Lexington, KY - The Hampton Classic, running for its 34th year August 23-30 2009, became the second US horse show designated by the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) as a USEF Heritage Competition.

The designation of a USEF Heritage Competition is reserved for those competitions that have been in existence for a quarter century or more, promoted and grown equestrian sport, and made a contribution to the community outside the gates of the horse show by achieving, maintaining and promoting the equestrian ideals of sportsmanship and competition.

The Hampton Classic has been a fixture on the Long Island community calendar for more than three decades and is renowned for both the highest level of competition (featuring the $250,000 FTI Grand Prix and FEI World Cup Qualifier) and a huge commitment to the local community (Local Day kicked off the festivities on (Sunday, August 23). The Hampton Classic also hosts the Finals of the Long Island Horse Show Series for Riders with Disabilities.

Partnered with the Southampton Hospital, the Hampton Classic has generated more than a million dollars since its inception for the hospital. A staple in the community, the Hampton Classic continues to support local charities and equestrian programs.

“The Hampton Classic is an international show deeply rooted in the local community in Long Island,” said USEF CEO John Long. “It has been a staple on the US Horse Show calendar since its inception and represents everything the USEF looks for when designating a Heritage competition.”

“The Hampton Classic is extremely proud to be designated as a USEF Heritage Competition. We recognize that this honor is bestowed on a very select group of competitions. Many people have contributed to making the Hampton Classic the great event that it is today and it is with great pride that we accept this tribute on behalf of all of them,” said Hampton Classic Horse Show Executive Director Shanette Barth Cohen.

ENDS

The specific requirements of a Heritage Competition can be found in the USEF Rule Book, GR301.6 or at http://www.usef.org/documents/ruleBook/2009/GeneralRules/Chapter%203.pdf.

Any competition interested in applying for a Heritage Competition designation must complete the form that is available on the USEF website: http://www.usef.org/documents/competitions/2009/HeritageApplication.pdf.