Palm Beach Masters Series Features Classic Champions Inc. Young Jumper Classes at Deeridge Derby and Palm Beach Open Shows
Wellington, Florida – February 16, 2018 – The 2018 Palm Beach Masters Series will feature Classic Champions young horse jumper classes at both the Deeridge Derby , February 28-March 4, and the new Palm Beach Open, March 22-25. Both shows will be held at Deeridge Farms, a spectacular world-class venue in Wellington, Florida.
Created in 2015 by Cynthia Hampton, Classic Champions Tour is specifically for 5, 6, and 7 year-old jumpers and is based on European principles which modernise the show experience for young horses in North America. Created by experienced, specifically-trained course designers, the courses are made to fit horses’ age with adapted heights, types of fences, lines, and turns, all over top-notch footing, which is a trademark of Deeridge Farms. The series gives young horses the opportunity to compete at different shows to develop their experience and it helps them become the future stars they can be.
“My goal is to offer adapted classes and also to educate riders, trainers, breeders, course designers, judges and officials,” said Hampton. “We need a viable structure capable of identifying, selecting and educating future high level horses. I believe that we can breed and develop future athletes capable of distinguishing our region both at home and on the international stage.”
“We think it’s extremely valuable for young jumpers to get the best education and show experience possible right from the start, which is why we are delighted to include the Classic Champions classes at our shows,” said Lou Jacobs, event co-founder along with siblings Charlie Jacobs and Katie Robinson. “It’s always exciting to watch as young horses start their careers and develop through the levels.”
The Classic Champions Tour will take place, February 28 – March 1 , as part of the second annual Deeridge Derby . The young horse classes are non-USEF rated, held in Deeridge Farms’ beautiful grass Grand Prix Ring , and offer $40,000 in prize money. Course designer for Classic Champions Tour will be Frédéric Cottier of France, an Olympic bronze medalist, FEI 4* course designer, and Course Designer at the 2014 FEI World Equestrian Games™ in Normandy, France. In addition of the general results, the judges of Classic Champions Tour will reward one horse per generation with the “Classic Champions Award of Distinction.” The goal being to highlight jumping style, quality of canter and rideability.
On Wednesday February 21, immediately following competition, Classic Champions Inc. will offer a “Meet & Greet” with Frédéric Cottier about this approach to educating young jumpers. Everyone is welcome.
Entries are now open online at www.horseshowsonline.com or can be downloaded here . Entries close Wednesday, February 21, 2018. For more information, please visit www.palmbeachmasters.com/event/deeridge-derby/ .