The 51st Hampton Classic Horse Show celebrated Animal Adoption Day, presented by U.S. international Grand Prix rider Georgina Bloomberg and her Gotham Enterprizes, on Monday, August 24.
Marking its 16th anniversary, the beloved event welcomed spectators to the Aspinall Ring for an inspiring afternoon devoted to animal welfare, adoption, and responsible care. Attendees had the opportunity to learn about the rewards of adopting both small and large animals, hear from dedicated advocates, and watch a heartwarming demonstration featuring adoptable horses of all breeds and sizes. The program highlighted the powerful connections between people and animals while encouraging attendees to consider giving a deserving animal a forever home.
Celebrating 51 years of world-class equestrian competition in Bridgehampton, the Hampton Classic features FEI CSI5* and CSI2* show jumping and USEF Premier hunter competitions with more than $1 million in prize money, and was held August 23 to 30.
“This is the most important day. The Hampton Classic has been so meaningful to me growing up,” said Bloomberg. “I know how lucky I am to have horses to compete here, and it’s our way of giving back and educating on how one can help. I’m so grateful to Valerie (Angeli) for all the year-round work she does and to Shanette (Cohen, the executive director of the Hampton Classic) and the Hampton Classic for letting us take over a ring and giving us the opportunity to help. This is the most meaningful day, and everything that happens after this is a bonus.”
Joining Bloomberg in welcoming spectators to the Aspinall Hunter Ring were Valerie Angeli of RedHorseStar Productions LLC and award-winning animal advocate and bestselling author Jill Rappaport.
“It’s not just a day to adopt. It’s a day to become aware of the issues with animal welfare,” said Angeli. “Our point today is you can adopt, or you can get involved in other ways. Awareness is critical to get the necessary help for horses, dogs, and cats. Georgina sponsors this event every year because she knows how important rescue is as an animal lover and how important it is to raise awareness, funds, and interest in volunteering. Everyone can do something to help.”
Joining Rising Starr Horse Rescue and Superhero Rescue Horses at the Hampton Classic Animal Adoption Day was a diverse group of equine rescue, welfare, retirement, and therapeutic organizations dedicated to improving the lives of horses and the people they serve. Visitors could meet representatives, learn about adoption opportunities, and discover the many ways horses positively impact communities. The participating groups included StandFast Equine, The Serenity Project, Changing Tides Equine Retirement & Agriculture Learning Center, Global Strays, and Warrior Ranch Foundation.