Abacoa & Alton Neighbors - February 2022

New Investments Into Long-term Success of Equestrian Sport in Wellington Elaine Wessel, Marketing Manager, Equestrian Sport Productions; Photos by Equestrian Sport Productions Have you heard the big news? The Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC) is now under new management! Founded in 2008, PBIEC has contributed to transforming Wellington, Florida, into the world’s premier destination for equestrian enthusiasts. The facility and its offerings have continued to grow since its inception, attracting attention from around the world, including the team from the Global Equestrian Group (GEG). Led by Andreas Helgstrand, GEG is an international equestrian powerhouse with a vision of becoming the best and most revolutionary team of its kind, and the group is one step closer to that end goal thanks to the addition of PBIEC to the family. In July 2021, Helgstrand, CEO of GEG, and Mark Bellissimo, CEO of Wellington Equestrian Partners (WEP), announced an unprecedented partnership focused on developing international equestrian sport. GEG acquired PBIEC and has already undertaken significant investments into equestrian lifestyle initiatives at the venue, which will have long-lasting benefits for participants, fans, and the community. The GEG initiative has launched major ongoing investments into all areas of the facility, ensuring that PBIEC will continue to be the preeminent sport horse venue in the world with increased exposure in Europe, Asia, and South America. “The Winter Equestrian Festival and PBIEC are fantastic brands within international equestrian sport. Together, we will strengthen the offering and create a global market leader spreading our passion for equestrian sport and lifestyle to new markets,” commented Helgstrand. As a four-time Olympic gold medalist in jumping and co- owner of Global Equestrian Group, Ludger Beerbaum has become a valuable asset for PBIEC. “Our goal is to enhance equestrian sport by providing superior venues and top sport so riders across the world can live out their passions and dreams. With the acquisition of PBIEC, we now have the perfect setting to do this in the U.S., and with our current expansion of Riesenbeck International in Germany, we will have two top professional and attractive showgrounds,” remarked Beerbaum. COMMUNITY CORNER 28 Abacoa &Alton N E I G H B O R S | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2