Colossal Equine Affair to Bridge the Gap Between Breeds

Ontario’s growing equine industry cares for nearly 300,000 horses. The time has come to serve this industry with a major annual equine event that offers solutions and product for horse owners of all breeds. The focus will be on access, education and a wide display of breeds. The variety of horses to be showcased will highlight both the diversity of the industry and their common bond: the love of horses.

Can-Am Equine Marketing Inc. in conjunction with Equine Research Centre, University of Guelph, Jamco Trailers, System Fencing, Granton Trailers and the Western Fair are pleased to present the first annual "Can-Am Equine Emporium" to be held at the Western Fairgrounds, London Ontario March 13 through March 16, 2003. A trade fair will be the backdrop for a stellar line up of special guest speakers from across North America. Topics concerning the all-breed equine industry will focus on nutrition, training, equine health and current research, farm and stallion management, horse ownership, sponsorship, event organization, semen transportation, transport and job opportunities.

"Ontario’s horse industry is more than ready for a major educational event and emporium," said Paul Maguire of Can-Am Equine, a Woodstock-based event and marketing company. "Ontario has a large and vibrant horse industry that is increasing every year. New horse owners with limited animal husbandry and are looking for answers. The established horse owner will also benefit, being able to find solutions and product all offered under one roof."

Can-Am Equine has reserved over 100,000 sq. feet of state-of-the-art trade show and presentation areas at the London Event Centre. Exhibitors will be provided with space to make special group presentations. These areas will be equipped with a public address system, slide projection equipment, video equipment and seating for 40 to 300 people.

"The Western Fair grounds will provide a spectacular venue for vendors, individuals and Associations to sell and promote their products and services," said Maguire. "Timing is everything, and March should suit all breeds as a time to advertise their events, and vendors for promoting product and equipment for the year 2003. It will also be a wonderful opportunity for horse owners to stock up for the riding season ahead."

The four-day event will run Thursday through Sunday. Passes can be purchased by the day, or as a four-day pass.

Thursday: A "meet and greet" wine and cheese gathering for exhibitors, sponsors and other honored guests.

Friday: A dinner and silent auction to raise funds for equine research. This event will honor equine "stars" in different sports, and a special presentation will be made to recognize the sports represented.

Saturday: A special night and dinner at the top of the fair watching the races. Between each race a selected breed will be recognized and a cooler presentation made. Proceeds from this event will go to the Equine Research Centre.

www.erc.on.ca