Horse Illustrated Magazine

The historic Hampton Classic Horse Show, a popular stop on the hunter/jumper circuit, begins on August 28 in Bridgehampton, N.Y.

On Monday, August 29, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) will host its second Adoption Day at the Classic, made possible in part by Seraphim 12 Foundation, and will focus on the issue of homeless and at-risk horses, dogs and cats. Four local animal shelters and five local horse rescue groups will have animals on site. Celebrity hosts for this event include ASPCA Equine Welfare Ambassadors and top international riders Georgina Bloomberg and Brianne Goutal, “Today” correspondent and best-selling author Jill Rappaport, and actress and ASPCA supporter Aida Turturro. Dr. Pamela Corey, director of equine veterinary services for the ASPCA, will be on hand to answer equine health and wellness questions, and Jacque Schultz, ASPCA equine grants officer, will address how the ASPCA Equine Fund helps rescues and sanctuaries across the country sustain their life-saving programs.

“While we are proud to celebrate the tradition of excellence in humane and responsible horsemanship during this world class horse show, we also are mindful of all the at-risk horses that are not so lucky,” said Valerie Angeli, senior director of equine and special projects for the ASPCA. “Having recently celebrated our 145th anniversary this spring, the ASPCA has had a deep-rooted commitment to promoting equine welfare and rescue efforts since the mid-19th century. Together with the equestrian community, this event gives us a wonderful opportunity to honor these noble and hardworking animals.”

Other highlights during the week-long event include the presentation of the ASPCA Maclay Award with ASPCA Humane Law Enforcement Assistant Director Joseph Pentangelo, which takes place on Friday, September 2. The prestigious ASPCA Maclay Championship was established in 1933 by former ASPCA board member and horseman Alfred B. Maclay to encourage junior riders to excel in the art of responsible and humane horsemanship. It is the most coveted award in the U.S. for junior riders under 18 years of age.

Visiting animal-loving celebrities and top riders, including Ms. Bloomberg and Ms. Goutal, will make appearances throughout the week at the “ASPCA Patio” located near VIP parking and across from the public grandstand of the Grand Prix Ring (please see schedule included below).

“It’s an honor to be a voice for animals and serve as an equine welfare ambassador for the ASPCA,” said Ms. Bloomberg. “The ASPCA is an inspiration for so many in the fight against animal cruelty, and through my volunteer work, I am learning so much and realize that now more than ever, these animals need our help.”

The Hampton Classic is one of the country’s largest and most prestigious horse shows and draws many of the world’s top horses and champion riders. For more information on the Hampton Classic, please visit www.aspca.org/horse or www.hamptonclassic.com.