This year marked the 10th anniversary of the Gulf Coast Winter Classics, a six-week long horse show in Harrison County, Mississippi. And while participation at other winter horse shows has been down, show organizers Bob Bell and Janet McCarroll have said their numbers were up. They expected a $42 million economic impact on the local economy.
Beginning February 4 and lasting through March 15, the show offered USEF AA rated shows with a $25,000 Grand Prix each week, as well as additional prize money. Weekly participation was estimated at 2,000 people from around the country and 700 to 1,000 horses, with an increase in numbers on the weekends.
Show organizers attribute the tremendous success of their show, especially this year, in part to the inexpensive cost of hotels, food, gas and amenities on the Gulf Coast. They have also been very pleased with the conditions and staff at the Harrison County Fairgrounds. In addition to the first-class show, the participants enjoy everything South Mississippi offers outside the competition, including the casinos, beaches and shopping.
For more information on the Gulf Coast Winter Classics, visit www.ClassicCompany.com.
