The popular “Fiesta of the Spanish Horse,” an annual benefit and horse show to support cancer research, ran May 1-4, 2008, at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center in Burbank, CA, and attracted thousands of spectators and participants. This year marked the 10th Annual Fiesta, a revered Southern California equestrian tradition that raises funds for multiple cancer research organizations.

More than 260 Spanish horses from across the country, including Andalusian, Lusitano, Paso Fino and Peruvian Paso, competed in the horse show. A Saturday evening extravaganza, the capstone of the event was attended by nearly 3,600 people and featured an entertaining and educational multi-cultural celebration of the Spanish horse, and a wide range of equestrian exhibitions, celebrities, food, music, dancing and vendors.

Exhibitions for the fast-paced, diverse Saturday extravaganza included classical dressage; a performance by Medieval Times; heart-stopping trick riding; Charro demonstrations; a colorful side saddle presentation by Excaramuza; USC’s mascot Traveler® (the Andalusian gelding received a standing ovation as the USC Band played Conquest), and a moving tribute to the cancer survivors in attendance, many of whom entered the arena on horseback.

In addition to show and extravaganza proceeds, the Fiesta also raised nearly $15,000 through a Miniature horse raffle (won by Micky McFarland of Santa Barbara, CA) and a silent auction.

Results from the multi-breed horseshow are available on www.horseshowtime.com.