The 2008 Masters Division, sponsored by The World, has higher stakes at The Jumper Classic's new location in Hampton Falls, NH. Last year Elisabeth Clarke LaMotte of West Grove, PA, and her horse, Sky High, captured the blue ribbon in the $2,000 Master's Classic presented by The World. Reining champion and original founder of the Jumper Classic, Donald Little of Ipswich, MA, relinquished first place to LaMotte, though both shared the hometown advantage. LaMotte is originally from Hamilton, the show's location for many years.

"It was great fun to come back to my hometown," said LaMotte. "The Jumper Classic is a first class horse show, they take care of the exhibitors and make us feel so welcome."

This year a new venue and increased purse of $7,500 for the division will up the ante for the senior riders, who will compete at Level Four with jumps up to 3'9". The Masters Division is open to riders 35 and up who are of amateur status.

"When the Master's Division began in 1996 it was just a group of locals" mused Jeff Papows, Chairman of the Jumper Classic. "Now the Division attracts riders from all over the country who enjoy competing in this select age group." From ages 35 to, in some cases, their 70s, the riders have proven to be fierce competitors and return each year to do battle for the blue.

The World has been the sponsor of the Master's Division for the past four years, offering over $5,000 in prize money throughout the week of the Jumper Classic. The World's signature jump features a graphic representation of two luxury ships.

"We enjoy being a part of this event and enjoy our role as sponsor of the Master's Division at The Jumper Classic," said Louise Batista, Sales Director for The World, which offers private residential community at sea, aboard a ship that circumnavigates the globe. "The equestrians we have met and worked with have discriminating taste. They not only want the best for their horses but they deserve the best for themselves. They can relax with The World in our luxury apartments onboard, choose where they would like to go, and leave the details to us," added Batista.

Since founded 19 years ago, the show has become the premier AGA sanctioned horseshow in New England, under President Melissa Lovasco. Together with her team, which includes Papows and the board of directors, Lovasco has a transitioned the event from a horse show of local flair to one of the most elite venues on the show jumping circuit.

The 2008 Fidelity Investments Jumper Classic will be held Wednesday, September 3-7, 2008, at their new location, Silver Oak Equestrian Center in Hampton Falls, NH. The Jumper Classic will continue the tradition of a European-style horse show, attracting past Olympic medalists and athletes who will have just competed at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Also featured are the many internationally recognized riders who will be vying for the $75,000 Fidelity Investments AGA Grand Prix. For more information please visit www.jumperclassic.com or call (978) 283.7708.

For more information about The World, the only luxury residences at sea, please visit www.aboardtheworld.com.

Anne Wargo

ENDS