Posted: 10.19.2011

Officials in Madison, Dane county, and the state should be paying attention to another international livestock show that's selected the Alliant Energy Center as it's headquarters.  Back again this year - the World Clydesdale Show!

Cathy Behn, secretary of the show, tells the WI Farm Report that Madison was very kind to the group when it hosted the 2007 World show - and that was part of the reason they decided to return.  Behn says the World Clydesdale Show only happens once every four years - so it really is like the breeds Olympics.  She expects at least 600 Clydesdales from across the United States and Canada - and plenty of international visitors too.

Behn says although their national sale averages have gone down slightly - the breed has still maintained good market value in the stressed economy. "For a long time there was no "world" show,"  Behn says, and she believes that's helped to rebuild the international interest in the breed.  Behn says during the 2007 show they had international representation from 7 different countries and she expects that number to escalate this year.  China, for example, has become a strong buyer for the Clydesdale breed.  "I would say (China) is a very bright spot.  They've got a breeding program underway - there's strong interest in Mongolia for the breed - and we're even seeing some exporting of their genetics which helps all of us."   

An adult Clydesdale horse can weigh as much as a Volkswagon Bug - and has a very large foot.  On average a Clydesdale horseshoe will be as large as a dinner plate.

The World Clydesdale Show begins officially on Thursday featuring a breed auction with 30-40 Clydesdale animals.  For full details on all events - go to www.clydesusa.com.

« back to news articles