The 2028 Los Angeles Olympic equestrian events of dressage, eventing, and jumping will be held at Santa Anita Park, located in Arcadia near Pasadena. The decision to choose Santa Anita over the previously proposed venue in Temecula was made due to its central location, proximity to hotels, and existing facilities such as a veterinary clinic. The change came as a shock to the organizers in Temecula, who had been preparing Galway Downs as the proposed Olympic venue.
Santa Anita Park, a privately owned race track with a rich history in horse and Hollywood lore, covers 320 acres and has the capacity to accommodate large crowds. The venue has hosted major Thoroughbred events in the United States, including the Breeders Cup, and is known for attracting famous movie stars in its heyday. The decision to switch the equestrian events to Santa Anita was influenced by the success of the Paris Olympics’ equestrian competitions at the Palace of Versailles.
The 2028 Olympics will require 200 horses for competitions, with Santa Anita having more than enough stalls to accommodate them. The venue’s infield area will be used to provide the cross-country course for eventing. Despite the disappointment of the organizers in Temecula, Santa Anita’s selection as the venue for the equestrian events of the Los Angeles Olympics is expected to provide a quality facility for the competitions.
