying grooms to keep everyone entertained. The flight, once in the air, is generally smoother than on the road however, unless of course there is the odd patch of turbulence,” said Bullen.
Once the horses arrive in Cincinnati, they will spend up to 42 hours in a quarantine facility near the airport before departing on the 90 minute road trip to the Kentucky Horse Park, venue for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.
September 17, 2010
Largest Commercial Airlift of International Horses Heads to the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian GamesThe largest commercial airlift of horses ever undertaken for a single event will depart from Belgium this week heading to the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, which are taking place in the United States for the first time in the 20-year history of the event.
Almost 450 horses are departing Europe between the 16th and 29th of September. Ten specially constructed charter flights will leave from Belgium’s Liege airport and the Amsterdam airport over the next 14 days.
These European charter flights form part of an even larger worldwide airlift of horses competing in the eight different disciplines of the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Kentucky between September 25th and October 10th.
In addition to the 445 horses departing from Europe, 19 horses from Australasia and 35 from South America will fly into the United States in the upcoming week. The airlift is the largest ever undertaken for one event due to the World Equestrian Games being held on American soil for the first time. The Games will be the largest sporting event in the United States this year.
The horses will be flown to Cincinnati where they will spend a minimum of 42 hours in quarantine before competing in the Games.
During the nine-hour journey from Europe, the horses will be cared for by a team of 24 individuals, including grooms, attendants and vets, many of them professional flying grooms who make their living tending to the needs of their equine passengers.
Flying grooms will be supplied by Peden Bloodstock, the company responsible for arranging the air charters. Head Groom Tim Rolfe, who has overseen six Olympic and five World Equestrian Games airlifts, explained that the grooms must spend many months in training to undertake such journeys.
“Most of us come from racing or grooming backgrounds but we have to undertake similar training to commercial airline cabin crew, particularly as we have to look after the human passengers as well,” said Rolfe.
Like most commercial passenger flights, the horses travel in a specified cabin class, with the majority travelling “business class”.
The class of cabin is determined by the number of horses in each “air stable”. Those traveling economy will be three to a container, two horses will share business class containers and those in first class have the air stable all to themselves. Only one horse will get a luxury flight from Belgium, but the high-flyer’s identity is staying firmly under wraps.
Ticket prices range from €8,500 to €13,000 depending on the class selected, but considering most of these horses are worth several million Euro, it is money well spent.
Five-Star Service
The horses’ safety and welfare are paramount, and pilots are specially trained to ensure that the take-off and landings are smoother than usual. The take-off will involve a more gradual climb, and a much slower braking system is adopted for the landing.
The horses have a constant supply of in-flight food. They can snack on hay nets, nuts, oats and bran. Over 1,500 litres of water will be taken on board to ensure the equine passengers are kept well hydrated while in the air.
In-flight entertainment is taken care of by the flying grooms, according to Peden Bloodstock Director, Henry Bullen.
“It is too loud on board to warrant anything like soft music, but there are plenty of bad jokes from the flying grooms to keep everyone entertained. The flight, once in the air, is generally smoother than on the road however, unless of course there is the odd patch of turbulence,” said Bullen.
Once the horses arrive in Cincinnati, they will spend up to 42 hours in a quarantine facility near the airport before departing on the 90 minute road trip to the Kentucky Horse Park, venue for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.
USA WEC Team Announced
Riding for the USA Team at the World Endurance Championship in Lexington, Kentucky on September 26, 2010 will be:
Heather Reynolds on Ssamiam
Jan Worthington on Golden Lightning
Meg Sleeper on Syrocco Harmony
Ellen Rapp on Berjo Smokey
Lindsay Graham on Monk will be the individual rider.
The US Team Alternate is Deb Reich on DJB Juniper.
Heather Reynolds on Ssamiam
Jan Worthington on Golden Lightning
Meg Sleeper on Syrocco Harmony
Ellen Rapp on Berjo Smokey
Lindsay Graham on Monk will be the individual rider.
The US Team Alternate is Deb Reich on DJB Juniper.
Quarantine Facility Ready for Equine Athletes Competing at the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games
September 15, 2010
Lexington, KY–9 days to go–A temporary equine quarantine facility at the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Airport is ready to facilitate the entry of horses from around the world competing in the eight World Championships of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, September 25-October 10 at the Kentucky Horse Park.
The World Games 2010 Foundation worked in conjunction with officials from the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Airport, the US Department of Agriculture and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture to have the airport classed as a temporary port of entry for the horses coming to compete.
