Equestrian Sport Productions announced Tuesday that its Fall Circuit shows will be held at the South Grounds of the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center.

The "A"-rated three-star Jumper Fall Circuit 2 for this Friday through Sunday will be held at the South Grounds, as will Fall Circuit 3, which is scheduled for October 31-November 2 and the Fall Circuit Finale scheduled for November 7-9.

Major reconstruction around the International Arena, installation of new footing at several competition and warm-up rings and other renovations, including vendor areas prompted the move of the Fall Circuit shows to the South Grounds.

Major Improvements in All Spectator Seating Options
The number of VIP boxes is being increased dramatically to about 100 as part of major reconstruction to improve all spectator viewing areas of the International Arena at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center.

Large increases in spectator areas, including general admission seats, sponsor chalets and the International Club, became possible by moving seating all around the arena 30 feet closer without reducing the competition arena and its Olympic-quality footing. The reconstruction will also create a more intimate atmosphere in the showcase arena.

Changes in the spectator viewing areas will be completed within about a month, well before the start of the Holiday Series on December 3, whose five weeks of shows lead into the 2009 Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) and its schedule of international-quality jumper, hunter and dressage events.

The boxes will be on two levels in front of and below the International Club on the west side of the arena and two levels on either side of the bridge on the north side. Fifty-five of the boxes will be covered and a decision on covering the remainder will be made next year.

Expansion of spectator areas also allows an increase in the width of the boxes to nine feet from eight feet to more comfortably seat eight people&mdashfour in two rows—in new chairs. Wrought iron railing across the front of the boxes will be 30 inches high, 12 inches lower than the countertop walls at WEF in 2008.

Limited food and beverage service by staff may also be available to box holders during night classes and selected Sunday events.

About 40 of the boxes are reserved for current boxholders.

However, the remaining boxes are available for $6,800 each—$850 per seat—for all events during the 12 weeks of 2009 WEF with the exception of the World Dressage Masters at the end of January. First option renewals in the future will go to existing boxholders.

Plans are being drawn up for several hundred "limited" reserved seats on the north and east sides of the arena. The goal is to offer WEF members advance reservations for the season (except the World Dressage Masters).

New permanent stadium-style seats are more comfortable than the seats at 2008 WEF and also have cup holders.

Consideration is also being given to other changes in long standing spectator policies, including extending free general admission for most daytime events from Wednesday through Friday.

Other areas for general admission viewing around the International Arena are also being provided, including around the horseshoe bank, under a new Jumbotron that will be located near the entrance, on the bridge and areas between the bridge and the International Club.

Boxes can be reserved online at www.equestriansport.com or by telephoning Annette Goyette at (561) 793-5867.

Other seating options will be announced when final decisions are made.