US Equestrian has designated the Charleston Summer Classic I & II a Heritage Competition in recognition of the show’s 26-year history and its substantial contribution to the development and promotion of equestrian sport. The hunter jumper competition on Johns Island, South Carolina, celebrated the designation at its most recent edition, which took place July 10-14 and July 17-21 at Mullet Hall Equestrian Center.

The show, which began in 1992, quickly generated stronger interest among local barns in USEF-rated shows. “The community recognized this as a positive and built the $5 million equestrian center after seeing the financial impact to the community, thus providing a great place for local equestrians to have other shows,” competition manager Bob Bell wrote in the Charleston Summer Classic I & II’s Heritage Competition application. Mullet Hall Equestrian Center in Johns Island County Park now hosts a number of shows and also serves as a community center for trail riding, festivals, and events.  

The Charleston Summer Classic also has long had links to area charities, most recently benefitting the Charleston Animal Society.

The United States Equestrian Federation’s board of directors approved Charleston Summer Classic’s application at its mid-year board meeting. To meet the US Equestrian Heritage Competition criteria, competitions must have operated for a minimum of 25 consecutive years, show significant involvement and support from the community, demonstrate a meaningful contribution to equestrian sport, and more. The requirements can be found in the US Equestrian Rule Book.

A complete list of US Equestrian Heritage Competitions can be found here.