By Mayor Lisa Borowsky
WestWorld of Scottsdale is more than just a venue — it’s the beating heart of our city’s vibrant equestrian community and a significant driver of our local economy.
As a lifelong Scottsdale resident, equestrian and horse show competitor, I’ve seen firsthand the profound impact the equestrian industry and, in particular, this facility has on our local lifestyle, our national reputation, tourism and, as a result, our economy.
For decades, WestWorld has been synonymous with excellence in the equestrian world, earning a reputation for hosting many world class events such as the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show, the Arizona Sun Circuit Quarter Horse Show and many more. Such events have become recognized nationally and internationally as “best in class” competitions.
In addition, these longstanding shows are deep-rooted Scottsdale traditions that draw thousands of visitors, exhibitors, and enthusiasts from across the globe, filling our hotels, restaurants, and shops, which creates the ripple effect benefiting countless businesses and residents. The economic impact is undeniable, but the cultural richness they bring to our city is legendary.
The Tony Nelssen Equestrian Center at WestWorld of Scottsdale — which I was proud to champion during my prior service on Scottsdale City Council — boasts a rich history, serving as a premier venue for world-class equestrian events for two decades.
Beyond the grandeur of the amazing horse shows, WestWorld provides a valuable stage for a diverse array of Western-themed rodeos and western-themed events. These disciplines, all deeply rooted in our state’s heritage, headline our city’s connection to the rugged beauty and competitive spirit of the American West.
In addition to all the other benefits provided, WestWorld offers local riders a top-tier setting and provides an opportunity to introduce our future generations to the beauty and thrill of horsemanship skills and competition, which is such a significant part of Scottsdale’s history.
We must be careful to protect and preserve elements of our community, such as WestWorld, that have made us the envy of the country and the world.
My administration is committed to ensuring WestWorld continues to thrive through the provision of top-tier service, support and setting for our event hosts and competitors. This means investing in state-of-the-art facilities, streamlined logistical assistance, and proactive collaboration with organizers.
We understand that the success of these events hinges on robust infrastructure and a welcoming environment. By working together, we can ensure WestWorld remains the premier destination for equestrian events, cementing Scottsdale’s legacy as a true equestrian capital for years to come.