More than 800 horses compete at Cleveland Metroparks’ Chagrin Valley Hunter Jumper Classic, now in its 42nd year. Many of the nation’s top four-legged athletes twist, turn, and leap high hurdles in various competitions over the next four days. It all culminates in Sunday’s Grand Prix, which offers a $50,000 prize. “We have amateurs to Olympic-caliber riders,” says co-chair Gail Tobin. “It’s for people of all ages and for horses and ponies of all sizes.”
Judges hand out awards for training, execution, and riding. You’ll even see five-foot jumps at Sunday’s bash. “This is a historic legacy we’ve carried,” says Tobin. “We’re the only show within the region offering this high level.”
In addition to all of the bit-and-bridle action, visitors can adopt a cat, pet pretty ponies, and check out dog-agility contests. Kids can even saddle up for a gallop around the grounds. More than anything, says Tobin, “We really want to educate people about the equestrian sport. There is no other horse show of this caliber.”
July 19-22, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
This article appears in Jul 18-24, 2007.