In early August it looks like a farm with a few outbuildings, although this year there is considerable work going on to improve the quality of the footing in the rings. By opening day, August 29th, an equestrian city will have been erected. It is of course the Hampton Classic Horse Show—and there is nothing in the world quite like it. What looks like a simple farm on Snake Hollow Road in Bridgehampton actually consists of carefully nurtured grounds with show rings that are looked after year-round, and a utility infrastructure designed to accommodate the annual gathering of horses, participants and spectators.
More than 1,600 horses will be exhibited in two jumper rings and four hunter rings (and they will practice in six schooling rings). More than $600,000 in prize money will be offered, with a $250,000 Grand Prix prize. Some 50,000 people will attend, and on the final day 3,000 guests will be seated in the VIP patrons’ tents.
It is not only the biggest hunter/jumper competition in the country—it is breathtakingly beautiful. Whether you look at the texture of the incredibly green grass, the magnificent horses, the dazzling white and pastel striped tents, the gleaming jumps or the riders in their equestrian attire, there is beauty around you. And if you happen to be in the Patrons’ Tents on Grand Prix Sunday, there is power, fame and money around you as well. No wonder prestige sponsors line up to take part in the Classic.
The riding is the best there is, with Olympic, World Cup and World Champion riders participating. And not only is it big, beautiful and the best, it is ours—it started here and it grew to world-class status here.
For information: www.hamptonclassic.com