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New Faces at the Atlanta Spring Classic

Dr. James Hassinger shows in the pre-green hunter division. Flashpoint Photography.

Spring is in the air and so is the Atlanta Spring Classic, set to take place at the Georgia International Horse Park on March 19 through 30 for two weeks of AA show jumping excitement!

The Classic Company is pleased to announce two additions to its official roster.  Dr. James Hassinger, Veterinarian of Hassinger Equine Sports Medicine, will be the Official Veterinarian of the Atlanta Spring Classic, and Tim Patrick, Certified Journeyman Farrier, will be the Official Farrier for the shows.

Dr. Hassinger is a graduate of North Carolina State University and Auburn University School of Veterinary Medicine. He has been actively practicing veterinary medicine for 31 years. In 2003, Dr. Hassinger narrowed his focus and opened Hassinger Equine Service in Aberdeen, North Carolina as a sports medicine and performance centered practice dedicated to equine lameness, performance management, rehabilitation and imaging. Dr. Hassinger is also an active rider both at Hassinger Farm and at shows along the East Coast, including the Classic Company shows.

Hassinger Equine Sports Medicine is one of the only clinics in the United States to have a cutting-edge, mobile veterinary hospital. The mobile clinic is a state of the art facility in which they are able to complete all the same services as in their home location in a surgically sound environment, such as intra-articular joint injections. The clinic provides a climate controlled, horse-friendly environment while traveling to horse shows around the nation and private facilities.

“Many of our clients show at the Classic Company and we’re very much looking forward to being on-site so we can provide the vet care they may require,” commented Dr. Hassinger.

“While our focus is sports medicine, we also handle all colics, lacerations and any other problems your horses may have,” said Dr. Hassinger.

According to Dr. Hassinger, his wife Amy is the “boss” of the operation and is equally available during the events as are a number of staff.  “We’ll have Dylan Thomas, Dr. Alison Roth and our office manager Krystal Gray with us too. And most important, our groom Reuben who has been with us for thirteen years,” said Dr. Hassinger.  “In 2013 we were on the road for 32 weeks at horse shows and we’re looking forward to adding the Atlanta Classic shows to our list of events,” he added.

“We like the people at the Classic Company-they are all so nice.  They are serious about their work, but also like to have fun.  It’s the perfect combination,” he commented.

Emily Hertz, Assistant Trainer who works with David Pelligrini at Spring Mill Farm in Memphis, Tennessee, said, “I think Dr. Hassinger did a great job for us.  He is very thorough, provides excellent care, tied up all the loose ends and made it really easy for us.  His team is very professional and they have a great way with the horses,” she said.  “We’re definitely excited to have him in Atlanta,” she added.

Besides traveling to shows and caring for horses, in the Hassinger’s spare time they like to sail and spend time with their two grandchildren.  They travel to the shows with their full staff, three dogs (two Jacks and a Heeler) as well as their three horses.  Amy competes in the Adult Amateurs and Dr. Hassinger shows in the pre-green hunters.  This video they made of their life on the horse show road acts as a nice introduction to the Hassinger team!

Tim Patrick, CJF [Certified Journeyman Farrier] will also be joining the Classic Company as its new Official Farrier for the Atlanta Classic shows.  “Troy Van Heusen has been with us for years and is a very well-loved and well-respected farrier,” commented Bob Bell, President of Classic Company. “However, he told us he needed some time off and we respect his request,” he said.  “We are thrilled that Tim readjusted his schedule so he could join us in Atlanta,” commented Bell.  “Tim came to us three years ago as our Official Farrier for Pensacola from a recommendation from Patty Foster.  Tim Patrick is a committed farrier who often travels to the Classic Company shows in order to take care of several of his clients, including Patty Foster and Marylisa Leffler’s Rolling Acres Farm from Brookville, Maryland,” he added.

Tim Patrick brings over 30 years of experience to the Classic Company.  He has shod pony champions to grand prix champions and provides all shoeing services directed to the specific needs of the horse. “I am excited to be there in Atlanta because Classic Company does great shows and I work hard to be exhibitor friendly too,” he said.  “I am there for the horses and riders and I’m looking forward to it!” he added.

The Georgia International Horse Park is a favorite destination among horsemen and women.  “We love the rings, the permanent stalls with mats and the class offerings,” said David Jennings of Full Circle Farm in Nashville, Tennessee.

Anyone who has shown with the Classic Company knows what sets them apart from the rest:  Classic Shows are FUN!  After the Gulf Coast Winter Classic Circuit, the fun will move to the Georgia International Horse Park for the Atlanta Spring Classic Shows. Weekly grand prix, complimentary ringside Saturday pizza, and VIP seating – all with the exhibitor in mind! And remember, Classic Company does not charge extra office fees for credit card transactions nor is there a scratch or add fee!  Classic Company wants to make your showing experience the best ever!

So whether you are a seasoned veteran or novice looking for a positive show experience, head to the Georgia International Horse Park and the Atlanta Spring Classics, where you can ride in Olympic style and get the red carpet treatment you deserve!

The Gulf Coast Classic Company and the Classic Company is a USHJA’s Members Choice Award winner, recognized for producing top quality show jumping events in the United States.  Together, they offer the best exhibitor-friendly, top quality hunter jumper events each winter.  Please visit them on the web at www.ClassicCompany.com or call them at 843.768.5503.

All sponsorship, marketing and press inquiries should be directed to Lisa Engel, Sponsorship, Marketing and Public Relations Director, at lisa@classiccompany.com.

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See you at the ring,
Bob Bell
The Classic Company, Ltd.
www.ClassicCompany.com
Phone/FAX:  (843) 768-5503
Post Office Box 1311  Johns Island  SC 29457

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