David D. Ortega, Mayor of the City of Scottsdale | https://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/council/mayor-david-ortega
David D. Ortega, Mayor of the City of Scottsdale | https://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/council/mayor-david-ortega
Brian Dygert, the general manager of WestWorld of Scottsdale, is set to be inducted into the League of Agricultural and Equine Centers Hall of Fame on January 18 in Austin, Texas. This recognition comes as Dygert approaches his 15th anniversary with the city later this year.
Dygert's journey in equine management began on a farm in Western New York. With a family background deeply rooted in equestrian care—his father being an equine veterinarian and his grandfather a standardbred horse trainer—Dygert was immersed in the world of horses from an early age.
Under Dygert's leadership, WestWorld has developed into a premier events facility, attracting nearly a million visitors annually. The venue hosts approximately 40 equestrian events each year along with numerous conventions, trade shows, concerts, and large-scale gatherings like the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show and Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction.
City Manager Jim Thompson expressed high regard for Dygert’s contributions: “There is no one in the city more deserving of this honor than Brian Dygert,” he said. Thompson praised Dygert for advancing Scottsdale's reputation as a destination for people worldwide and highlighted his impact on both the city and the national equestrian community.
Dygert's career includes notable achievements such as participating in an exhibition at the 1996 Olympics and chairing the team that introduced Reining at the 2002 World Equestrian Games in Spain. Prior to joining Scottsdale, he gained recognition at Bob Martin Eastern Agricultural Center in North Carolina. He also co-founded the League of Agricultural and Equine Centers and served on its Board of Directors for 14 years.
Reflecting on his upcoming induction into the LAEC Hall of Fame during their Annual Symposium, Dygert stated: “I am very humbled and extremely proud to be recognized in this way.” He credited his parents for instilling values that guided him throughout his career: “I have always approached everything I’ve done as leaving it better than I found it.”
The ceremony will take place before industry peers during LAEC’s symposium on January 18.
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