Almost 500 horses are anticipated to pass through this new temporary facility on their way to the Kentucky Horse Park. The horses will be coming from Europe and the Middle East through Belgium on non-stop flights. The first horses are scheduled to arrive on September 16th. Approximately 50 horses and their attendants will travel on each of these special flights into the airport.
The importation of horses into the US is supervised by the USDA in order to monitor the health of the animals. Horses that are imported from Europe and the Middle East via the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Airport must undergo at least a 42-hour quarantine upon arrival to the US. The quarantine facility will be managed by the KY Department of Agriculture in conjunction with the veterinarians from the World Games.
Horses may be imported into the United States provided they meet strict requirements. All horses must be accompanied by an official health certificate written in English. The official health certificate must be signed by a full-time veterinary officer of the national government of the country of export. These requirements and the quarantine period exist to guarantee the health and safety of animals already residing within the United States’ borders against health threats from other countries.
Upon arrival at the airport, all horses and equipment are immediately placed in the care of the USDA/Kentucky Department of Agriculture and veterinarians from the World Games, and are taken to the Quarantine Facility. Access to the animals is restricted to authorized personnel and the animal’s regular attendant, who must follow regulations and be supervised by a USDA/Kentucky Department of Agriculture or Games employee at all times. The facility is a high security area, surrounded by a double fence and 24-hour security.
After the quarantine period, if the animal is given approval, it will be transported to the Kentucky Horse Park to compete in the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.
Any imported horses suspected of having a communicable disease will be kept in quarantine and will not be transported to the Horse Park until the issue is resolved.
Lexington, KY–9 days to go–A temporary equine quarantine facility at the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Airport is ready to facilitate the entry of horses from around the world competing in the eight World Championships of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, September 25-October 10 at the Kentucky Horse Park.
The World Games 2010 Foundation worked in conjunction with officials from the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Airport, the US Department of Agriculture and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture to have the airport classed as a temporary port of entry for the horses coming to compete.
Almost 500 horses are anticipated to pass through this new temporary facility on their way to the Kentucky Horse Park. The horses will be coming from Europe and the Middle East through Belgium on non-stop flights. The first horses are scheduled to arrive on September 16th. Approximately 50 horses and their attendants will travel on each of these special flights into the airport.
The importation of horses into the US is supervised by the USDA in order to monitor the health of the animals. Horses that are imported from Europe and the Middle East via the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Airport must undergo at least a 42-hour quarantine upon arrival to the US. The quarantine facility will be managed by the KY Department of Agriculture in conjunction with the veterinarians from the World Games.
Horses may be imported into the United States provided they meet strict requirements. All horses must be accompanied by an official health certificate written in English. The official health certificate must be signed by a full-time veterinary officer of the national government of the country of export. These requirements and the quarantine period exist to guarantee the health and safety of animals already residing within the United States’ borders against health threats from other countries.
Upon arrival at the airport, all horses and equipment are immediately placed in the care of the USDA/Kentucky Department of Agriculture and veterinarians from the World Games, and are taken to the Quarantine Facility. Access to the animals is restricted to authorized personnel and the animal’s regular attendant, who must follow regulations and be supervised by a USDA/Kentucky Department of Agriculture or Games employee at all times. The facility is a high security area, surrounded by a double fence and 24-hour security.
After the quarantine period, if the animal is given approval, it will be transported to the Kentucky Horse Park to compete in the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.
Any imported horses suspected of having a communicable disease will be kept in quarantine and will not be transported to the Horse Park until the issue is resolved.
“The Greatest” Will Pack a Punch at the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games Opening Ceremonies
DATE: September 15, 2010
LEXINGTON, KY - 9 days to go - World-renowned boxing legend, humanitarian, global icon and Kentucky native Muhammad Ali will take center stage when the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games begin in Lexington, Ky., in nine days.
The Champ will join a cast of nearly 1,500 people, ages eight to 80, and almost 200 horses from as far away as Australia for an opening ceremonies celebration of dreams that will play tribute to the Games’ American debut with scenes of the prairie, Broadway, the Wild West, and the Deep South.
The show will journey through the history of horses and man as well as iconic moments in U.S. history and culture, beginning with America’s Native American heritage and a prayer for all nations by Lakota chiefs, and concluding with a Mardi Gras extravaganza that will see all cast members join together in a jubilant parade.
The two and a half hour show will include 40 different acts, including Kentuckian Wynonna Judd; opera stars Denyce Graves, Cynthia Lawrence and Ronan Tynan; Sara Lee Guthrie; Cherryholmes; and Jazz at Lincoln Center, among other notables.
