LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — An equine herpes virus outbreak is forcing major changes at this year’s National Finals Rodeo and costing local businesses thousands of dollars in lost revenue.
The virus has spread for weeks, with most cases reported in Texas and recently in Arizona on November 30th. NFR officials implemented restrictions in late November to prevent the outbreak from affecting the Las Vegas event.
“On the 19th of November, we knew we had to do something quick to prevent anything from happening in Vegas, where we can continue on and keep everyone safe,” said Allen Rheinheimer the general production manager for NFR.
Local ranches face significant losses
Alan Shugarman who owns Las Vegas Horse Ranch, rents out 120 stalls every NFR, said half are empty this year. His losses total up to $100,000.
“Every year we count on this season for helping us stay in business all year long this is where we generate our revenue,” Shugarman said. “This year has been completely different.”
Shugarman said as the virus spread, people began calling to request refunds instead of booking stalls.
“There’s really no bouncing back you know. There’s no recovering it,” he said.
Safety protocols implemented
All participating horses must remain locked down at the Thomas and Mack Center instead of staying at local ranches. Each horse receives temperature checks twice daily, and must have a clean bill of health.
NFR officials said all 118 participants are present for the event. Officials say they eliminated the grand entry, which would have included an additional 90 horses.
FOX5 asked Rheinheimer if he is worried the event will become a super spreader.
“I don’t think so because of the protocol we put in ahead of time. I believe everyone coming in is safe, leaving safe, but nothing is 100 percent for sure,” Rheinheimer said.
Event cancellations
Several NFR-related events have been cancelled due to the virus. The Southpoint Hotel cancelled its breakaway roping, PRCA permit challenge and Benny Binion bucking horse sale. The All-In barrel race at the Orleans was also cancelled.
Each horse leaving Las Vegas will require a medical check and must isolate. Several states with infected horses are under strict quarantine guidelines.
The National Finals Rodeo has been held in Las Vegas every year since 1985, except for 2020 when it was relocated to Arlington, Texas due to pandemic restrictions. Last year, the city signed a contract to keep the event in Las Vegas through 2035.
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