#USA #Wellington International #Mark Bellissimo #Equestrian Center #Wellington

Wellington International Equestrian Center Welcomes New Ownership

In a significant development for the equestrian community, the former majority owners of the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center, Mark Bellissimo, Marsha Dammerman, Lisa Lourie, and Roger Smith, have finalized their acquisition of Wellington International. The new entity, WI FL Acquisition, LLC, aims to reinforce Wellington's position as a premier equestrian hub globally.

Murray S. Kessler has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer, taking over a leadership role at this iconic venue. Kessler expressed enthusiasm over the investment possibilities that lie ahead and emphasized the commitment to enhancing Wellington International’s operations.

Mark Bellissimo remarked, "We are grateful to have Wellington International back into a local and long-term ownership group, committed to ensuring the showgrounds thrive for years to come." This statement emphasizes the pivotal role of Wellington in hosting various equestrian disciplines, including show jumping, hunters, and dressage, critical to the fabric of the local community. Bellissimo asserted that the group's goal is to foster a vibrant environment in Wellington, positioning it as the world’s leading equestrian destination.

The Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF), recognized as the largest and longest-running equestrian competition globally, plays a central role in Wellington International's offerings. With 42 weeks of competition every year, WEF attracts over 350,000 spectators and accommodates approximately 15,000 horses across its picturesque 111-acre venue. The economic impact is substantial, reflected in a contribution of over $400 million to Palm Beach County's economy in 2024 alone.

Kessler mentioned, "I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work with President Michael Stone and his team. While our investment plan is a multi-year journey, we are already making meaningful enhancements for the coming season." This includes improvements to the infrastructure for athletes, spectators, and horses alike, ensuring a top-tier experience for all involved in this vibrant equestrian landscape.

Stone echoed the sentiment, stating, "With the sale process complete, we can now turn our focus back to the essential activities that define our existence here in Wellington – showcasing the shows, caring for the horses, and celebrating the riders during the equestrian season with renewed purpose and commitment."

Wellington International is not just known for its equestrian events; it also offers various amenities, including VIP areas, hospitality spaces, event venues, and high-end shopping options. This multifaceted approach helps attract participants from all over the world, solidifying Wellington's esteem among equestrian enthusiasts.

Established in 1974, Wellington International has evolved into a major figure in the equestrian world, blending competition, community, and commerce. This recent acquisition marks a promising new chapter that aims to elevate the overall experience at the venue while reinforcing the area's status as a key player in the equestrian sport. Bellissimo and his partners are dedicated to making Wellington the ultimate destination for equestrian events and continuing to contribute to the local economy and the broader equestrian community.

As the community anticipates these changes, all eyes will be on Wellington International to witness the evolution of this storied venue under new ownership – one that prides itself on maintaining ties to the local scene while reaching for global recognition on equestrian stages.