“While the majority of our cast is ‘homegrown’ to showcase the talent bred in our Bluegrass region, this show will represent the global nature of the eight equestrian world championships,” said Dr. Everett McCorvey, executive producer of the opening and closing ceremonies. “We have an international collaboration of talent coming together and communicating through their artistry.”
Following in the tradition of World Equestrian Games’ opening ceremonies, a special musical score has been composed for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. McCorvey and his team entertained pieces from composers around the world and selected Jamie Burton of London, England. His “World Equestrian Games Fanfare” will debut at the opening ceremony with a 100-piece orchestra from the University of Kentucky.
Opening ceremony tickets are still available, but selling quickly. To secure your tickets today, please visit www.alltechfeigames.com or call 1-888-934-2010.
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 Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital. For more information on the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, please visit www.alltechfeigames.com
About the Muhammad Ali Center
Muhammad Ali and his wife, Lonnie, founded the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville, Kentucky in 2005. On behalf of Ali’s home state, the cultural and education center that bears his name, and one of the Center’s important international partners-Alltech—he proudly makes this significant Opening Ceremonies appearance, similar to his historic appearance at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, GA.
The Muhammad Ali Center is a cultural attraction and international education center that is inspired by the ideals of Muhammad Ali. Featuring an award-winning visitor experience, educational and public programming, and global initiatives, the Ali Center reaches beyond its physical walls to fulfill its mission: To preserve and share the legacy and ideals of Muhammad Ali, to promote respect, hope and understanding, and to inspire adults and children everywhere to be as great as they can be.
About Alltech
Founded by Dr. Pearse Lyons, Alltech is a global animal health and nutrition company with 30 years’ experience in developing natural products that are scientifically proven to enhance animal health and performance. Headquartered in Nicholasville, Alltech trades in 120 countries and has 2,300 employees worldwide.
LEXINGTON, KY - 9 days to go - World-renowned boxing legend, humanitarian, global icon and Kentucky native Muhammad Ali will take center stage when the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games begin in Lexington, Ky., in nine days.
The Champ will join a cast of nearly 1,500 people, ages eight to 80, and almost 200 horses from as far away as Australia for an opening ceremonies celebration of dreams that will play tribute to the Games’ American debut with scenes of the prairie, Broadway, the Wild West, and the Deep South.
The show will journey through the history of horses and man as well as iconic moments in U.S. history and culture, beginning with America’s Native American heritage and a prayer for all nations by Lakota chiefs, and concluding with a Mardi Gras extravaganza that will see all cast members join together in a jubilant parade.
The two and a half hour show will include 40 different acts, including Kentuckian Wynonna Judd; opera stars Denyce Graves, Cynthia Lawrence and Ronan Tynan; Sara Lee Guthrie; Cherryholmes; and Jazz at Lincoln Center, among other notables.
“While the majority of our cast is ‘homegrown’ to showcase the talent bred in our Bluegrass region, this show will represent the global nature of the eight equestrian world championships,” said Dr. Everett McCorvey, executive producer of the opening and closing ceremonies. “We have an international collaboration of talent coming together and communicating through their artistry.”
Following in the tradition of World Equestrian Games’ opening ceremonies, a special musical score has been composed for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. McCorvey and his team entertained pieces from composers around the world and selected Jamie Burton of London, England. His “World Equestrian Games Fanfare” will debut at the opening ceremony with a 100-piece orchestra from the University of Kentucky.
Opening ceremony tickets are still available, but selling quickly. To secure your tickets today, please visit www.alltechfeigames.com or call 1-888-934-2010.
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 Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital. For more information on the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, please visit www.alltechfeigames.com
About the Muhammad Ali Center
Muhammad Ali and his wife, Lonnie, founded the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville, Kentucky in 2005. On behalf of Ali’s home state, the cultural and education center that bears his name, and one of the Center’s important international partners-Alltech—he proudly makes this significant Opening Ceremonies appearance, similar to his historic appearance at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, GA.
The Muhammad Ali Center is a cultural attraction and international education center that is inspired by the ideals of Muhammad Ali. Featuring an award-winning visitor experience, educational and public programming, and global initiatives, the Ali Center reaches beyond its physical walls to fulfill its mission: To preserve and share the legacy and ideals of Muhammad Ali, to promote respect, hope and understanding, and to inspire adults and children everywhere to be as great as they can be.
About Alltech
Founded by Dr. Pearse Lyons, Alltech is a global animal health and nutrition company with 30 years’ experience in developing natural products that are scientifically proven to enhance animal health and performance. Headquartered in Nicholasville, Alltech trades in 120 countries and has 2,300 employees worldwide.
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