The Hampton Classic is one of the largest outdoor horse shows in the United States, a premier destination for horse people, and a much-anticipated stop on the summer tour for competitors. Now well into its fourth successful decade, The Hampton Classic Horse Show is in a class all its own, both in the minds of spectators and horse people alike.
Top equestrians from around the world compete for more than $800,000 in prize money. National champion hunter competitors, Olympic medalists, and scores of children and adult amateurs make up the field riding approximately 1,500 horses entered each year in 200+ separate competitions.
In addition to watching world class equestrian sport, spectators enjoy more than 80 onsite shops, a dozen International food options, daily activities in the kids’ area, and Monday’s annual Animal Adoption Day, featuring rescued dogs, cats, and horses in search of a forever home.
In 2009, the Hampton Classic became only the second horse show ever to receive the status of Heritage Competition by the United States Equestrian Federation. This prestigious status is reserved for competitions that have been in existence for at least 25 years and have provided for their communities as well as the horse community as a whole in an unprecedented fashion.
Opening Sunday, on the beautiful grass of the Grand Prix Ring, you will find probably the tensest competition all week, the legendary Hampton Classic Leadline. Dozens upon dozens of ponies parade their riders, judged by Olympic Gold medalist Joe Fargis, while their proud parents and grandparents watch nervously from the V.I.P. tents.
The week culminates with the $300,000 Hampton Classic Grand Prix, one of the most coveted titles in the sport.
The Hampton Classic Horse Show is always a grand way to end the summer. Held in high regard by the horse community, famous for its Hamptons Celebrity sightings, and second to none in high end shopping boutiques, it earns its nickname The Classic.
WHERE: Bridgehampton, NY (off Montauk Highway, Route 27 at 240 Snake Hollow Road), 65-acre showgrounds.
Located near some of the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast, amidst the fashionable Hamptons summer scene.