Royal Red another crowning achievement

Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food

The 2006 edition of the Canadian National Arabian and Half-Arabian Horse Show, otherwise known as the “Royal Red,” is now in the books. By all accounts, this year’s event, held August 21-26 in Regina, was another smashing success.

“We attracted approximately 1,000 of the finest horses in North America, along with several thousand exhibitors; and we had fantastic fan support, the best I’ve ever seen,” said Bill Hutchinson, Chair of the Royal Red Host Committee.

But with the 2006 show now successfully behind them, the event’s organizers will be busy preparing a bid to secure a new multi-year contract for the city to host the show into the future.

Hutchinson noted that the current contract with the Arabian Horse Association (AHA), the organization that oversees the competitions and shows, is coming to an end.

“The current contract is for five years, and (the AHA) had two option years. They have exercised that option to pick up those final two years. That will take us through 2007 and 2008,” he said.

“The next major milestone in our relationship with the AHA is to try to secure a new multi-year contract to retain the show in Regina. And we expect that we will likely have to prepare a bid and make our presentation over the course of the coming winter.”

Hutchinson feels the ongoing success of the Royal Red will help the city make a good impression on the decision-makers.

“One of the main advantages that Regina has is our central location on the continent. Another advantage we have is one of Canada’s largest agricultural facilities. And, something that the Arabian Horse Association appreciates very much, is the dedication and the professionalism of the staff at Ipsco Place,” he said.

“So we have a variety of pluses to offer them, in addition to the activities that are carried out by our great volunteer army and the Royal Red Host Committee.”

Hutchinson added that the friendliness and hospitality of Saskatchewan people is also a tremendous asset to event organizers.

“There are two kinds of support [participants] really appreciate. They really appreciate the fan support – the fact that people care enough about the show and love the horses enough to come and participate is very much appreciated and noticed by our competitors,” he said.

“The other kind of support that they really comment upon is the support in the public. Everybody in this community knows that the Royal Red is in town, everybody knows that there are people from all over North America coming to compete in this show, and they readily offer their support and hospitality. If people need assistance finding their way, figuring out where to eat or shop – all sorts of very kind, friendly, neighbourly advice is offered to our guests. They notice this very much, and it’s one of our strongest selling points as a host city.”

Hutchinson stated that an ambitious plan for the renewal of facilities at Ipsco Place will also be an important part of their pitch. “The AHA is always very conscious of the state of the facilities where it puts on its shows. When you’re bringing in animals of this quality and this value, it simply has to be a major factor in your decision-making.”

Hutchinson pointed out that the Royal Red is truly one of the continent’s premier equine events. “It is the largest show of its kind in Canada, and one of the top [horse] shows in North America,” he said.

“Because of its international prestige, the show attracts participants from all over Canada and the U.S. We’ve seen people from as far away as Alaska, California and Florida, and the maritime provinces.”

But according to Hutchinson, some of the best competitors come from right here in the province. “We always have fabulous competition from Saskatchewan horse owners. They’re right up there with the best.”

Hutchinson also noted the tremendous economic contribution the Royal Red makes to Regina and Saskatchewan each year, estimated to be around $10 million. In addition, spectators from all over the province get treated to an amazing, one-of-a-kind experience, he said.

“There are some really terrific benefits for Regina and all of Saskatchewan from hosting this event,” Hutchinson stated. “We should feel very honoured to host it, but also very proud of the tremendous show we put on year after year.”

For further information, contact:
Bill Hutchinson, Chair
Royal Red Host Committee
Phone: (306) 584-1739 or (306) 781-6400