Brighty, a 17-year-old Shire Horse, will lead the Parade of Athletes at the 34th annual State Games of Mississippi Opening Ceremonies in Meridian. Owned by Matthew Davis of Alder Shires, Brighty will also participate in the Torch Lighting segment and engage in media appearances, highlighting the significance of the Shire breed, which is currently listed as “at risk” by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust.
The State Games of Mississippi, a non-profit organization promoting amateur athletics since 1992, has grown from 1,200 athletes in its inaugural year to over 5,000 participants across more than 40 sports. The event aims to foster physical fitness and teamwork, offering an Olympic-like experience with opportunities for athletes to advance to national competitions.
This year’s ceremonies, produced by Mark Cheplowitz of Wizard of Ahs, promise to captivate spectators with Brighty’s presence, showcasing the historical importance of Shire Horses, which were once vital in medieval England for their strength and size. The Games are supported by various sponsors, ensuring affordable entry fees for participants.
