The 64th Annual Pennsylvania National Horse Show (PNHS), set to return October 8-17, to the Pennsylvania State Farm Show Arena in Harrisburg, is expanding the size of classes in four popular hunter divisions.

Always a favorite among the nation's best riders, the Pennsylvania National Horse Show is increasing the approximate number of entries that it will accept in the Pony Hunter and Junior Hunter divisions from 27 to 30. It will also increase the approximate number of entries it will accept in the First Year Green Hunter division from 35 to 40, and in the Second Year Green Hunter division from 30 to 35.

"We are thrilled to increase the number of qualifying horses and riders in these divisions," said PNHS President Liz Shorb. "Competing at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show is a major accomplishment in a rider's career, and it brings us great pleasure to allow more riders to have that experience."

In addition to the increase in qualified entries, the PNHS is also adding a new Amateur-Owner Hunter 3'3" division, which will invite 25 horses to compete. This division is newly recognized by the USEF, and due to its great popularity, the horse show is adding it to the schedule.

To be eligible for this division, horses must be ridden by an amateur-wner or an amateur member of the owner's family. In either case, classes are restricted to riders who are no longer eligible to compete as junior exhibitors. Leased horses are not eligible and multiple ownership of the horse is not permitted unless all owners are members of the same family.

The Pennsylvania National Horse Show will also be increasing prize money in some of its hunter divisions.

"Our hunter riders are sure to be excited about these changes to our hunter divisions," said Shorb. "The hunter divisions add a sense of grace and beauty to the PNHS, and we are proud to recognize that contribution."

The 2009 Pennsylvania National Horse Show will run October 8-17, featuring 10 full days of hunter and jumper competition with both amateurs and professionals vying for coveted championships. The Pennsylvania National hosts 10 national championships. The competition highlight is the $75,000 Grand Prix de Penn National on Saturday evening, October 17.

The show is entertaining and educational. Special event highlights include: Hunt Night Competition, Jack Russell Terrier Races, the North American Fox Hunting Horn Blowing Championship, and family days with free pony rides. There will be demonstrations as well as special educational events and barrel and carriage racing.

Approximately 70 vendors are expected, offering a wide variety of items: clothing, gifts, antiques, custom signs, furniture, fine and costume jewelry, toys, pet items, t-shirts and tack. All offer a unique variety of items sure to please horse lovers and non-horse people alike.

The Pennsylvania National Horse Show is proud of its tradition of supporting both equine and youth programs. The show benefits the Harrisburg Kiwanis Youth Foundation and the Pennsylvania National Horse Show Foundation, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation.

Further information is available at the horse show's website at www.panational.org or by calling the horse show office at (717) 770-0222.