Equestrian Sport Productions has begun the upgrade of both the Gene Mische Grand Hunter Arena and the Rost Arena with the world class "Poels" Footing that is currently installed in the Magavoro, Denemethy, and the International Arenas. Work commenced this week and will be completed by mid-December well in advance of Week 1 of the 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival, which begins on January 13, 2010.
Equestrian Services International, LLC, a Bart Poels Footing Company, will be installing the "pink" footing" in both rings and both schooling areas. The International Arena will also undergo a maintenance upgrade of the footing. Major upgrades for the footing in Rings 6, 7, and 8 have already been completed. The South Grounds will also receive ring maintenance and upgrades before WEF circuit.
Mark Bellissimo, CEO of Equestrian Sport Productions, LLC, commented, "the upgrade of these rings represents the continued commitment on behalf of our partnership, the Wellington Equestrian Partners, to create and maintain one of the premiere equestrian facilities in the world. Footing is one of the most important elements of our business, and it is our responsibility to provide footing that is not only safe for the horses and riders but also brings out their finest performance."
The enhancements will allow ESP management to more effectively rotate the five rings between the top hunter, equitation, and jumper disciplines giving horses and riders more diversity in setting during the 12-week circuit. It was also announced that Reist Industries, Inc., has signed on as a new sponsor for the FTI Winter Equestrian Festival. Reist will be supplying the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center with a new generation of high-end ring groomers that will allow the ring maintenance crews to more consistently groom/fluff the surface of the Poel's footing based on current weather conditions. ESP will also be assembling a group of veterinarians to gather feedback on best practices and standards for its ring grooming staff.
ESP has also begun work on a major road and drainage project within the site that will enhance safety for horses, riders, and spectators during inclement weather. The perimeter road that circles all rings will be paved, which will increase safety by allowing emergency vehicles to travel on roads without potholes. Finally, all wash stalls will be covered and connected to the village sewer system, which will prevent flooding around the stabling areas and will improve the water quality for the surrounding lake system. The road and drainage projects are utilizing recycled materials provided by Southern Waste Systems, a new Palm Beach International Equestrian Center sponsor.
For more information please contact Equestrian Sport Productions at www.equestriansport.com or call (561) 795-0783.