An outbreak of equine herpes virus is significantly altering plans for this year’s National Finals Rodeo (NFR) in Las Vegas. The situation has financial implications for local businesses, with substantial losses reported.
Equine Herpes Virus Impact on NFR
The equine herpes virus has been spreading since late November, primarily affecting horses in Texas, with recent cases identified in Arizona. To combat this outbreak, NFR officials initiated preventive measures on November 19 to ensure the safety of the event. Allen Rheinheimer, the NFR general production manager, emphasized the need for swift action to protect participants and attendees.
Financial Consequences for Local Businesses
Local ranch owners are facing considerable financial setbacks due to the outbreak. Alan Shugarman, who operates Las Vegas Horse Ranch, typically rents out 120 stalls during the NFR. This year, half of those stalls remain unoccupied, leading to an estimated loss of $100,000.
- Empty Stalls: Half of the stalls rented out during NFR are vacant.
- Financial Loss: Shugarman estimates losses totaling up to $100,000.
- Impact on Revenue: Businesses rely on NFR for annual income.
Safety Protocols for Participants
In response to the virus outbreak, stringent safety protocols have been put in place. All participating horses will quarantine at the Thomas and Mack Center. They will undergo temperature checks twice daily, ensuring they possess a valid health certificate.
Due to the circumstances, NFR officials decided to forgo the traditional grand entry, which would have included an extra 90 horses, to minimize potential health risks. Despite concerns about the event becoming a super spreader, Rheinheimer expressed confidence in the implemented protocols, highlighting that safety is a top priority.
Event Cancellations
The equine herpes outbreak has led to the cancellation of several NFR-related events:
- Southpoint Hotel canceled breakaway roping.
- PRCA permit challenge was also canceled.
- Benny Binion bucking horse sale was called off.
- The All-In barrel race at the Orleans was canceled as well.
Horses leaving Las Vegas must undergo medical checks and will be required to isolate. Many states with reported cases of the virus are enforcing strict quarantine measures to contain the spread.
The National Finals Rodeo has been hosted annually in Las Vegas since 1985, except for 2020, when it was moved to Arlington, Texas, due to pandemic restrictions. Last year, the city signed a contract to keep the event in Las Vegas until 2035.
