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Just Horsing Around

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It would be pretty tough to give a jousting demonstration along Colorado Boulevard with all the floats and marching bands and whatnot. But watching the equestrian groups make their way down the parade route in such an orderly fashion, decked out in full costume, does arouse one’s curiosity--just what can they do? That’s why the Tournament of Roses Equestrian Festival was created--to give the chosen horses and riders an opportunity to strut their stuff for audiences.

On Saturday at Santa Anita Park, Medieval Times knights, the Roy Rogers and Dale Evans Riders, the B Troop 4th U.S. Cavalry and the Andalusian Horses of Spain, along with assorted equestrian drill teams scheduled to march in the Rose Parade on New Year’s Day, will perform as part of the festival.

(The show will be followed by the regular Santa Anita racing schedule.)

The rose queen and her court will be on hand. Also, there will be a drawing for tickets to the Rose Bowl (Arizona State versus Ohio State).

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Today is opening day for thoroughbred racing at Santa Anita, and the Budweiser Clydesdales will march in their own parade to kick off the season. The hearty horses also will make an appearance at Saturday’s Equestrian Festival.

The festival is included in race track admission, $4; ages 17 and younger, free. Santa Anita Park, 285 W. Huntington Drive, Arcadia; (818) 574-7223.

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