DATE: 8/9/06

CONTACT: Charles Williams, (864) 646-2718; cwllms@clemson.edu

WRITER: Diane Palmer, (864) 656-4741; spalmer@clemson.edu

Garrison Arena has grown into first-class facility

CLEMSON -- Clemson University 's T. Ed Garrison Livestock Arena has grown into a first-class facility since opening its doors in April, 1991.

With more than 100,000 visitors that come to the arena annually, this contributes millions of dollars in economic impact to South Carolina and the surrounding area, according to Charles Williams, arena director.

Horse and cattle shows, rodeos and other livestock and agricultural events are the foundation of the arena business. However, the design of the complex allows the arena to host other events such as concerts, craft shows, and parties with entertainment and catering requirements.

The arena also boasts one of the region’s finest full service cattle complexes, according Williams. Designed with the aid of livestock producers, the complex allows the arena to serve event needs under one roof.

The show and sale component is home to numerous South Carolina breed association sales, both beef and dairy. With its adjoining cattle housing area, the show arena has been the site of state and Southeast region cattle shows with ample exhibitor restroom and shower facilities, concession area, milking parlor and office space.

“The show and sale arena at the cattle complex can accommodate parties of up to 500 people,” Williams said.

Full service RV sites will be expanded from 33 to 51 to be completed in time for the busy fall schedule. The sites can be rented for events such as football and basketball games or other athletic events, trail rides, livestock and agricultural events.

A 112-stall barn was completed in March of this year. An outdoor riding and schooling area was also added. Plus, four new 24-foot ceiling fans make the arena a comfortable venue for summertime events and will improve the comfort level during the winter.

Spencer Pest Control has installed their patented fly control system throughout the complex. V&V Equipment provides a John Deere tractor used for show ring maintenance and preparations and is recognized, along with Spencer Pest Control, as two of the arena’s corporate sponsors.

Lee and Kathy Pollard of Pendleton now operate the concessions and catering service. They offer a wide variety of food and drink options. A new sit-down eating area as well as a shaded picnic area outside provides options for guests to dine while visiting the arena. An additional restroom facility has also been added inside.

Williams said he looks to improve the existing handicapped parking plus add additional parking for those needing handicap parking.

“We can accommodate from 3,000 to 5,000 people, depending on the event,” said Williams.

The J.D. Massey Classic Horse Show was the arena's inaugural event. It's still one of the major attractions at the arena, according to Williams.

Upcoming shows in August are: S.C. Quarter Horse Association Maxie Circuit; Tech Large Animal Emergency Rescue Training; and Summer’s End Horse Show.

"These new additions have greatly enhanced our ability to attract a broader user base," Williams said. “The business community has been very supportive over the years.”

END