riders had their first look at the competition arena on Wednesday in preparation for Thursday's opening round of Budweiser World Cup 2003, April 16-20 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada.

This international event features forty-one riders from around the world, competing for the prestigious title of World Cup Champion at what will be the 25th annual FEI World Cup Final. The riders took turns in the ring Wednesday, not competing, but familiarizing their horses with the arena.

Earlier in the day Markus Fuchs of Switzerland and Nicole Simpson of the United States picked the numbers and names in the draw to determine the order of go, marking the start of the year's most important equestrian event in the entertainment capital of the world.

In the afternoon, spectators had the opportunity to cheer for their neighbors as the best local amateur riders of the state competed in the Nevada Team Invitational in appropriately, the "Gambler's Choice" class. The winner was the Red Team, which consisted of Team Captain Amy Sears, Celebrity Captain and World Cup competitor, Richard Spooner, Darlene Hayes, Amanda Meyers, Whitney Stewart, Brittany Smith and Rita Koentopp.

Show jumping action continues through Sunday, with event highlights that include heart-stopping speed classes, the Grand Prix of Las Vegas, and of course, the illustrious World Cup Final. The audience will also be treated to spectacular laser light shows and dazzling performances by Las Vegas showgirls and a dressage demonstration by 1999 Pan American Games double Gold Medalist Debbie McDonald. For tickets and other information, please visit the website www.worldcuplasvegas.com or call 702-260-8605.