The Queen City Classic returns April 9-13, 2008, for the spring show season with a new location and USEF AA-rated classes, including a $25,000 Hunter Challenge.

This year’s event will be held in Monroe, NC, at the “Why Not an American Ark” Equestrian Facility, located outside of the Charlotte area. “We are delighted to have the Queen City Classic coming to the Ark. To bring such an event to this part of Charlotte is great for the area,” commented Jeff Wylie of the facility. The show grounds include two all-weather footing outdoor rings measuring 250 x 150 each, one sand-clay mix footing covered arena also measuring 250 x 150, a grass jumper field at 350 x 250, and schooling areas that are 200 x 100. Additional information and directions to the Ark can be found at www.whynotanamericanark.com.

Aside from the big $25,000 Hunter Challenge, the event will feature $1,000 Classics in each of the hunter and pony divisions. Equestrian enthusiasts across the board will find this event fills a void in the industry with its commitment to producing a quality-fun event reminiscent of show days from yesteryear. Robert Hunt, Queen City Classic Chairman, noted, “Showcasing the hunters is very important, their classic style and athleticism is often times taken for granted or just overlooked all together. We were very successful at illustrating their talents as well as drawing attention with the amount of prize money offered in 2005 and 2006.”

Show manager Stephen Carroll added, “We look forward to building on that success for a bigger and better show here.” While the main focus does center on the hunters, the Queen City event will offer jumper divisions as well. For the 2008 return, a distinguished and respected panel of judges was chosen, for the hunters Scott Finton and Scot Evans will have the honors and Jimmy Wofford will oversee the jumper divisions.

Available stabling is limited and expected to sell out so early stall reservations are highly recommended. Reservation-entry forms and additional information can be found at www.queencityclassic.com. Stall reservations can also be placed over the phone with Marie Irby at (704) 578-7131 or via email at [email protected]. Prize lists have been mailed out. If you haven't received one it can be downloaded from the web site or email a request for one to [email protected].

Sponsorship opportunities and VIP tailgating ringside adjacent to the Hospitality areas are still available. To learn more, please contact Stephen Carroll via email at [email protected].