A champion Hunter at work at the L. M. Tate Show Grounds (Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show Foundation archives)

Blowing Rock, N.C. -- From July 27th to August 7th the historic mountain town of Blowing Rock will host the 93rd consecutive Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show.  Four hundred of the most accomplished show hunters and jumping horses in the country will return for two weeks of competition at the fabled L. M. Tate Show Grounds.  The American Saddlebreds kicked off the High Country’s annual right of summer this past June.  Now, for two weeks, the horse show world will turn its attention to the hunters and jumpers.  If you have never been to a horse show, this is the one to see. 

Show Chair, Burr Collier said, “I am particularly pleased with the exhibitor response this year.  We have many veteran barns returning and several new ones who are showing in Blowing Rock for the first time.  We will be at full capacity by the time the first competitor enters the ring on Wednesday.  He continued, “With so many more summer shows to choose from these days, it is comforting to see that owners, trainers, and riders still love showing at Blowing Rock.  It’s been true for 92 years and it looks like it will be true again for the 93rd, but, he added, we must never take our good fortune for granted.  Nothing is as easy as it once was."

Major improvements to the Show Grounds this year include the addition of especially designed hunter fences built to reflect the rustic charm and character of the North Carolina Mountains.  Also new arena entrances and gates have been added to create a more appealing presentation of the competitive areas for both exhibitors and fans. 

Grandstand tickets are $10 for the entire day with in-and-out privileges for everyone.  The Blowing Rock Equestrian Preserve is located at 1500 Laurel Lane off highway 221, one mile from Main Street.  Food concessions are available on the grounds, and a spectacular Vendor’s Row offers a variety of shopping opportunities to keep horse lovers and horse watchers busy between classes. 

For more information call 828-295-4700 or visit the web site at www.blowingrockhorses.com.  There you will find a detailed spectator’s guide http://blowingrockhorses.com/blowing-rock-charity-horse-show/spectator-guide/ and time schedules for both weeks. 


Media Inquiries to: 
Maurice Ewing, Director
Public Information
[email protected]