Coldwell Banker ITLDO of Minden sponsored horse jumping show

Real estate firm Coldwell Banker ITILDO of Minden sponsored Horse Show in the Sun's Grand Prix jumper competition Sunday because the competition is providing new exposure to the Carson Valley, the firm's owner said.

The third of five Grand Prix, it carried a $50,000 purse.

Coldwell Banker ITILDO founder Marsha Tomerlin met with HITS representatives through an office associate more than a year ago, and said she was impressed from the beginning. HITS produces hunter jumper events throughout the country, and this is the event's first year in Douglas County.

"I met with them, and there was no hesitation. I wanted to be involved. They're a great group of professionals, and everyone is so positive and upbeat. Everything's a possibility." Tomerlin said, adding that she felt the advantages to having the competition in this area were overwhelming, and she wanted to help any way she could.

She considers this a real business opportunity. In addition to sponsoring Sunday's Grand Prix her organization has built a jump and supplied the privately bottled water carrying the Coldwell Banker ITILDO name.

But her enthusiasm for the event stems from her feelings about the Carson Valley, and her commitment to the community.

"The best part about the Carson Valley is the people, and the geography," Tomerlin said. It is "a way of letting a whole new group of people know that Nevada has many green, serene pastures."

She is also very positive about the future of the event here.

"This will be the smallest show," she said. "Horse people will be coming from everywhere. I see it as a very good business opportunity, a great event, and everybody's excited about the revenue."

Together with her husband Tomerlin has owned a ranch in the Carson Valley since 1968, and has been active in the community: She is the founder of the Highway 395 Beautification Club, and her company constructed a park on 395 on the north side of Minden.

Coldwell Banker ITILDO has been a part of the Carson Valley since 1978.