The Hampton Classic isn’t just a horse show. In fact, it's one of the largest outdoor competitions in the United States. And there’s more than a couple hundred dollars on the line—actually, there’s over one million dollars on the line.

Image of Irish Equestrian, Darragh Kenny

The horse show dates run from August 25th to September 1st, 2024. And with over 1,400 horses entered in the competition each year, equestrians worldwide participate. The truth is, the equine industry is intensely competitive and one fall can be career-ending. Yet, it's the risk behind the sport that makes it so worthwhile to watch.

While it's no doubt that this show is all about horses—the Hampton Classic, home to New York, is known for its fashion. It’s noted on their website that while “Country Casual” wear is suitable for the event, women and men often wear fancy hats, especially on Grand Prix Sunday.

An article by The New York Times suggests that the Hampton Classic might just be “Where to Show Off Your $5 Million Horse,” if that’s in your tax bracket, of course. The competition is truly prestigious and is only the second horse show ever to receive the status of Heritage Competition by the United States Equestrian Federation. Whether you’re an Olympic medalist, an amateur equestrian or even a celebrity—the Hampton Classic never fails to entertain.

There’s a lot to expect from the 2024 Hampton Classic horse show, so let’s unpack it.

This year, there are eight riders from the Paris Olympic Games and these entries include athletes from nineteen countries. Previous champions of the Hampton Classic Grand Prix are three-time Olympian Daniel Bluman of Israel and six-time U.S. Olympian McLain Ward. Kent Farrington, Ward’s three-time Olympic teammate, will be competing to win the Hampton Classic Grand Prix title. Also, Father-daughter olympians Mario Deslauriers and Lucy Deslauriers will be in this year’s show. Shane Sweetnam and Darragh Kenny from Ireland are additional competitors this year. And finally, Australia’s Thaisa Erwin and Nayel Nassar from Egypt are also eager to participate.

Apart from the world-class show jumping competitions that take place, there are also family events, high-end shopping, and yes—fashion.

Yep, you guessed it. The Hampton Classic is just as much about fashion as it is about horses. Attendees often wear elegant outfits such as tailored dresses, flowy blouses and fancy pants (trousers). Equestrian-esque fashion is also a big trend at the show—there’s nothing like a good pair of riding boots or tailored blazer to bring together an outfit. Basically, this is the type of event that you’ll want to wear your most polished look to.

As fancy as the event seems, admission is quite forgiving. Tickets are going for twenty dollars per carload. Tuesday through Thursday have free admission for seniors and veterans, as well as current members of the military (or if you bring 3 or more non perishable food items for the Sag Harbor Food Pantry).

So, will PhotoBook magazine see you at the Hampton Classic this year?

Article by Brya Sheridan, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
Tearsheets by Jung Chou, Graphic Design Intern, PhotoBook Magazine

Inside the Hampton Classic: Glamour, Horses and High Society