Desert Park re-opens to the public

Penticton Wesrern News: May 18
After five long years of lobbying, Desert Park in Osoyoos will be reopening immediately to the public as an equestrian facility. The South Interior Recreational Equestrian Centre Ltd. (SIREC) announced they have signed a lease agreement with the Town of Osoyoos. "The South Interior Recreational Equestrian Centre Ltd. has taken an exciting step towards bringing life back to Desert Park. I am very pleased that this group has stepped up to the plate and they have been diligent in setting goals and working with the Town of Osoyoos staff," said Gerald Davis, director of recreation and leisure services for the Town of Osoyoos. "The vision they have will fulfill the needs for all patrons that use Desert Park. I am sure in the near future we will see the benefits that this group has endeavoured to promote." Besides establishing a mandate to make Desert Parka year round horse training facility accommodating up to 200 horses on site, SIREC will provide and enhance recreational activities including soccer and baseball, attract special events and entertainment such as concerts, fairs, sports tournaments and equestrian competitions. SIREC says that the successful revitalization of Desert Park will be accomplished by accommodating as many uses as possible.

"SIREC will strive to become an economic engine for the Town of Osoyoos as a financially viable tourist draw as well as a recreational facility for local residents. SIREC is a perfect fit with the towns' two major industries; tourism and retirement," said Allan Carswell, director of SIREC. The group has been restoring the facilities for the past two months which include a 5/8 of a mile race track, an extensive network of equestrian trails and jumps, several horse boarding barns, turnout areas and round pens. Desert Park fell into disuse in the late 90s after horse racing was discontinued and has been closed to equestrian activities for five years. Recreational facilities such as baseball diamonds and soccer fields have continued to be used by local residents. "We're making progress with the cleaning and repairing but after being closed for 10 years there's a lot of cobwebs on her," said Brian Starky, manger of operations for SIREC. "We'll get her all polished up in no time." Already the boarding stables have opened with the first 19 horses arriving from Alberta and the training facilities are being used on a daily basis.