Buck Davidson in the $50,000 Arena Eventing at the Devon Horse Show
Known as the place “Where Champions Meet,” the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair heralds in its 128th year of world class competition, May 22nd to June 2nd, 2024, at the historic Devon Show Grounds. The oldest and largest outdoor multi-breed horse show in North America, this year once again brings together elite equestrians from varied disciplines in one extraordinary 12-day event. Hunters, Equitation, Jumpers, Saddlebreds, Roadsters, Carriage Driving and Coaching alike will all have their chance to compete for a spot in the famed winner’s circle in the Dixon Oval.
From its humble beginnings in 1896, the first Devon Horse Show began as a one-day event that consisted of approximately thirty classes. The original show ring was constructed on grass and the judges and officials sat in a gazebo in ‘the center of the ring. Today, the Devon Horse Show boasts three impressive competition rings featuring hundreds of riders competing in over 300 classes with prize monies totaling close to $1million.
Elite open jumper athletes who ride at Devon this year will have the opportunity to vie in multiple classes for prizes and awards totaling over $487,000. These highly accomplished equestrians will have the chance to compete each night starting Tuesday, May 28th in the $38,700 Jet Run Welcome Stake, the $38,700 Main Line Challenge, the $226,000 Sapphire Grand Prix of Devon, the $38,700 Devon International Speed Stake, and the $145,100 Idle Dice Open Stake, a new grand prix class with jumps in both the Dixon Oval and Wheeler Ring with increased prize money. With a FEI CSI4 ranking, athletes competing in any of these events will be eligible to earn world ranking points.
On the show’s opening weekend, known as “Junior Weekend,” younger riders from around the country will compete for top honors starting Wednesday, May 22nd through Sunday, May 26th. These children and teen riders will have their time to shine in the famed Dixon oval through a range of disciplines including jumpers, hunters, equitation, and the highly coveted lead line classes.
2024 will also feature the country’s top hunter riders in high level competition. Recognized for its world-class hunter events, Devon will once again host a variety of hunter divisions, all with a US Equestrian (USEF) Premier hunter rating. A highlight of the week, these skilled athletes will compete for the top honor in the fan favorite $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, which will once again be sponsored by the Wheeler family. Competition for this event kicks off on Thursday, May 31st at 9 am.
Experience the timeless charm and rich heritage of Devon's Annual Carriage Pleasure Drive as it marks its 58th anniversary on Sunday, May 26th. Since its inception in 1966, this beloved event has been an integral part of the Devon Horse Show's storied history. On the Sunday before Memorial Day, spectators eagerly line the streets surrounding the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair, eagerly anticipating the procession of elegant carriages. It's a tradition that brings together enthusiasts and community members alike. The festivities begin with the spectator picnic judging at 11:00 am at St. David’s Church, followed by the parade's traditional drive back to the Devon Show grounds. The journey is filled with excitement and anticipation, culminating in the competitor awards ceremony in the iconic Dixon Oval at noon.
From Wednesday, May 29th through Saturday June 1st, the graceful Saddlebred, and Hackney competition classes take to the Dixon Oval. The $3,000 Five-Gaited Saddlebred Stake brings the elegance of these athletes to the forefront on Friday, May 31st.
The $50,000 Devon Arena Eventing returns for its 6th year. This extraordinary competition features a blend of cross-country and stadium jumps across both the Dixon Oval and Wheeler Rings. Open to the nation’s top athletes, the technically difficult course will once again be designed by Olympic Gold Medalist, Captain Mark Phillips of Great Britain.
Several family friendly exhibitions will also take place throughout the show. On Thursday, May 23rd, the canines take to the Dixon oval to compete in the Devon Dog Show. Presented by What A Good Dog, the show will include an exciting exhibition and three classes: Simon Says, Novelty Division, the Canine Lead Line Costume Parade, and the popular selfie station inside the Dixon Oval for all participants. Other must-see exhibitions include the always popular Radnor Hunt Hounds on Saturday May 25th and the WIHS Shetland Pony Steeplechase on Sunday May 26th and Monday May 27th. In addition, the Budweiser Clydesdales will perform on both Thursday, May 30th and Saturday, June 1st during the evening sessions.
Last but far from least, the 12 days will finish with the horse hunter breeding division which takes place in the Dixon Oval beginning at 8 am on Sunday, June 2nd. The most promising horses in the country will have their chance in the spotlight.
For more information about the 2024 Devon Horse Show and Country Fair and to purchase tickets, visit www.devonhorseshow.net