Devon Horse Show Remains a North American Riders Group (NARG) Top Rated Event

Devon, Pa. - The 120th annual Devon Horse Show and Country Fair, set to get underway May 26 through June 5, 2016 at the famed show grounds can now close the books on last year's show with another top ranking from the North American Riders Group (NARG).

The annual report by NARG noted "the splendor of Devon" and went on to say, "With its timeless charm, the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair once again is among the continent's best. Nestled in the heart of Philadelphia's Main Line, the horse show and fair attracts a loyal group of spectators who come to enjoy tea sandwiches, top-notch competition, fair rides, shopping and the famous Devon fudge. As one of only three events without FEI designation to make it into the NARG Top 25, this American tradition and multi-breed competition celebrates its 120th year in May of 2016."

The report continued, "Several evaluators note the feeling of importance that is unique to Devon. The announcers keep the audience informed and entertained, yet another reason why the show continues to have such a robust spectator presence. With multiple days and a variety of classes, the schedule runs on time, and the show office staff is particularly friendly, remembering rider names and making everyone feel welcome. The footing in the Dixon Oval is excellent, holding up to both wear and weather," NARG stated. "The large schooling area shares the same quality footing as the main ring. Music from loudspeakers in the ring and barns give the venue an appealing ambiance."

Devon Horse Show and Country Fair Chairman Wayne W. Grafton pointed out, the elements in the NARG report that held Devon back from an even higher rating this year are exactly the issues that are being addressed immediately and will be noticed when the gates open for this year's show.

NARG stated, "While keeping the charm the older permanent stables definitely need a facelift, the prize money could increase and, as mentioned, there is no FEI rating. There is no place for riders and owners to sit aside from the barn or in a grandstand."

"Those are the items that were at the top of our agenda as we poured more than $1 million worth of improvements into the show grounds," Grafton said. "We've dramatically increased our prize money, and the show is now a sanctioned FEI CSI 4* rated show."

The Devon Horse Show will be offering added prize money and three exciting FEI CSI4* rated classes, beginning with the $50,000 Devon Welcome Stake on Tuesday, May 31. The $40,000 Devon International Speed Stake on Wednesday, June 1. The most notable boost in the prize money is in Devon's most popular class, the $225,000 Sapphire Grand Prix on Thursday, June 2.  That is a $125,000 jump in prize money in that class alone.

The prize money increase and FEI ranking are only part of the $1 million improvements. Another exciting addition will be a new, two-story building located along the Dorset Road side of the Dixon Oval. The first floor will house the emergency medical services sponsored by Bryn Mawr Hospital as well as the show office, management, public relations and ticketing offices. The second floor of the new building will include VIP suites, exceptional catering and great views of both the Dixon Oval and the Gold Ring.

Competitors will notice immediately upon arrival that more than 220 of the permanent barn stalls have been reconstructed. This will help improve the safety of the horses.

Devon Horse Show and Country Fair President Richard O'Donnell explained, "We are very excited about the new improvements to our barns, which will provide a safer environment for competitors and their horses."

This year's 120th anniversary theme, 'Silver to Gold' will focus on the all-new Anniversary Square, near the famed Clydesdale's Corner. The all new brick patio will be paved with purchased bricks. Devon Horse Show and Country Fair Chair of the Development Committee Karin Maynard was recently quoted, saying, "Construction is soon to begin on Anniversary Square and bricks can still be purchased. We invite the community to join in and add a brick with their name, for it will perpetually be marked on the Devon Horse Show."

The NARG report concluded, "Though the Devon Horse Show's proximity to Spruce in the show calendar will always be a factor in attracting top show jumping talent, the recent commitment to great sport through the efforts mentioned above will certainly give competitors more reason to consider trading travel for tradition."

"The tradition of excellence and always improving continues at the Devon Horse Show," said Grafton. "We are focused on making this a wonderful venue for competitors and attendees for many years to come."

For more information on the Devon Horse Show, visit the website at: http://www.devonhorseshow.net/.

For the 2016 Prize List, check in at: http://www.devonhorseshow.net/exhibitors/exhibitors-info/.