The 46th annual Washington International Horse Show (WIHS), the top U.S. year-end indoors finals hunter/jumper event, will take over the action at the MCI Center in downtown Washington, DC, beginning October 26 through October 31. Over 500 horses and riders will “bring the country to the city” as top international riders compete for over $400,000 in prize money in such feature events as:
• $20,000 Gambler’s Choice – Thursday evening 7:30pm
• $25,000 Puissance (horse high-jump) – Friday evening 7:30pm
• $25,000 Accumulator – Saturday afternoon 1:00 – 3:30pm
• $100,000 President’s Cup Grand Prix (World Cup qualifier) – Saturday evening 7:00pm

The WIHS will offer something for everyone--elite show jumping competition in the U.S., the final indoor show for amateur hunter and jumpers and thrilling fun-filled feature exhibitions, including a side-saddle Lipizzaner dressage; championship barrel racing, Jack Russell Terrier races; Equine Extremist who Roman rides; jumps fire and performs a hilarious riding instructor comedy act; shopping at over 60 specialty vendors; a silent auction, and much more.

Special competitions/promotions will add excitement to the week-long event. The Barn & Group Night competition, taking place during the Thursday evening performance, will be giving away over $10,000 in prizes. Groups (10 or more) receive a $5 discount off each ticket, compete in such group competitions as Best Group Spirit, Largest Group, Best Reason Why Group Should Win, and Grand Champion (best overall) Group. Random individual prizes will be awarded also. Tickets must be purchased and entry forms submitted through MCI Center Group Sales at (202) 661-5061.

A nonprofit organization, the 2004 WIHS will benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington, the Christopher Reeve Paralysis Foundation, NBC4’s Camp 4 Kids, The Good Samaritan Foundation and other charities.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.wihs.org.