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.
Friday, September 17, 2010
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.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
US Horse and Rider Withdraw from Selection Process for WEC
Thursday September 16 2010
Sir Smith (Smitty) has been withdrawn from consideration for the US Endurance Team for the World Endurance Championship. Sir Smith injured himself slightly either in his stall or turnout a week ago. The hind end lameness did not appear to be serious and appeared to get better, but it showed up again today. Rider Jeremy Reynolds formally withdrew him today. Wife Heather Reynolds said, "It would not be fair to Smitty, the team or himself to do this [warm Sir Smith up well so he'd trot out sound] for our final trot out on Friday morning. It was very improbable that Smitty would be able to go 100 miles in 10 days looking the way he does."
The Reynolds have another horse among the 8 riders and 10 horses vying for a slot on the US Team - Heather and Ssamiam.
Cici Butler Stasiuk and DJB Cytron Kon JMF also withdrew last week when Cytron came up with a lameness.
Tomorrow the 5 horse and rider teams for the WEC will be chosen at Shaker Village tomorrow.
- Merri Melde
Sir Smith (Smitty) has been withdrawn from consideration for the US Endurance Team for the World Endurance Championship. Sir Smith injured himself slightly either in his stall or turnout a week ago. The hind end lameness did not appear to be serious and appeared to get better, but it showed up again today. Rider Jeremy Reynolds formally withdrew him today. Wife Heather Reynolds said, "It would not be fair to Smitty, the team or himself to do this [warm Sir Smith up well so he'd trot out sound] for our final trot out on Friday morning. It was very improbable that Smitty would be able to go 100 miles in 10 days looking the way he does."
The Reynolds have another horse among the 8 riders and 10 horses vying for a slot on the US Team - Heather and Ssamiam.
Cici Butler Stasiuk and DJB Cytron Kon JMF also withdrew last week when Cytron came up with a lameness.
Tomorrow the 5 horse and rider teams for the WEC will be chosen at Shaker Village tomorrow.
- Merri Melde
Great Britain: Christine Yeoman and Gai Forest Cleared
Endurancegb.co.uk16th September 2010
Following a long process of appeal with the FEI, Christine Yeoman has been cleared of any negligence relating to the positive test of her horse Gai Forest with ractopamine in 2009.
This is fantastic news and we wish Chris and the rest of the team the best of luck in Kentucky
Horses Arriving for World Equestrian Games
September 16, 2010
The temporary quarantine facility at the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Airport is ready to receive the first of its nearly 500 equine guests today in the lead-up to the World Equestrian Games in Lexington.
The games start on September 25 and run through to October 10 at the Kentucky Horse Park.
The airport has been classed as a temporary port of entry for the horses heading to compete at the games.
Last Friday the first group of eight horses representing Chile and Guatemala in Endurance arrived at the Kentucky Horse Park. The horses had been quarantined in Miami since their flight to the United States and travelled via trailer to Kentucky.
The first horses from Europe and the Middle East are scheduled to arrive today via non-stop flights from Belgium. About 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 US Department of Agriculture 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 Kentucky Department of Agriculture in conjunction with the veterinarians from the World Games...
Read more here:
http://www.horsetalk.co.nz/news/2010/09/080.shtml
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