The 76th annual HITS Del Mar National Horse Show at the iconic HITS Del Mar Horsepark in Del Mar, CA, features the best in both dressage and hunter/jumper sport. While dressage competition takes place on April 17-20, hunter/jumper action follows on April 29-May 4.
The Del Mar National Horse Show has a deep-rooted history dating back to 1946 when it was first held at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. Because of its long-established tradition of excellence and substantial contribution toward the development and promotion of the sport throughout the equestrian community and beyond, the Del Mar National Horse Show has garnered the prestigious recognition as a USEF Heritage Show. The competition is one of the most anticipated equestrian events on the West Coast and welcomes athletes of all levels, from developing riders to Olympians.
The dressage week is highlighted by the international CDI3* division. Riders will strut down centerline for the FEI Grand Prix Qualifier for Special CDI3* and FEI Grand Prix Qualifier for Freestyle CDI3* on Saturday, April 19. The FEI Grand Prix Special CDI3* and FEI Grand Prix Freestyle CDI3* will feature on Sunday, April 20. The FEI Grand Prix Freestyle CDI3* is one of the few qualifying opportunities for the new US Equestrian Open Dressage Final. HITS Del Mar is one of just a handful of venues to have been selected as part of the qualifying process for the prestigious Final, which aims to showcase Olympic equestrian disciplines to a broader audience. Exhibitors and spectators alike can enjoy Sunday’s competition from the best seats in the house with a VIP brunch offering. In addition, the national side of the show aims to bring back historic sweepstakes classes and prize money.
In keeping with the grandeur the Del Mar National Horse Show is known for, more than 40 trophies will be presented in the arena during the hunter/jumper week. Friday’s competition on May 2 includes the $10,000 USHJA Open National Hunter Derby, the $10,000 USHJA Junior/Amateur National Hunter Derby, and the $20,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby, presented by Great American Insurance Group, all featuring on the picturesque grass field. The day concludes with the exhilarating $15,000 STX Open Speed jumper class, which will see riders racing for the top prize. Of course, not to be missed, the marquee event of the week, the $80,000 Grand Prix of Del Mar, presented by Core Specialty Insurance, takes place on Saturday, May 3, at 2:00 p.m.
In addition to thrilling horse sport, the hunter/jumper week of the Del Mar National Horse Show is also highlighted by several fun activities, exhibitions, and shopportunities for equestrian enthusiasts of all ages. An exciting dog agility event will get the crowd in gear on Saturday, with the top pup winning the coveted Best in Show title. In a nod to the Kentucky Derby, all are encouraged to don a hat most worthy of the Derby festivities for a chance to be awarded the Best Hat honors. Plus, a variety of food options and vendors will be available all week long.
For more information about the one-of-a-kind HITS Del Mar National Horse Show, please visit www.HITSShows.com.
