The Washington International Horse Show, one of the world’s leading equestrian events, will remain at Verizon Center, its home since 2000, for at least two more years. The contract extension ensures the show will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2008 in the heart of Washington, D.C., its namesake city.

“Washington has been our home for almost half a century, and we are so pleased to be able to continue this very special equestrian tradition in this historic city. Verizon Center is part of our tradition and the perfect showcase for the special events we are planning for our 50th anniversary celebration,” said Jorge Carnicero, Chairman of the Board of the Washington International Horse Show.

Held in October, the Washington International Horse Show (WIHS) is a year-end championship event with more than 600 horses and top national and international riders, including Olympic and World Cup medalists. The six-day event includes show jumping, hunter, equitation and dressage competition, as well as entertaining exhibitions, an educational pavilion and unique shopping. WIHS is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization benefiting local and national charities. The 2007 show will take place October 8-14.

"We're extremely excited and proud that the Washington International Horse Show will continue to call the Verizon Center home," said Washington Sports and Entertainment Chairman Abe Pollin. "Our goal has always been to bring a wide variety of outstanding events to the nation's capital, and the Washington International Horse Show—a unique and storied event—continues that tradition. The Washington International Horse Show has partnered with us since 1975 to create one of the world's most prestigious equestrian events, and we are thrilled that they will continue to bring this world class event to Washington, D.C."

Since its inception in 1958, the Washington International Horse Show has been held in three local venues. Its original home was the Washington D.C. Armory. In 1975, it began a 25-year run at the more spacious U.S. Air Arena (Capital Centre) in Prince George’s county. Since 2000, the show has been held at the state-of-the-art Verizon Center (MCI Center) in downtown Washington, D.C.

"For close to 50 years, the Washington International has held a place of prominence in the equestrian community,” said Bill Moroney, member of the WIHS Board of Directors. “Equestrians of all ages aspire to compete at this meeting of champions. Horse enthusiasts from all over the Washington area, as well as throughout the U.S. and abroad, come to the WIHS at the Verizon Center to witness first hand head-to-head competition between the best show jumpers in the world. The WIHS provides the excitement of being in downtown Washington and our exhibitors and audience continue to support this important event."

For more information about the Washington International Horse Show, visit www.wihs.org or call (301) 987-9400.


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