International Friesian Show Horse Association's (IFSHA) Grand National Horse Show Manager, Gareth A. Selwood, is pleased to announce that the third annual International Friesian Show Horse Association’s Grand National Horse Show will be held November 10-12, 2006, at the incredible “state of the art” South Coast Casino and Equestrian Center in South Las Vegas, NV.

Room block pricing for Friesian enthusiasts can be seen at www.southcoastcasino.com. The facility is located in the heart of the premier southwest Las Vegas valley, just minutes away from the famous Las Vegas Strip. Amenities include a sixteen-screen Century theater movie complex, 64-lane bowling center and a handful of restaurants that cater to all tastes and appetites. The casino features a large selection of game tables and the latest slot and video poker machines. This distinctive hotel features spacious rooms and suites with 42-inch plasma televisions.

There will be 124 national championship classes offered over the three days. The official prize list can be downloaded from the IFSHA website at www.friesianshowhorse.org. Exhibitor parties, membership meetings and exhibitions will fill in any of the free time in the schedule. Dressage, carriage, saddle deat, Western and hunter classes will be offered for both pure and part-bred Friesians coming from all over the U.S. and Canada. Fantasy, armored and non-armored classes are always a favorite with the crowd and the exhibitors.

United States Equestrian Federation judges Cecile Hetzel-Dunn, Sue Burkman, Lore Homer and Paula Lacy will officiate all of the classes offered. Equestrian photographer Rick Osteen will capture the magic moments with his camera along with Classic Video Company recording video footage of the event. Doug Shane, now of Cripple Creek, CO, but once a long-time resident of Las Vegas will act as master of ceremonies, announcer and storyteller, adding his special touch to the long weekend.

An exhibitor’s party sponsored by Friesian Focus’s Joan Fernandez and Lance Bennett will last into the wee hours following Friday’s championship classes.

Annette Coester will bring together the artistry of the ballet combined with the raw power and grace of the Friesian breed on Saturday night when she directs horses, riders and dancers in the “Believe in Magic” show at 7:00 p.m. in the main arena. This promises to be an equine musical fantasy you won’t forget. Tickets can be purchased at www.southcoastcasino.com.

During the weekend, a silent auction of Friesian stallion services and myriad of donated items will be bid on to raise money for the show. This is a great way to support IFSHA and plan next year’s breeding season.

Vendors from far and wide will be on hand to sell Friesian tack, collectibles, art, books and much more at the vendor trade fair on the concourse overlooking the show arena. The trade fair offers visitors a chance to start Christmas shopping early.

Sponsors are still needed and are encouraged to participate in this great event by contacting Gareth Selwood at [email protected].


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