Equestrian Games generated $200M for Kentucky economy

LEXINGTON, Ky. - The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games had a positive impact on Kentucky's economy.

Gov. Steve Beshear said Monday that the event held at the Kentucky Horse Park had an economic impact of $201.5 million.

The World Equestrian Games were held Sept. 25 through Oct. 10, 2010, the first time the international event had been held outside of Europe. The games are composed of eight events - dressage, driving, endurance, eventing, jumping, para dressage, reining and vaulting.

The Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet and the Alltech World Equestrian Games Foundation reported more than 400,000 spectators at the events.

The economic impact included $128.2 million spent at the horse park, hotels, restaurants, shopping centers and retail outlets. More than $55 million was spent on tickets, food, souvenirs and other items.