For 64 years, the Pennsylvania National Horse Show (PNHS) has been recognized as one of the premiere equestrian competitions in the United States. This year the PNHS, October 8-17, is increasing action in its popular jumper divisions by offering two $5,000 1.45 meter classes and the all new North American League (NAL) Low Junior/Amateur-Owner Final.

The Open Jumpers will have more chances to perform with the addition of these two new classes to the existing schedule for those qualified to jump fences as high as 1.45 meters. Both classes will offer $5,000 in prize money.

The North American League (NAL) Low Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumper Series Final is also being added and will be contested on the horse show's closing Saturday, October 17, and will offer $7,500 in total prize money.

The Low Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumper Classic division will be conducted and scored under Table II, Section 2(a)-Time First Jump-off rules. Fences are to be set at a minimum height of Level 4 and not greater than Level 6. The Low Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumper Classic Series is open to all junior and amateur riders. A rider need not be a member of the NAL to compete, but only current members accrue points toward year-end finals held at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show. All horses competing in the NAL finals earn U.S. Equestrian Federation Horse-of-the-Year points. The current NAL qualifying period started September 1, 2008 and ends August 31, 2009.

"These new classes will enhance what is already a standout schedule of jumper classes," said PNHS President Liz Shorb. "We know that exhibitors will be pleased with their addition to our schedule."

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 the 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 accepted offering a wide variety of items: clothing, gifts and antiques, custom signs and furniture, fine and costume jewelry, toys, pet items, t-shirts and tack shops. 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.