September 2022 Issue

EAST COAST EQUESTRIAN September 2022 Page 29 setting to watch each horse and riders’ artistic display of harmony and skill when performing their tests. Saturday night’s Grand Prix Freestyle performances are a crowd favorite, giving specta- tors the chance to cheer and clap along as their favorite horses dance once again, this time to their own unique music. This year’s show includes a World Cup qualifier for Grand Prix com- petitors, those competing at the highest level of the sport, giving them a chance to earn valuable qualifying points for next year’s 2023 FEI World Cup Dressage Finals in Omaha. In addition to the exciting competition, Dressage at Devon is proud to host Olympic silver medalist Sabine Schut-Kery for an exclusive masterclass on Thursday night in the Dixon Oval. The masterclass, presented by ShowPlus powered by Capti- veOne, will feature a variety of horses and riders of different ages and levels, making this educa- tional opportunity a must-see. Looking forward to a chance to dress up and watch the compe- tition with a cocktail in hand? The Kingsview Partners Roaring 20’s Party on Friday night is open to all who want to get a taste of the fun and enjoy the DVCTAQuadrille Team perform in style. Tickets, now available to reserve on the Dressage at Devon website, will include door prizes, great drinks, food, and dancing, all in the unique setting of the Devon Club while The Blackbird Society Orchestra sets the mood. Be sure to bring your best Great Gatsby get-up! 20s attire is highly encouraged. “The energy at Dressage at Devon is like no other dressage show in the U.S.,” said Jessica Jo Tate, Grand Prix dressage rider and Dressage at Devon Board member. “It is so exciting to compete in front of the crowds in that incredible grandstand. I've competed at Dressage at Devon for 15 years, and it remains my favorite show. Riding in the Sat- urday Night freestyle is always the most incredible feeling ever. The crowd gives it such a special energy and excitement. It's the most European-like show we have, and it gives us a taste of real international atmosphere." A well-loved, family-friend- ly venue in the area, the Devon Horse Show & Country Fair Grounds are well suited for wel- coming a crowd who may not be familiar with the ins and outs of equestrian competition. Fortu- nately, all one needs is to have an affinity for entertaining exhibi- tions, great shopping, cozy food, and socializing with like-minded people to have a memorable time. There is no shortage of special events at Dressage at Devon to keep spectators and competitors alike busy as can be. On Friday, the ladies of Dev- on are invited to wear their best traditional “show day” hat and at- tire to the grounds for a display of time honored tradition. The Kid’s Dressage Explorers Day, set to take place on Sunday, gives chil- dren and adults alike the opportu- nity to create their own stick horse and ride their newly fashioned mounts into the Dixon Oval to display their dressage movements with the help of an announcer and judging officials. Growing each year, Dressage Explorer’s Day will also include special exhibi- tions by Australian Horseman Guy McLean, a visit from the adoptable dogs of All4Paws Dog Rescue, and the annual blessing of the animals. New this year, Sunday will also be dubbed “Barn Day,” inviting barn groups from near and far to participate in the fun, showing their team spirit in coordinating outfits to vie for great prizes to take home. Dressage at Devon offers some of the best shopping avail- able at any equestrian event, with a long list of boutique vendors open all week that have one-of- a-kind apparel, jewelry, antiques, tack, home decor, and horse show souvenirs ready to be discovered. The food vendors at Devon, noted to be some of the best at any horse show, have numerous options for full meals or light snacks to enjoy while you watch the action. With unparalleled oppor- tunities to connect with other community members through a plethora of fun activities, build re- lationships, and attend parties and special events in a magical setting, it will have you wishing for more at the conclusion of the week. In addition to calling the iconic Dev- on Horse Show grounds home, what makes this event extraordi- nary is the pride that competitors, sponsors, staff, volunteers and spectators take in being a part of such a historic horse show year after year. To learn more, please visit DressageatDevon.org. Dressage at Devon: World-Class Competition and Family Fun (Continued from page 1) Tell our advertisers you found them in East Coast Equestrian!