The 36th Annual Hampton Classic Starts Today! Our Cheat Sheet

Returning today to the Hamptons for the 36th year is The Hampton Classic Horse Show, one of the most anticipated and prestigious events of the season. This high profile event has become an absolute must not only for the crazy, horse obsessed equestrians like myself, but also for celebrities and socialites. Still drawing in some of the world’s top riders and horses in the heart of Bridgehampton, the Hampton Classic has become on of the biggest social events on everyone’s calendar over Labor Day weekend.

[Photos by BILLY FARRELL for PMc]

Over the years the classic has grown to become one of the largest and most important equestrian events in the US, as well a major income source for the Hampton’s economy, contributing approximately $13 million each year. With over 70 shops, boutiques, restaurants and events happening during the Classic, here is a little cheat sheet to everything going on in case you get overwhelmed and your ADD kicks in, we don’t want you to miss out!

Attendees from the 2009 Hampton Classic... [Photos via Rob Rich]

For souvenirs, I recommend not waiting until the last minute to stop by there, as they always run out of sizes in the T-shirts, check out some of the best shopping available.

Best Shopping

Indo-Chic: We still have some hot days to look forward to, some silk tunics may just be the way to go… oh and did I mention the amazing colors they have?

Nature Girl Designs: These guys have most unique custom belt buckles! Who knows how long the cut off shorts trend is going to last, it’s time to spice it up before it’s too late.

Sam Edelman: Keep up with all the trends for the upcoming season before anyone else in their in this exclusive little pop up shoe shop. Rumor has it, they will have all the new styles that haven’t hit stores yet.

Skid Row LLC by Skiffington and Widrow: They carry all the best colors of Soludos and other summery womenswear.

Vicomte Arthur: This store is stylish and preppy, yet also carries hip polo shirts. All the hot Argentine polo players get their team shirts made by them, but they carry some similar styles for women as well.

Hermès: This store has high end apparel for the accomplished riders, and for those who wish they were.

The Styleliner: Missing out on this luxury treasure chest is so not an option if you want to add a little more culture to your look. The Styleliner has the most amazing accessories sourced from all over the world just waiting for you to come and discover them.

Turner & Company: Women’s designer clothing, all the basics plus a few exclusive finds - this store attracts all the top equestrians (and the most trendy ones). It's a great place to always find an amazing selection of all the best new jeans

[Photo by Cailin Riley via 27East.com]

Playground Of Events

Wednesday:

Opening Day

Thursday:

$10,000 Sam Edelman Equitation Championship - Sam and Libby Edelman will host luncheon during to celebrate the event in the VIP tent with members of their creative team along with other invited guests.

“Champagne for Horses” party and Equine Welfare Experts Discussion at the Grand Prix Ringside Chalet, hosted by Seraphim 12 Foundation, NYCLASS and Louis Roedere Champagne.

Private BBQ hosted the Chair of the Classic at private Bridgehampton Home.

Friday:

$10,000 Sotheby’s International Realty Welcome Stake 


(Junior/Amateur Division)

$15,000 Autism Speaks Speed Derby

$50,000 Spy Coast Farm Grand Prix Qualifier

“Horseless Horse Show” to benefit JustWorld International

Exhibitor Party, hosted by The Hampton Classic on the grounds during the JustWorld International Horseless Horse Show.

Saturday:

Cablevision’s Kids Day

$30,000 Nicolock Open Jumper Challenge Grand Prix

$50,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby

Grand Prix “Super Sunday”:

$30,000 7 & 8-year-old Young Jumper Championship

$25,000 Carolex Show Jumping Derby

$10,000 Hermès Hunter Classic

$250,000 FTI Grand Prix and FEI World Cup™ Qualifier

“Jump for ASPCA” fundraiser, sponsored by FTI, during Grand Prix Jump-Off, each time a rider clears the ASPCA fence on the show ground, a donation will be made to the foundation, each contribution will starting from $1,000 up to $5,000.

[Photo via Rob Rich]