Olympic Equestrian Events Pulled from Temecula
The dream of hosting Olympic equestrian competitions in Temecula for the 2028 Games has been unexpectedly dashed. The LA28 Olympic organizing committee has announced that Santa Anita Park in Arcadia will now serve as the venue for all Olympic equestrian disciplines—dressage, eventing, and show jumping—replacing the previously approved Galway Downs in Temecula.
This decision marks a significant shift in the Olympic venue plan, especially after the Los Angeles City Council voted unanimously on March 28 to approve Galway Downs as the host site.
A Stunning Reversal
Ken Smith, owner of Galway Downs, expressed his surprise and disappointment over the decision, stating he felt “sucker-punched” and had no prior notice of the change. The reversal caught many in the equestrian community off guard, particularly those who had been preparing Galway Downs for the international spotlight.
In a statement published by Eventing Nation, Galway Downs acknowledged the change and reaffirmed its commitment to remain a premier destination for national and international equestrian competition.
Why Santa Anita?
According to Dressage-News, Santa Anita Park offers a historic and well-equipped venue, having hosted equestrian disciplines during the 1984 Olympics. The site features a 26,000-seat grandstand, established stabling facilities, and a veterinary clinic, making it a logistically easier and more cost-effective option than developing Galway Downs further.
Organizers cited cost savings, transportation logistics, and venue readiness as primary reasons for the shift. Santa Anita’s proximity to Los Angeles—just 14 miles from downtown—was another key factor.
Community Impact in Temecula
This is a significant loss for Temecula and the Wine Country region. Galway Downs had been seen not only as a potential economic boost for local tourism and business but also as a point of pride for the equestrian community.
“Temecula is out. Santa Anita is in,” summarized Horse Network, highlighting the abruptness of the change.
Still, Galway Downs intends to press forward. Their statement emphasized a continued focus on excellence in competition and facilities, and they remain a vital part of the region’s identity and economy.
A Reminder of How Quickly Plans Can Shift
For GlenOak Hills residents and the greater Temecula Valley, this decision is a reminder of how quickly opportunities can change—even those that seem fully approved and in motion.
Though Galway Downs won’t be hosting the 2028 Olympics, the venue—and the community behind it—remains resilient, focused on delivering world-class equestrian experiences for years to come.
Sources:
https://dressage-news.com/2025/04/11/los-angeles-olympic-equestrian-competitions-switched-to-santa-anita-park-site-of-1984-summer-games/
https://www.chronofhorse.com/article/sucker-punched-galway-downs-owner-blindsided-by-loss-of-olympic-bid/
https://horsenetwork.com/subject/2028-los-angeles-olympics/
https://eventingnation.com/galway-downs-responds-to-la28-equestrian-venue-selection/
https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/video/olympics-committee-announces-venue-plans-for-2028-games/
https://apnews.com/article/d5d3b900db505a9794115ae16ca917df