Show Jumping World Cup Finals Daily Report by Carol Dean-Porter

Entertainment at the World Cup Finals

This event is not only a horse show, but an entertainment extravaganza.

Every performance opened in a darkened house, with a laser light show.

Opening night, Susan Anton sang the National Anthem. Friday night, Christie Shinka from the Las Vegas Hilton showroom sang the Anthem.

Clint Holmes from Harrah's performed a wonderful song "One World", along with a saxaphone accompaniment, which he wrote especially for this event.

The "Legends of Concert" from the Imperial Palace hotel performed with an Elvis impersonator singing "Viva Las Vegas", showgirls with feather boas and head dresses, and the Rockettes. These girls can dance in high heels in the sand footing of the arena floor!

Vickie Adams and her horse Silverado performed their dancing routine. Vickie is a Native American who has performed all over the world.

Tomas Garcia Lasso, a Mexican charro from Mexico City performed impressive roping demonstrations with his beautiful palomino stallion. 

John Taylor, Pro Rodeo Cowboy Association "Clown of the Year" performed with his "Horse" Spook. The crowd loved him.

There was a trained buffalo which did flying lead changes and even climbed a ramp to the TOP of a horse trailer.

Debbie McDonald and Brentina performed their musical dressage routine to standing ovations.

Conrad Homfield and Steve Stevens designed beautiful, demanding but fair courses which were beautifully decorated by Ricard Jeffries. There was a Statue of Liberty centerpiece along with a sculpture of clubs, spades, hearts and diamonds.

The musical director, Tommy Gallegher of the GTE horse show fame, did a masterful job of keeping the pace of the show entertaining, even during down times such as course walks. Everyone appreciated his theme music selected for each rider.

Announcers Ken Krause and Boyd Polhamus were excellent. Boyd is a top ranked rodeo announcer and added flair and color to the show. 

Las Vegas Events is a non profit group which organizes shows and coordinates with casinos for sponsorships in order to draw crowds to the area. The certainly backed a winner with the 2000 world cup finals!