Staff Writer
Former SMG Manager Bob Downey learned a strategy or two about putting on sporting events during his 15-year tenure with the company.
Now, he’s using those skills to assist in a world event in the heart of Horse Country.
Downey hit the road and traveled north to Lexington, Ky., last week where he’ll be active in the planning and production of the Alltech AIE World Equestrian Games, or as he likes to call them, “the equivalent of the Olympics for horses.”
“I’m looking forward to getting out there and figuring out what needs to be done,” said Downey.
Slated for Sept. 25 to Oct. 10, the World Equestrian Games feature numerous competitions of riders and horses from around the world. The Lexington event is the first time the equestrian games will be in the United States. The event has taken place in European countries every four years since it began in 1990.
Downey said from 2,000 to 3,000 riders and their staffs, in addition to the anticipated 600,000 fans, attend.
While he admits he isn’t necessarily equine savvy, he does have experience in the overall field.
“My background isn’t horses, but I’ve done so many big events,” said Downey. “We’ll be pulling together over the next several months to get the logistics in place.”
Downey resigned from SMG, the worldwide management company responsible for the day-to-day operations and maintenance of Jacksonville Municipal Stadium, the Baseball Grounds, the Arena, the Osborn Center, the Times-Union Center and the Equestrian Center, in early February amid disagreements about the job.
He decided to tackle the new business opportunity after being contacted by event organizers, many of whom he met while working to bring World Cup Soccer to Jacksonville.
“It’s a great opportunity,” he said. “The scenery is beautiful and just different than in Jacksonville.”
Downey said he won’t be gone, too long, though. He’ll be in Lexington for the next several months, only returning for a family event before going back to Kentucky.
Until then, he’s just enjoying the change.
“I’m always up for a challenge,” he said, “and I think this one will be fun.”
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