Long Island Horse Show Series for Riders with Disabilities at Hampton Classic

The Hampton Classic Horse Show is once again hosting the Long Island Horse Show Series for Riders with Disabilities (LIHSSRD) Championships.

The Hampton Classic Horse Show features more than 100 classes of competition for horses and riders of all ages. In addition to competitions for riders with disabilities, the Hampton Classic features Grand Prix and open jumper classes featuring Olympic medalists and other Grand Prix veterans, a wide range of jumper, hunter, equitation, short stirrup and leadline classes. The highlight is the $250,000 FTI Consulting Grand Prix and FEI World Cup™ Qualifier on Sunday, September 1, which serves as a qualifying competition for the 2014 Longines FEI World Cup Final in Lyon, France next April.

The LIHSSRD Championships, celebrating the 8^th anniversary being held at the Hampton Classic, are held on Monday, August 26, and include three divisions–one for riders requiring the assistance of a leader, one for riders requiring a spotter at the beginner independent level, and one for more advanced independent riders.

LIHSSRD classes are held at rated competitions throughout Long Island and are open to all riders with a documented disability. Riders compete for points at each show helping them to qualify for the Series Finals at the Hampton Classic.

“We are proud to highlight these Championships as part of the Hampton Classic schedule,” said Shanette Cohen, Executive Director of the Hampton Classic Horse Show.  “The Championships are the culmination of the LIHSSRD’s eight show series and what better place to host the grand finale than here at the Classic which features the leading horses and riders from across the nation.”

The series, founded by Katie McGowan of HorseAbility, Inc., was created to provide riders with disabilities the same competitive experience that other equestrians enjoy. Riders are judged on equitation, and demonstration and knowledge of riding skills. Therapeutic riding students are able to experience physical, emotional, and mental rewards through HorseAbility’s motto, “Riding is for Everyone.”

HorseAbility’s mission is to offer a wide range of horse-related programs to children, adults, and families with special needs to promote the physical, psychological, emotional, social, and spiritual well being of its participants. Consultation with participants, their families, and staff takes place on a regular basis to ensure that the appropriate services and programs are being utilized to optimize the impact of their programs. HorseAbility is proud to be the only North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA) Premier Accredited Center on Long Island. This prestigious title is awarded to centers that demonstrate excellence in providing quality, professional equine assisted activities.

There is no admission charge to come to the Hampton Classic and watch the LIHSSRD Finals on Monday, August 26.

For more information about the Long Island Horse Show Series for Riders with Disabilities, visit www.horseability.org.