The excitement of the Stanislaus County Fair begins Monday with pre-fair horse events.

 “The pre-Fair horse events are a much anticipated part of the Fair season,” said Adrenna Alkhas, spokesperson for the Stanislaus County Fair. “It is a great opportunity for horse exhibitors to show their stuff.”

The Stanislaus County Fair’s horse events begin Monday and continue through June 26 in the fair’s FoodMaxx Arena. These pre-fair events are free.

The arena horse shows and judging events include:

·         4-H & FFA English – Monday, 7:30 a.m.

·         Open English followed by Quadrille – Monday, 6:30 p.m.

·         4-H & FFA Showmanship followed by 4-H & FFA Western – Tuesday, 7:30 a.m.

·         Open Western Show – Tuesday, 6:30 p.m.

·         4-H & FFA Gymkhana – Wednesday, 7:30 a.m.

·         Open Gymkhana – Wednesday, 6:30 p.m.

·         Jr. Rodeo (hosted by Turlock Horsemen’s Club) – June 25, 8 a.m.

·         Cutting Horse Competition followed by Branding – June 26, 7:30 a.m.

·         Open Cattle Classes – June 26, 6:30 p.m.

In the face of the recent outbreak of the EHV-1/EHM, the fair has been one event fortunate enough to be able to continue with regularly scheduled horse shows.

“According to our sources, the equine herpes-1 infection is no longer present in Stanislaus County,” said Chris Borovansky, Stanislaus County Fair CEO.

The 2011 Stanislaus County Fair opens for its 100th anniversary celebration July 15 for a 10-day run. Visit the fair’s website for complete ticket sale details at www.stancofair.com.