The Lake Placid and I Love New York Horse Shows return to the charming village of Lake Placid, NY, June 23-28, and June 30-July 5, and feature every level of competition from children under six competing in the lead line division to Olympic veterans competing in the grand prix—the pinnacle of equestrian show jumping competition. The two-week long horse show series is one of the most highly regarded stops on the nation's hunter/jumper circuit.

The Lake Placid Horse Shows include two grand prix events—the $75,000 RV Sales of Broward Grand Prix of Lake Placid CSI** on Sunday, June 28, and the $75,000 Hermès Grand Prix CSI** on Saturday, July 4. Following the Hermès Grand Prix, the Richard and Diana Feldman Perpetual Challenge Trophy for Excellence is awarded to the rider who has won the most combined prize money in Lake Placid's two grand prix.

"The Lake Placid Horse Shows offer something for everybody," said Richard M. Feldman, Chairman of the Lake Placid Horse Show Association. "Whether you are an avid equestrian or a first time horse show visitor, we guarantee you'll find something about our horse shows that you will love and it will keep you coming back to visit year after year!"

One of the reasons that the Lake Placid Horse Shows are so popular with exhibitors is that in addition to a first-class horse show facility, management and prize money, there are just so many fun things to do in Lake Placid. As one of the world's premiere resort destinations, Lake Placid offers an ideal setting for family vacations.

The natural wonders of the Adirondacks offer great hiking, swimming and boating, and the charming resort town has unrivaled hotels and restaurants. But the horse shows also offer many other fun things to do, most of which have become traditions in their own right.

One such tradition is Animal Planet Kids' Day, which takes place this year on Friday, July 3. This is an educational and fun event with activities such as a stable tour, jumper course walk, farrier visit, and question-and-answer seminar on safety in and out of the ring. There is also a raffle, giveaways, lunch and an autograph session with top grand prix riders.

Another popular tradition that returns to the horse shows this year is the 17th annual Doggie Costume Contest sponsored by A Placid Life, The Brown Dog Deli & Wine Bar and Lonesome Landing on Saturday, July 4. at noon. Contestants strut their stuff in a special ring set up near the horse show's Richard M. Feldman Grand Prix Field. Awards, including the Lulu Perpetual Trophy for the funniest costume, are presented to the "top dogs." All people with leashed dogs in costume are admitted to the horse show at no charge on this day.

Also returning is the 22nd annual Equestrian Window Decorating Contest, beginning on Tuesday, June 23. Each summer, Lake Placid village businesses show off their equine inspired storefront window displays that exhibit artistic and creative talent for the contest occurring concurrently with the horse shows. The equestrian theme window displays are immensely popular with horse show participants, spectators, and shoppers as local businesses welcome members of the horse show community to town.

The schedule for the 2009 Lake Placid and I Love New York Horse Shows is full of exciting equestrian action and great family activities. Don't miss your chance to visit the North Elba Showgrounds and be part of these action-packed events.

For more information, please call the Lake Placid Horse Show Association at (518) 523-9625 or visit www.lakeplacidhorseshow.com.