Residents discuss state horse park

A state horse park is a visionary concept that would bring multiple equine disciplines and other events under the umbrella of one venue.

The concept was discussed at an open forum last Wednesday that included state tourism officials, a consulting firm commissioned to do the study and interested citizens, many of whom have ties to the equine industry.

Joannah Hall Glass, owner of Sporting Days Farm and an organizer of horse shows, has been dreaming for years about the possibility of a state horse park.

"I couldn't help feeling that we really need a facility equal to the likes of the Virginia or Kentucky horse parks," said Glass, who said she would love to see the other organizers band together. "We as organizers are founders of the growth. I'm so supportive of USC Aiken for allowing us to use its beautiful Convocation Center for the forum."

If the horse park were to become a reality, it may take years for the project to actually come to fruition, but horsemen and equine event organizers see the benefits associated with a long-term conceptual plan. Many of the equine events are held on private property.

The state horse park would require both public and private funding, but many see it as an excellent opportunity for Aiken and could see it as a distinct possibility 15 to 20 years from now, said Jennifer Matheson, organizer and advanced level competitor.

"There's so much activity here already, it's a natural progression," said Matheson. "This isn't going to happen tomorrow. I'm excited about the idea and concept of the horse park."

Aiken County has established itself as the state's equine leader. It has the largest equine population, has a significant impact on the local economy and offers a wide variety of disciplines, well-run shows and numerous facilities.

"I've heard some chatter about that type of venue (speculative discussion about the possibility of a horse park), and there's some excitement about it," said J. David Jameson, president and CEO of the Greater Aiken Chamber of Commerce. "A venue like that would be able to host shows for different disciplines, and it would be a good gathering point for many of the equine folks in the community."

The location of the facility would be a variable that would have to be factored into the equation, if Aiken were to be recognized as the site for a state horse park, said Larry Byers, Equestrian Land Conservation Resource treasurer.

"The financial impact of the events on the community is substantial," said Byers. "The state horse park could be a natural adjunct if properly located near other events and other facilities. If the state horse park is centrally located, it could be a boon to Aiken County because of the financial impact by bringing in money that's not there. The venue would create jobs because the facility would have to be built, and there would have to be people in place to make sure it's run properly."

Some believe a state horse park may take away from the ambiance and the character of Aiken, said Jane Page Thompson, The Carolina Real Estate Company realtor.

"What I love about Aiken is that there are so many treasures," said Thompson. "Aiken is already a horse park. I understand the idea of putting everything together, but I don't think we have to have one in a place where we already have the facilities."