The management of the Capital Challenge Horse Show has once again introduced an innovative class to their competitive show. Held this year September 27 through October 5 at the Show Place Arena in Upper Marlboro, MD, the prestigious event will feature an exciting new $5,000 hunter class for emerging professionals.
The $5,000 Emerging Pro Challenge will give riders competing in the professional divisions (future hunter, green working, green conformation, regular working, and regular conformation) the opportunity to showcase their ability. Seasoned professional riders who have won six classes in a professional division at a major national level “AA” horse show are ineligible and will have to remain on the rail to cheer for the “rising” professionals who will step into the limelight.
Manager Oliver Kennedy said, “There are a lot of riders who have great talent and start many of the top horses, but sell them before they get a chance to showcase their work at the major horse shows.” Kennedy went on to say, “It is hard for the top young professionals, or those who do not have the large string of horses or owners, to compete at the major national horse shows. This class is designed for these riders to be able to showcase their riding ability, and thanks to the King Family who has signed on to sponsor this new and innovative competition, who knows, maybe we will find the next great hunter rider.”
Throughout its 15-year history, the Capital Challenge has supported hunter riders with generous prize money and rider and trainer-friendly scheduling. They continue to generate excitement around hunter classes unparalleled in the world of equestrian competition. The World Champion Hunter Rider Professional Challenge held each year on Friday night not only draws hundreds of people to the stands, but has also enticed thousands of viewers to watch the class at home on streaming video provided by www.equestriansport.tv.
For more information about the show or for the full specs on the $5,000 Emerging Pro Challenge please visit www.capitalchallenge.org or call (301) 260-2467 prior to the show or (301) 952-7944 during the show.