TRYON, N.C. -- The World Equestrian Games start Tuesday in Tryon.
- The games are held every four years and features eight disciplines including jumping, vaulting and endurance
- Bromont, Canada pulled out of the games, and the Tryon International Equestrian Center had two years to prepare for the event
- Tickets are still available and start at $20
They're held every four years, and features eight disciplines including jumping, vaulting and endurance.
Typically host locations have four to six years to prepare but when Bromont, Canada pulled out of the games, the Tryon International Equestrian Center was left with two years to put on the event.
"We are the first private entity to produce these games," said Tryon International Equestrian Center Chief Operating Officer Sharon Decker. "We've had great support from the state for the infrastructure."
Organizers said there will be around 1,000 horses, another 1,000 athletes and hundreds of media attending. There are also 250,000 to 300,000 spectators expected.
The center built a temporary 17,000 seat stadium for the main events, and there's an expo area for spectators to purchase merchandise and a large emergency services area.
"We do know this will be the largest sporting event in the state over this two-week period in the state's history," Decker said.
While work is still underway, organizers believe it will be done in time.
Tickets are still available. They start at $20. For information click here. The center is also hosting a free community day on Monday.