First-place winner McLain Ward. Photo: Curtis Wallis.
The Classic hosted a total of 28 riders from around the world including six Olympic competitors and three of the four members of the U.S. Pan American Games team.
Eleven of the riders competing today went clear in the first round on a course designed by renowned course designer Richard Jeffery. These horse and rider combinations went into the jump off, with three posting clear rounds. Just one hundredth of a second separated the top two, with McLain Ward narrowly defeating Christine McCrea in the seven-fence jump off. Ward captured his second New Albany Classic with a time of 32.73.
The only local rider, Ali Wolff of New Albany, finished 8th overall in the competition.
Now in its 14th year, The Classic drew a sell-out crowd for the first time in its history and again raised more than $1 million to support the work of the Columbus Coalition Against Family Violence (CCAFV). The Classic has raised more than $17 million since inception. Developed and hosted by Abigail Wexner of New Albany, The New Albany Classic is the primary fundraiser for the CCAFV.
Musical sensations Big Time Rush, Greyson Chance and New Hollow performed at the Tween Brands Concert presented by Justice. Along with a myriad of other activities, guests were treated to a Grand Prix show jumping competition featuring some of the world’s leading equestrians.
“It is always such a joy to host the families who attend The Classic each year. Their support means the work of The Columbus Coalition Against Family Violence can continue,” said Abigail Wexner.
Wexner continued, “The riders and horses that compete here are the very best in the sport so it’s quite a thrilling competition. The enthusiasm for the Grand Prix grows each year and I’m really gratified with the turnout.”
In addition to the carnival rides, petting zoos, pig races, crafts and games the day also included a Tween Brands Concert at The Classic presented by Justice. Thousands of people danced and sang along to live performances by Nickelodeon stars Big Time Rush, YouTube sensation Greyson Chance and New Albany’s own New Hollow. These performers added to the roster of previous Classic performers that included David Archuleta, The Jonas Brothers, Demi Lovato and Jordin Sparks.
Founded in 1998 by Abigail Wexner, the Columbus Coalition Against Family Violence is composed of leaders from businesses and community organizations in Central Ohio committed to reforming our systems and improving our response to family violence. The Coalition is organized around five task forces or victim “touchpoints,” where a victim will seek help – Business Community, Faith Community, Health Care, Legal System and Victim Services. For more information, please visit www.ccafv.org.