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Horse show attracts riders from near, far
(by Sali McSherry - July 09, 2012)
Horse show attracts riders from near, far
By SALI McSHERRY
The Chagrin Valley Hunter Jumper Classic, which will be held July 6 through 21 at the Cleveland Metroparks Polo Field in Moreland Hills, features local and national competition, including two grand prix events.
It will showcase the historic, Olympic-caliber Cleveland Grand Prix and the second annual $25,000 Chagrin Valley Professional Horsemen's Association Grand Prix.
What began in the early 1960s as a local fundraising horse show developed into a major equestrian event for local competitors, as well as for professional riders from around the world.
Between July 6 and 8, talent from throughout Northeast Ohio and the surrounding areas will be showcased. Students from Fieldstone Farm Therapeutic Riding Center in Bainbridge will compete in the Riders With Disabilities Horse Show July 9.
The classic will include two AA-rated horse shows beginning July 11. The rating, given by the United States Equestrian Federation, signifies that the show is at the top level of competition and prize money.
In addition to the horse-show competition, the first week will feature canine-agility events and a family fun day.
The International Hunter Derby will be held July 14, and the Cleveland Grand Prix, North America's first show-jumping grand prix, which began at the Polo Field in 1965, will be held July 15.
The second AA-rated horse show, from July 17 to 21, will feature the second annual PHA Grand Prix on the final day.
The Cleveland Grand Prix, along with many other competitions and audience attractions, has drawn crowds of more than 30,000.
In 2011, out-of-state riders made up 63 percent of the competitors. The influx of visitors serves as a boon to the local economy. In the past, the show has generated approximately $3 million in revenue each year for area hotels, restaurants and shops. With two full weeks of horse showing, the competitors, support staff and spectators stay in the area even longer.
A wide variety of volunteer opportunities are available during the show, from providing information to guests at the welcome tent to assisting with the presentation of ribbons and awards to the competitors. With a few exceptions, volunteers must be at least 21 years old. They all will receive complimentary T-shirts, general admission tickets for family fun day and refreshments from the volunteer tent during their shifts.
For more information call 330-903-9915.
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