Maryland has long been a hub of horse activity and sport. According to the 2010 Equine Census, the Maryland horse community is made up of 28,340 people with 81,000 horses on 16,040 properties that comprise 587,000 acres. Industry assets are $5.6 billion, direct operating expenses are $363 million, and although the economic impact has never been accurately measured, it is in the billions. Also home to the Preakness Stakes, Capital Challenge Horse Show, and Maryland CCI5L*, Maryland is home to some of the most prolific shows in the country, and world. Because of the prevalence of this industry, the Maryland Sister States program is committed to cultivating growth in the equine industries in both its own state and its partners.
With the Hauts de France Sister State, cooperation in the discipline of eventing is the priority. A delegation of French officials is planned to be in attendance at the Maryland CCI5* in October 2021 in order to cultivate and maintain stronger ties within the sport.
The traditional Mexican rodeo sport of charrería will be making its way to Maryland thanks to the efforts of the Jalisco Sister State. Plans to host an event are in the works, and the Jalisco Committee is looking for interested participants.
The Anhui Sister State Committee has been one of the most active in this equine initiative program. Anhui has hosted a variety of exchanges with Maryland equine professionals, and has committed to purchasing breeding stock and agricultural products to facilitate further growth in the region. Anhui will also be sending a delegation of industry professionals to the Maryland CCI5* in October 2021 and preparing to send riders of their own in coming years.
