Gaithersburg, MD, March 5,
2009 –The Washington International Horse Show (WIHS), a major equestrian event
based in Washington, D.C. since 1958, generates nearly $7 million in economic
impact to the District of Columbia annually, according to a recent study
conducted by Stephen S. Fuller, Ph.D., Dwight Schar Faculty Chair and Director
of the Center for Regional Analysis at George Mason University in Fairfax, VA.
“During these difficult
economic times, it was important for the show to evaluate its spending and its
positive financial impact on the city. We want to ensure that the show not
only continues to thrive but also contributes to
very happy with Dr. Fuller’s findings,” said Juliet W. Reid, President, WIHS.
“The direct spending by WIHS
to stage the show in October 2008 and the spending by vendors, exhibitors,
competitors and attendees while in the city participating or attending the show
generate significant economic benefits for the District of Columbia economy,”
said Fuller.“The impact of the show also
underscores the interdependence of the region. The show’s unique offering, a
competition including Olympic and professional riders, attracts visitors from
the suburbs, who attend the show and in so doing, rediscover the benefits of
the District and then return again and again throughout the year.”
The study examined total
outlays for the six-day horse show, which included staging the show, outlays by
more than 50 vendors and 1,500 exhibitors and competitors, and on- and off-site
spending by 20,000 attendees for consumer goods and services. The total value
of goods and services generated directly and indirectly was $6.7 million for
the 2008 event. The show’s economic impact also included $730,000 in new
personal earnings benefiting workers residing in the city and supported 36
full-time, year-round equivalent jobs locally and elsewhere in the broader
economy.
“The Washington International
Horse Show is a cornerstone of equestrian competition in the
Executive of WIHS. “For decades, this year-end indoor horse show has been the
engine driving horse show competition from coast to coast. Horse trainers and riders
work hard each year to qualify to show in this prestigious event,” he said.
“Our immediate goals for 2009 are to continue the event’s proud traditions
while reaching out to the city and community to build new business
relationships that will benefit both the horse show and the greater
The Washington International
Horse Show Association, Ltd. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. The 51st
WIHS will be held Oct. 20-25, 2009, at
About the
An equestrian tradition since
1958, the Washington International Horse Show attracts horses and riders of all
ages, including Olympic champions from all over the world. They travel to the
nation’s capital for thrilling jumping competition and a chance to compete
for more than $400,000 in prize money and championship titles. About 500 horses
participate in show jumping, hunters, equitation and dressage events during the
six-day show. Special exhibitions, unique boutique shopping, community and
charity events as well as a Pony Pavilion with free pony rides round out this
family-friendly show. Since its debut, the Washington International Horse Show has
been a popular
ladies, celebrities, business and military leaders, as well as countless horse
enthusiasts of all ages. For more information, visit https://www.wihs.org
