Significant Investment Planned for Both Thermal and Tucson
August 9, 2019 – Thermal, CA & Tucson, AZ – Four committed West Coast equestrian families, whose vision is horse first and a fabulous experience for all, have come together to form Apex Equisport for the purpose of acquiring the HITS Sunshine, Desert and Arizona Circuits as well as the facility located in Thermal, CA. The purchase, effective immediately, results in a new management team ready to produce the upcoming National Sunshine Series beginning October 30, 2019 at what will now be known as The Desert International Horse Park.
Excited for the challenge and focused on the upcoming events in 2019/2020, the wheels will be turning, both literally and figuratively, as the new team prepares to host the two week National Sunshine Series in October-November 2019, the eight week Desert Circuit in the winter of 2020; as well as the Arizona Winter Circuit at the Pima County Fairgrounds, for six weeks of the 2020 winter season.
“We appreciate the collaboration we have had with Tom and his team to complete the acquisition and look forward to working with the equestrian communities on the West Coast to develop and enhance the facilities, competition, and experience in both Thermal and Tucson,” Steve Hankin, Managing Partner, explains. ”We know that the Sunshine Series is just around the corner, so we are fully focused on getting ready.”
He noted that the plans for the upcoming season will be announced over the next several weeks, and the Sunshine Series prize list will be available in late August.
Hankin emphasized that this may be the end of the negotiations but it is the beginning of a new journey. “We’ll share more about our plans and work to make sure we meet the high expectations that everyone has for these events. The work to evolve the shows will take several years and we’ll actively involve our trainers, exhibitors, vendors, and sponsors in our efforts.”
Hankin noted, “These circuits are cornerstone events for the West Coast. We have a strong group that is focused on ensuring the shows and facility are set up to provide a safe and healthy environment for horses first.”
Struzzieri will be focusing on his East Coast entities – HITS Ocala, HITS Saugerties, HITS Chicago, HITS Culpepper and the associated Championship, FEI and League events. “I will miss my West Coast clients, as many of them became friends. This partner group has put a great deal of time into this, and I feel the facility and associated events will be in good hands.”
For more information please go to deserthorsepark.com, arizonawintershows.com and for HITS please see hitsshows.com.