The 2008 Beacon Hill Equestrian Grand Prix presented by Mackenzie Keck, Inc., has been expanded this year to include a day dedicated to junior equitation riders. This year’s show will begin on Thursday, June 19, and will run through Sunday, June 22, and will be held at Beacon Hill Show Stables in Colts Neck, NJ.
The addition of an equitation day is a natural evolution for the show, as equitation is the foundation of jumper riding. The Beacon Hill Equestrian Grand Prix showcases jumper talent and draws some of the nation’s best horses and riders. Many juniors who compete in equitation classes, judged on their riding style and precise horsemanship, are looking to make the step into the jumper division or have done so already.
“We felt that by adding a day to the show it gave the junior equitation riders an opportunity to compete at a great facility and be exposed to a unique European-style event surrounded by some of the best riders in the country,” said horse show manager Oliver Kennedy.
Thursday’s classes will begin at noon and will run throughout the day. The classes will be held in the sand ring, and riders will be judged by Ralph Alfano of Wellington, FL.
In addition to watching the show, children visiting on Saturday and Sunday will enjoy a petting zoo and carnival games with prizes. Parents can also stroll through the wide variety of boutiques that make up the vendor village. Tickets are $5 per person at the gate. Be sure to get there early on the weekend in order to get a good seat for the main events.
Proceeds from this year’s show benefit the Gleneayre Equestrian Program, a non–profit program for children and teens who are experiencing challenges in their lives. Gleneayre provides children with an opportunity for growth, self–discovery and responsibility through nurturing and caring for horses.
For more information about the Beacon Hill Equestrian Grand Prix or the Gleneayre Equestrian Program, please contact the Gleneayre Equestrian Program at (609) 267-4104 or visit www.gleneayreequestrianprogram.org.