(Tammy Hardy Photography)

Gloucester, MA - New England's most prestigious international equestrian show jumping event, The Jumper Classic®, Presented by Audi of America, returns to its roots this summer.  This five-day show will be held once again on Boston's North Shore, at the 100acre estate known as Maplecroft Farm in Ipswich, Massachusetts from July 10-14, 2013.   Established in 1989 in South Hamilton, Massachusetts, the event was held on the North Shore in both South Hamilton and Ipswich until 2008, when it moved to Hampton Falls, New Hampshire.

Now it has jumped the state line to be back in the heart of the North Shore's equestrian epicenter.  "We are pleased to be returning to this historically active center of equestrian events in the New England area where the show has enjoyed the participation of many exhibitors and spectators over the years," said Melissa Lovasco, President of the event since 1999.  While the location is a familiar one, the mid-summer show dates are new, and Lovasco believes this will be a better fit for the east coast summer show jumping circuit schedule.

The Jumper Classic offers five full days of show jumping classes, culminating in the $75,000 Grand Prix where the top horses and riders compete on a grass field.  Known for its European flair and rider focus, The Jumper Classic has been a favorite among show jumping's high performance athletes and devoted fans since 1989. It was dubbed the "Social Sporting Event of the Year” by the Boston Globe.

The event will be held on a pristine polo field with grass footing.  The show will offer two rings where different levels of competition will be held, ranging from Children's classes to the Grand Prix.  Acclaimed Course Designer Olaf Petersen, from Munich, Germany, returns to the show this year to test the skill of riders competing in the Grand Prix field. Petersen, who has designed courses in Wellington, Tampa, Ocala, Lake Placid and for Pfizer Million in Saugerties, served as course designer for the 2012 Jumper Classic.

There is something for everyone at this world class sporting event.  Opening on Wednesday, July 10th, the show welcomes riders across the spectrum of this Olympic sport. Top international riders will be on hand for the traditional Meet & Greet on Thursday, July 11th where fans can ask questions and learn about their favorite athletes and their horses.

On Family Day, Saturday, July 13, active U.S. military members and children under 13 are admitted for free and can enjoy organized games, pony rides, and entertainment as show jumping heats up in the competition rings.  On Sunday, the exciting $75,000 Grand Prix, the top level of the sport, and the $15,000 Speed Stake are the main events, with fanfare and entertainment throughout the day.  Tickets range from General Admission, Weekend passes, to the VIP champagne luncheon with ringside seating, featuring the traditional Ladies' Hat Contest held each year at this gala luncheon.
The Jumper Classic will announce further information on sponsorships, boutique vendors, the traditional VIP luncheon, and events as details are confirmed.

For more information please visit www.jumperclassic.com. Please Email [email protected] or call 978.283.7708 with any questions regarding the event.