All Horses Pass Galway Downs First Inspection + Spectacular Facility Upgrades

John Filer and Glitteratti. Photo by Sherry Stewart. John Filer and Glitteratti. Photo by Sherry Stewart.

All horses passed the first inspection today at the Galway Downs International Three-Day Event on a beautiful afternoon in Temecula, California. With the 2016 Olympic Games behind us, the CCI3* field boasts fewer entries than in years past, but Ian Stark’s cross country course is sure to dazzle the spectators amidst numerous improvements to the facility.

For those who haven’t visited the venue recently, owner Ken Smith and organizer Robert Kellerhouse have worked tirelessly to boost Galway Downs to one of the top eventing facilities in the country. From an on-site restaurant, stunning concert and event facilities, and a gorgeous grass show jumping arena to complete the picture, Galway Downs has seriously transformed. Cick here and scroll down to see the upgrades to the venue.

Cross country fences amidst the oasis on the new Galway Downs derby field. Photo by Ann Haller.

Cross country fences amidst the oasis on the new Galway Downs derby field. Photo by Ann Haller.

“Ken really wanted to enhance the Galway Downs experience, as well as give local non-equestrians more reasons to come out and enjoy themselves,” Robert said. “The new KenTina offers a great atmosphere, good food and live music on Friday nights. The wedding and special event facility is a beautiful option for those that want to plan a unique celebration, and there was a local wine tasting last month that was a huge hit.

“Of course, the horses are always a priority, and the new Bermuda grass footing in the derby field is maybe the biggest investment and addition. Everyone who has ridden on it so far is just raving about it. Ian Stark borrowed a horse from my wife Erin to go out galloping around, and he really seemed pleased with the quality of the footing.”

Another view of the new derby field. Photo by Ann Haller.

Another view of the new derby field. Photo by Ann Haller.

Hawley Bennett-Awad has already taken a spin on the new grass arena and given it two thumbs up: “We rode in a jumper show last weekend here in the grass arena and it was awesome. The horses really handled the footing well, and their canter stride really seemed to open up. They have really done a lot of work here and it shows.”

Keep it locked on EN for much more from Galway Downs! We’re excited to partner with Sherry Stewart to bring you beautiful images throughout the weekend, and Maggie Deatrick’s predictions for who will take home the CCI3* win will go live tomorrow. Keep scrolling for a photo gallery from this afternoon’s first horse inspection. Go Galway Downs! Go Eventing.

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