Kevin Babington and Mark Q sail to victory during the 2016 Sapphire Grand Prix of Devon. Photo by: The Book, LLC.
Devon, PA – April 19, 2017 – The Devon Horse Show and Country Fair attracts a star-studded crowd of international show jumpers each season to compete in the $400,000 Devon Open Jumper Section, showcasing the most talented show jumping combinations in the world. These FEI classes all count for placement on the prestigious Longines World Ranking List.
The $50,000 Devon Welcome Stake will kick off the evening FEI competition on Tuesday, May 30th in the historic Dixon Oval at 7:00 PM. On Wednesday, May 31st, jumpers will return for a chance to claim the $40,000 Devon International Speed Stake.
In 2016, Olympian and reigning World Cup champion McLain Ward dominated the competition aboard Tina La Boheme, sweeping top honors in the Welcome Stake, International Speed Stake and Idle Dice Open Jumper Stake.
The highlight of FEI competition will come together Thursday, June 1st at 8:00 PM during the $225,000 Sapphire Grand Prix of Devon where the world’s best athletes will compete over a demanding track designed by Mr. Kelvin Bywater of Gloucestershire, England for the winning title. In addition, the rider that exemplifies the best style of riding will be presented with the Richard E. McDevitt Style Award.
Ireland’s Kevin Babington upset Ward’s winning streak last year, winning the Sapphire Grand Prix of Devon with Mark Q. Babington is very fond of the Devon Horse Show, noting, “Devon is very special to me because I live 30 minutes from here. It’s a fantastic venue and the footing is fantastic. Where else can you have such a crowd behind you than Devon? I tell all the other riders around: if you haven’t been to Devon, it’s a show you have to come to!”
For the Grand Prix only reserved seating tickets must be purchased for all sections in all grandstands. For more information about seating for the Grand Prix, email tickets@devonhorseshow.org or call (610) 688-2554.
The Devon Horse Show and Country Fair is the longest running and largest outdoor multi-breed competition in the United States. With the grandeur of Philadelphia’s prestigious Main Line setting the stage, the event features a world-class field that annually ranks among the most prominent internationally. The event also includes the Country Fair that offers world-class shopping, rides and games for kids, multiple dining options and special entertainment events.
For more information, please visit www.DevonHorseShow.net.
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