Muhammad Ali, Wynonna Judd and John Calipari helped the World Equestrian Games get underway amid great fanfare at the Kentucky Horse Park on Saturday night.
Chants of "Ali" broke out among the crowd when the former boxing great made his entrance, and he and his wife, Lonnie, were driven around the arena in a classic car. The most scenic moment of the ceremony came earlier in the evening when Judd sang "My Old
Kentucky Home" before an appreciative crowd as the sun set on the
outdoor arena.
Athletes from 58 countries will compete in the 16-day competition that is comprised of eight different disciplines.
Much like the Olympics, the opening ceremonies featured a parade
of nations and a nod to the host country marking the first time the
event is being held outside of Europe.