Via press release:
Today marks the exciting start of the 31st Capital Challenge Horse Show (CCHS), running from September 26th to October 6th, at The Showplace Arena at Prince George’s Equestrian Center in Upper Marlboro. The Arena will also host the 66th Annual Washington International Horse Show from October 21st to October 27th. These annual events not only highlight top equestrian talent, but also significantly contributes to the local economy.
A recent study conducted by Dr. Stephen S. Fuller, University Professor Emeritus at George Mason University, highlights the significant economic contributions of the 2023 Capital Challenge Horse Show (CCHS) and the 2023 Washington International Horse Show (WIHS) to Prince George’s County. These prestigious equestrian events, held from September 28 to October 8 and October 23 to 29, respectively, collectively generated over $24.5 million for the local economy.
[INFOGRAPHIC: Maryland Horse Industry, The Power of Horses]
“The infusion of nearly $25 million into our local economy is indicative of our commitment to promoting equestrian excellence while strengthening our community’s vitality,” said Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks. “These events bring visitors from across the nation and beyond, showcasing the best of what our county has to offer. My Administration remains dedicated to fostering a thriving environment for sports tourism, and we are excited to see how the 2024 Capital Challenge and the Washington International Horse Show will further enhance our reputation as a premier destination for equestrian events.”
The 30th CCHS and the 65th WIHS exhibited world-class equestrian talent and brought together participants, spectators, and vendors from within the United States and around the world.
Key Economic Highlights
- Total Direct Outlays: An estimated $17.1 million was directly spent by the horse shows and their attendees.
- Total Economic Impact: The overall economic impact reached approximately $24.6 million, reflecting a multiplier effect of 1.435. This means every dollar spent generated an additional $1.44 for the local economy.
- Job Creation: The events supported 3 full-time equivalent jobs, with about 101.6 of these positions held by County residents.
- Personal Earnings: Local workers benefitted from $5.25 million in new personal earnings due to the spending associated with the horse shows.
Visitor Statistics:
The CCHS attracted 1,732 participants and 1,437 horses from 48 states and several countries, with about 96% hailing from outside of Maryland. The WIHS welcomed 710 participants and 487 horses, with 91% from other states. Both shows attracted substantial spectator numbers, including an estimated 15,000 attendees for the WIHS, further bolstering local businesses.
“This data underscores the crucial role that events like the Capital Challenge and the Washington International Horse Show play in boosting the economy of Prince George’s County,” said Leslie Graves, CEO of Experience Prince George’s. “These shows not only support local businesses, but they also elevate our reputation as a premier destination for sports tourism.”
The influx of visitors contributed significantly to local hospitality sectors, including hotels, restaurants, and retail establishments. The economic activity generated by these horse shows extends well beyond their duration, fostering year-round growth in the community.
About the Shows
The Capital Challenge Horse Show, an official United States Equestrian Federation Heritage Competition, has a distinct and unique focus on preeminent hunter and equitation competition, while the Washington International Horse Show holds the distinguished title of being the only indoor International Equestrian Federation World Cup Qualifier in the United States, and carries the top CSI5* rating, featuring top-level international competition.
