Bridgehampton, NY-August 29, 2010- Sunny skies and an enthusiastic crowd welcomed the Opening Day Celebration of the 35th annual Hampton Classic Horse Show, one of the most prestigious horse shows in the nation. The Classic features competitors at every level from young children in leadline to Olympic veterans and it culminates with the Classic's feature event, the $250,000 FTI Grand Prix and World Cup Qualifier on Sunday September 5.
International recording artist Cristina Fontanelli beautifully opened the ceremony with her rendition of the National Anthem and "God Bless America." Fontanelli is well known for her many appearances on television, radio, and in concerts and operas throughout the U.S. and the world.
Highlights of the ceremony also included a Parade of Adoptable Horses presented by the ASPCA and a Natural Horsemanship demonstration by trainer Sonny Garguilo of Elmont, NY. Garguilo, a popular instructor and clinician throughout New York and the east coast, showcased his gentle and non-aggressive training methods that concentrate on the harmony of horse and rider.
The prestigious Long Island Sportsmanship Award, sponsored by Quogue Pony Farm, was presented to local trainer and rider James Benedetto, who received this special honor, now in its fourth year, for excellence in sportsmanship.
Prior to the opening ceremony Olympic Gold Medalist Joe Fargis had tough decisions to make in the leadline event where 90 future equestrian stars, as young as two years old, competed in the horse show's Grand Prix ring prior to the opening ceremony.
In the Exhibition Kids Tent, animal lovers flocked to meet Cesar Millan, television's "Dog Whisperer," who was on hand to sign autographs and take photos along with giving advice in answer to questions.
Also on hand was ASPCA's Animal Behaviorist, Dr. Emily Weiss andASPCA Humane Law Enforcement and Director of Equine Medicine, Dr. Pamela Corey, who answered a myriad of questions during the "Ask the Horse Vet" session.
The $20,000 Nicolock Time Challengeheadlined the afternoon's competition with more than 50 talented show jumping horses who were ridden by some of the best riders on the Grand Prix circuit.
It was a spectacular way to start an exciting week of world-class competition at the Hampton Classic Horse Show.
For those who can't make it to the show grounds, WVVH-TV, the official Long Island television station of the Hampton Classic, is broadcasting up to five hours of competition and highlights each day during the Classic. These broadcasts can also be seen online at www.wvvh.tv.
Hampton Classic Horse Show, Inc. is a 501.c.3 charitable corporation. It benefits SouthamptonHospital and has contributed more than $1 million to the hospital since it began.
For more information on the Hampton Classic Horse Show, please visit the Hampton Classic website at www.hamptonclassic.com or call (631) 537-3177.