TEMECULA, Calif., March 16, 2006 (PRIMEZONE) -- The FEI Eventing World Cup at the Galway Downs International Horse Trials will have something for everyone when the three-day equestrian event opens on March 31.
More than 350 riders from seven countries and their horses will compete for more than $35,000 in cash and prizes at Galway Downs, a world class equestrian facility in Temecula that has hosted the prestigious World Cup Series events for the past three years.
The FEI Eventing World Cup Qualifier includes dressage, cross-country, and show jumping.
But the three-day event also will include a Pet Expo complete with Frisbee-catching and sheep-herding dogs, along with 60 vendors with the latest pet products.
"Whether you are a horse lover, a family or a pet owner looking for an entertaining and informative way to spend a weekend, the International Horse Trials and Pet Expo will have a little bit for everyone," promises Robert Kellerhouse, event organizer.
The expo will include demonstrations on puppy care, obedience training and reptile handling. There will also be an exhibitor who performs deep tissue Reiki massage on pets and their owners as well as a pet communicator.
In addition to a children's petting zoo, Jolly Jump and llama exhibit, the event will include a food court that offers everything from kettle corn and gourmet coffee to shaved iced treats and gourmet food provided by Presto's, a Temecula-based caterer.
Well-mannered, leashed pets are welcome.
Galway Downs is the site of one of only four World Cup Series events in North America in which riders will be vying for a place in the finals to be held in Malmo, Sweden in September 2006.
Galway Downs also joins an elite selection of 12 venues nationwide to host Adequan USEAI Gold Cup Series divisions and is one of four in the Pacific Group. The Adequan USEA Gold Cup Series, presented by the United States Eventing Association (USEA), offers competitors an opportunity to earn points towards the title of Gold Cup Champion at intermediate and advanced level.
Admission for the Pet Expo and FEI Eventing World Cup Qualifier is $10. Seniors and children under 6 are free. A family pass is only $20.
Advanced tickets purchased online at www.galwaydowns.com are $5 each with the coupon code Galway.
Hours: Friday March 31 -- 9-5; Saturday April 1 -- 9-6; Sunday April 2 -- 9-5.
Directions from Temecula, California: Off of I-15 take Hwy 79 South (Indio Exit) 6 miles to Los Caballos Road and turn left. Go 1/2 mile to Los Corralitos Road and turn right follow signs into Galway Downs.
For more information on the event go online at www.galwaydowns.com or call 951-303-0405. Media interested in attending should call Don McAuliffe at (951) 302-1045 to reserve parking and admission passes.