Tuesday August 30, 2005

2006 World Equestrian Games in Aachen More Expensive Than Planned

The 2006 World Equestrian Games in Aachen will cost 2,2 million euro more than planned. The rise in cost can be attributed to the highly expensive new grand stand which includes the offices of the ALRV Aachener Riding Club and press center. The total costs for organizing the Games in Aachen have risen to 38 million euro.

The 2,2 million euro estimation might even rise, as Aachen wants to improve the footing in the main jumping stadium as well. "We know that the footing needs to be improved," said Klaus Pavel, president of the ALRV, "and when the WEG starts it will be perfect. Several riders complained about it" The deterioration in the quality of footing is caused by the new grand stand which has changed the circulation of air and produced weaker spots in the footing.

The 2005 CHIO Aachen was a rehearsal for next year's World Equestrian Games and despite several malfunctions in the organization, the ALRV was in general extremely pleased with the modernization of the show grounds. "There are a few things we can improve, but that's normal," director Michael Mronze said. With the Dubai Racing Club becoming the seventh main sponsor out of eight for the 2006 World Equestrian Games, the ALRV will have new money at its disposal.

Source: DPA

Horsesdaily "On the Scene" at the 2005 CHIO Aachen