Hampton Classic Turns 40

The Hampton Classic is internationally known for its spectacular displays of accomplished riding, and its sponsor and spectator donations. From high-profile celebrities to beginning riders, the Hampton Classic offers a full immersive equestrian competitive experience, with a wide spectrum of activities focusing on animal welfare and the betterment of the local community. The Hampton Classic is not only a major US stop for professional equestrians, but it is also a community-oriented horse show, donating time and funds to many local charities.

As a Non-Profit
One of the more interesting facts about the Hampton Classic is that it is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, allowing the show to donate most of its proceeds every year. It ranks alongside other community-driven horse shows such as the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair, and the Hampton Classic strives to donate its time and funds back into the community that supports the competition. Shanette Cohen, executive director of the Hampton Classic since 2005, has been consistently striving to make the show better every year. Shanette said, “As a non-profit, we try to run the Hampton Classic as efficiently as possible, in order to create a high-end show that not only attracts amazing equestrians, but also families as well.” As executive director, Shanette oversees all aspects of the horse show, and coordinates with several internal groups to create the highly anticipated event every summer. Different sponsors, whether corporate or non-profit, donate funds, time, and participate in the Hampton Classic. In return, they extend their reach into the East End community.

Southampton Hospital
The Hampton Classic is known for its large donation to the Southampton Hospital, totaling over 1.75 million dollars since the late 20th century. The Southampton Hospital serves the East End, with auxiliary departments featured on both forks. Known as a “community hospital,” the dedication of its employees facilitates a necessary connection between intimate healthcare and professionalism. During the Hampton Classic, employees from the Hospital are admitted to the show free of charge, and have a booth in order to interact and educate the general public. The Southampton Hospital is also given two VIP tables in the main tent, in order to connect with many different sponsors that the show cultivates.

ASPCA
Founded in 1866 by Henry Bergh, specifically as an equine welfare company, the ASPCA has been a longtime sponsor of the Hampton Classic. One of the most well known humane societies in the world, the ASPCA involvement has only increased with every year. Hosting an annual “Adoption Day” every Monday of the Hampton Classic, the ASPCA invites spectators to meet dogs, cats, and equine rescue animals in a hands-on organized event. Shanette mentioned, “The conversation for adoption day started 6 years ago, when we were thinking of ways to get the ASPCA involved on a day when we don’t charge admission to the show. It’s a great start to the week.” The ASPCA also hosts different competitive classes throughout the Hampton Classic, such as the FTI Consulting “Jump for the ASPCA” class, where donations are made for every ASPCA jump cleared.

JustWorld International
Working through the equestrian community, JustWorld International helps children living in poverty around the globe by making donations to local partner organizations. Focusing specifically on Honduras, Cambodia, Guatemala, and Colombia, JustWorld aids the education and general welfare of the poorest communities in those countries. Founder Jessica Newman wanted to connect her equestrian background with her commitment to improving the lives of impoverished children. This led her to the development of the non-profit which now has more than 500 professional, amateur, and junior riders, “Jumping for JustWorld.” At the Hampton Classic, JustWorld staffs the information booth, which connects informed volunteers with both equestrian exhibitors and spectators of the show. Programs Manager Amber Warren said, “Volunteers inside the booth are doing everything from handing out rider bags to pointing visitors to the rings to watch their favorite competitors as well as to the great vendors located around the show grounds.” JustWorld also hosts a horseless horse show and a silent auction in conjunction with the Exhibitors Party, hosted this year on Wednesday. Amber said, “JustWorld International is really fortunate to be a part of the Hampton Classic, which provides us with the opportunity to raise awareness among riders, and provide support to the community as well.”

Other Community Involvement
The Hampton Classic also supports other local charities, such as the Sag Harbor Food Pantry, the Long Island Horse Show Series for Riders with Disabilities, and the Wildlife Rescue of Hampton Bays. Shanette said, “We are approached by many different charities throughout the year, and we try to take as many as we can, but our main criteria involves animal welfare education or a local connection to the East End.” The Sag Harbor Food Pantry holds a can collection at the Hampton Classic, allowing spectators the opportunity to enter the show grounds for free on Tuesday or Wednesday if they bring three or more cans as a donation. The Hampton Classic, since 2006, has hosted the LIHSSRD Finals, a pivotal event for all riders involved, which will be on Monday, August 24th this year. The Wildlife Rescue of Hampton Bays conducts a children’s educational seminar on the show grounds throughout the week of the show.

Shanette said, “We want to find charities that enhance the experience of the show, rather than just have booths on the sidelines.” Through partnerships with large charities such as the ASPCA, or local food pantries, the Hampton Classic is able to connect its audience to a variety of organizations that serve the East End community. Delivering an economic impact upwards of $90 million dollars a year, its no wonder that the Hampton Classic has become a prestigious event for the East End. By including horseless horse shows, educational seminars, benefit jump classes, and a huge amount of charitable involvement, the Hampton Classic exceeds expectations as a non-profit competition and is truly worthy of local support.

For more information on the Hampton Classic Horse Show, please visit the Hampton Classic website at www.hamptonclassic.com.