Equestrians From Around The World Competing In Temecula Valley This Weekend

Riders from six states, as well as Canada, Great Britain, Puerto Rico, Germany, Mexico, Australia, and France are competing for $13,000 in prize money at this weekend’s Galway Downs International Horse Trials just outside Temecula.

The competition at the Galways Downs equestrian facility, 38801 Los Corralitos Road, began Friday. Saturday the action continues as riders gallop their horses over more than 30 jumps on the cross-country course designed by former Olympic equestrian medalist Ian Stark of Great Britain.

The Galway Downs event will continue on Sunday, with more than 300 horses in five national divisions competing on either the show jumping or cross-country courses.

In addition to equestrian competition, local musicians are performing at the venue all weekend long. Tacky Little Hat Shop will kick off the musical performances with experimental folk/indie music Friday, from 5 to 7 p.m.

On Saturday from noon to 4 p.m., Kenny Marquez will play his wide-ranging rock collection. Low Volts, the one-man band of Tim Lowman, will also perform during this time. The musicians will be arranged around the equestrian courses, and there will also be local gourmet food and local wine and beer for fans to enjoy.  

On Saturday night, entertainment is headlined by Tony Suraci’s “The Highwayman Show.” Sunday, teenage singing sensation Jillian Calkins will perform following the conclusion of show jumping. Kids can also enjoy an Easter Egg Hunt at 2 p.m. Sunday.

General admission for the Galway Downs International Horse Trials is $12 per day in advance, $15 at the gate, with children under 12 free when accompanied by a paying adult.

For the complete competition and entertainment schedule, go to www.galwaydowns.com and click on the “Event Info/Schedule” tab at the top.