North Carolina has long been home to some of the finest horse country in the US. And now, the western NC mountain region has gained international recognition. Late last year, the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI), headquartered in Switzerland, announced that the FEI World Equestrian Games has been awarded to Tryon, NC for 2018.
FEI World Equestrian Games
The event, held every four years between Olympic cycles, features eight equestrian disciplines. With Jumping, Dressage and Para-Dressage, Eventing, Driving, Endurance, Vaulting, and Reining, the FEI World Equestrian Games is on of the largest global sporting events held. The event will be held at the Tryon International Equestrian Center in NC from September 10th -23rd. The facility, a 1,600-acre site at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, has 1200 permanent stables, 12 arenas, seating for up to 12,000 spectators, and a world-class cross country course. In addition to retail shops and restaurants for the humans, a state-of-the-art veterinary facility is under construction and should be completed by the event date.
Originally slated to occur in Canada, the FEI Games were awarded to the Tryon Center in Mill Spring, NC, after funding issues for the Canada plan. With less than two years before the event, organizers were mindful of selecting a location that had existing infrastructure to handle the event and the associated spectators. In supporting the selection, the FEI president stated, “The Tryon team submitted a really impressive bid, and we have every confidence in the organizing committee. It’s a truly spectacular venue and almost all the necessary infrastructure for our eight disciplines is already in place.” The 2014 FEI Games, held in Normandy, captured a television audience of 350 million and generated significant income for the region.
For western NC, it’s a chance to show off the incredible equestrian facilities and local talents that exist in the area. And for local residents, it’s an opportunity to observe the top equestrians in the world as they vie for the title of World Champion in their discipline. For more information about the event, check out the FEI webpage for details.
Historic Steeplechase in Tryon
And if you can’t wait two years for your next equestrian event, you might want to check out the 71st Tryon Block House Races. This steeplechase event, which combines speed and horse agility over a track with jumping obstacles, will be held at the Tryon Riding & Hunt Club on Saturday April 15, 2017. Mark your calendars for this historic event that displays equine and rider agility. Tickets for this event are already on sale and more information can be obtained on the Block House Races website.
If you’re interested in attending either of these events and don’t live locally, it’s not too early to start making your rental plans now. Rather than stay in a hotel, why not make a full vacation of the events and tryout one of Greybeard Rentals’ western NC rental homes. With our varied selection, you can bring a large group or find that special secluded home as a respite from the event crowds. To select the rental home that best suits your needs, use the advanced search option that allows you to choose the location and amenities you want. And as always, feel free to contact Greybeard Rentals for assistance in making that selection. Also, our Greybeard Event calendar can assist you in planning your whole trip itinerary. There’s lot’s more horsing around the Asheville area you might enjoy!
