NC to host 2018 World Equestrian Games

CHARLOTTE, NC (WWAY) – The 2018 World Equestrian Games will be held in North Carolina as a replacement venue after the withdrawal of Bromont, Quebec, in July for financial reasons.

The International Equestrian Federation says its ruling bureau awarded the event to the Tryon International Equestrian Center in Mill Spring.

The games, held every four years, combine eight world championships in jumping, dressage and para-equestrian dressage, eventing, driving, endurance, vaulting and reining.

Governor Pat McCrory joined state and local economic development leaders today to celebrate the announcement.

“I am confident that North Carolina will host the best games yet before the eyes of the world,” said Governor McCrory. “With the potential to be the largest sporting event in our state’s history, we look forward to welcoming competitors and spectators from around the world. This announcement will be a significant boost to North Carolina’s rapidly growing economy.”

Two years ago, the Games were hosted by Normandy, France. The 14-day event had an economic impact of $414 million and attracted more than 500,000 spectators from over 70 countries.

FEI attributed their decision to North Carolina’s infrastructure and the state-of-the-art facilities at Tryon International Equestrian Center.

“We are thrilled with this news and thank the FEI Bureau for having faith in us and entrusting us with the honor of hosting this prestigious event,” said Mark Bellissimo, founder of Tryon Equestrian Center. “It’s a really great fit for North Carolina’s equestrian heritage and we look forward to working closely with the FEI and with the USEF to produce fabulous FEI World Equestrian Games in 2018.”

The two-week competition has also been switched from mid-August to September 10-23.

The FEI has opted for North Carolina despite some United States college sports organizations withdrawing championships because of a state law restricting LGBT people’s rights.