Many of the west's top horses and riders will converge on the Los Angeles Equestrian Center, September 22-26, 2004, for a week of top hunter/jumper competition. The $40,000 Grand Prix of Los Angeles will run on Saturday evening, September 25, and a capacity crowd is expected for this American Grandprix Association event and qualifier for the 2005 World Cup Finals. The World Cup Finals will be held in Las Vegas, NV, next spring.

Richard Spooner, who has an early lead in the World Cup standings, will compete, much to the delight of his fan base. Other top grand prix horses and riders are expected, including Olympian Mark Watring.

The Los Angeles International Jumping Festival features several important medal finals and top equitation riders from throughout the West will vie for championship honors. The BET/ USET West Coast Show Jumping Talent Search is a national level finals, and riders from throughout California, Oregon, Washington, Utah, Colorado and Arizona routinely compete. Riders undergo a rigorous three-phase competition, culminating with the top four riders all riding one another's horses over a shortened course. The United States Equestrian Team Finals will be held on Thursday, September 23, at 6 p.m. and on Friday, September 24 at 3 p.m. Admission is free.

The U.S. Equestrian Zones 8, 9 and 10 Hunter Seat Regionals will feature a championship for the top junior and the top amateur rider. Last year's champions will ride a "preview" course prior to the start of the competition.

For more information about the show, please contact Equestrian Sports, Inc. at [email protected]. Tickets for the grand prix can be purchased through Center Box Office at (818) 840-9066 or [email protected]. Spectators are welcome throughout the entire week of the horse show.