Yesterday, Congressman Patrick McHenry (R, NC-10) visited the Tryon International Equestrian Center to highlight his support for their effort to host the 2018 World Equestrian Games (WEG). The WEG, is the premier, non-Olympic equestrian event and is hosted every four years between Summer Olympics. The event is administered by the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI). 

"I've had the pleasure of visiting the Tryon Equestrian Center throughout its construction and the progress made is truly impressive," said Congressman McHenry. "Coupled with our area's natural beauty and welcoming residents, I cannot think of a better place for the FEI to stage the 2018 World Equestrian Games. I've been proud to make Tryon's case and I will continue my efforts to bring this international event to western North Carolina."

During yesterday's visit, Congressman McHenry met with Tryon Equestrian Partners managing partner Mark Bellissimo and COO Sharon Decker. The Congressman received an overview of progress and later toured the facility. 

The 2018 competition was originally scheduled to be held in Bromont, Quebec, Canada but they were forced to drop their bid and on July 22nd, the FEI announced they will be looking for a new location. Tryon Equestrian Partners, owners of the Tryon Equestrian Center have offered up their facility in Mill Spring as an alternative. 

Since the bid process reopened, Congressman McHenry has been actively engaged in the effort to bring the 2018 competition to Polk County. North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory and South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley have also been supportive of Tryon's efforts. Additionally, the United States Equestrian Federation has communicated their support of Tryon's bid to the FEI.