The Del Mar Horsepark RFP resulted in a proposal from a well-regarded horse industry professional who included remediation, revenue, and an essential public service. Due to a technical error in filling out the form correctly, this proposal was deemed “nonresponsive,” without considering the proposal content.

Here's why the Del Mar Fairgrounds needs to reissue the RFP soon:

Significant Investment Already Made. Del Mar Horsepark is the only public horse-based facility in San Diego County. The horse facilities, especially the green field and covered arena, are extremely valuable as the 22nd has already invested $8million in water protection infrastructure.

Provides Consistent & Predictable Short-Term Revenue. Horsepark horse show revenues even survived Covid shut-downs, as shown in 2020 with $1.75million in revenue during a shortened horse show season. Short-term revenue generation continues to be a top priority for the 22nd DAA, as the strategic plan is still under construction.

Proposals Can Include Essential Public Service with Equine-Based Therapy. Most importantly, the Horsepark RFP response reportedly included a significant public service provided by a certified equine-based therapy center.

For the first time ever, Del Mar Horsepark would offer an essential public service that helps veterans and children with cognitive and physical challenges, as well as their families.

A model facility, the Shea Center for Therapeutic Riding in Orange County, has seeded equine-based therapy in San Diego and throughout the US. This center has the same infrastructure as Horsepark to protect water quality, including all wash racks connected to sewer, pumping stations, swales, and daily waste removal.

Equine-based therapy is proven to help kids, veterans, and the elderly develop fundamental skills through increased strength, balance, coordination, and learning to speak. Many clients speak their first word or take their first steps after participating in these types of programs.

Revenue, water remediation, plus public service—that’s a real win-win for the 22nd DAA, the many supporters for saving Del Mar Horsepark, and countless families whose lives can change through equine-based therapy.  

We look forward to the new RFP for Del Mar Horsepark promised soon by the 22nd DAA.