A review of the prestigious equine events sponsored by Gallop Around Louisiana, LLC, over the last two years, however, has shown a very positive effect on the northshore economy.

Based on statistics from the American Horse Show Association, the 3,000 people who attended back-to-back horse shows at Serenity Farms and Amen Corner Farm near Folsom last April spent approximately $3 million in a three-week period.

“That is an estimate based on the $100-per-person-per-day figure recommended by the Louisiana Department of Culture and Tourism,” says Rae Pertuit of Folsom, who worked with GALA and the St. Tammany Tourist Commission on the economic impact study.

GALA’s year-round schedule of horse shows attracts nearly 60,000 competitors and spectators annually, with top name equestrians and horses coming from as far away as Colorado and New Jersey. Each competitor usually travels with family in tow, including children and spouses. For each horse, there is generally a trainer and a stable hand who travel independently of the family. Some families travel with RVs to use during the day as they wait for their turn in the show ring. At the end of the day, however, most hang their hats at a local motel or bed and breakfast.

There is a strong trickle-down effect. “The guy coming into town who buys a roast beef po-boy also helps the Leidenheimer Baking Co.,” Pertuit says, adding that, while the top riders and their families may dine at restaurants such as Dakota or Trey Yuen, the stable hands, trainers and other personnel who work behind the scenes might opt for more casual fare.

“These are the types of events that we hope will prosper here because they create such a positive economic climate,” says Hyatt Hood, executive director for the tourism commission. “Horse show competitors are generally significantly more wealthy than the average traveler - and have the propensity to spend more.” Demographic information from USA Equestrian indicates that the average income of an equestrian-competitive household is $135,000, compared to the average American income of $55,000. Equine competitors have discretionary money to spend as they travel from show to show across the country.

An added benefit is that, while the show series lasts for three weeks, the competitors and support personnel have time off to enjoy the northshore community and all it has to offer.

The Folsom-area events are growing in reputation, attracting the high caliber competitors GALA organizers hoped to see compete here. The combination of fine show grounds, significant prize money and local ambience is paying off very well.

“We hear that competitors have said they had the most fun in Louisiana,” Hood says, adding that they are spreading the word that the food is great, the facilities are top-notch and the people in the area are very nice.

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