November 28th was the 2nd annual Thanksgiving Classic held at The Carolina Horse Park. It consisted of 3 classes, the Open Hunter Classic, a 5 bar class, and a $5000 mini-prix. The weather was sunny and in the upper fifties, and everyone had a great time! CHP had a patron’s tent, ringside parking, and an option to purchase a $25 armband that entitled you to cocktails and lunch. CHP also honored it’s fantastic volunteers with their very own tent, food, and drinks. Many of us local professionals played the bartender role, and kept them filled with, beer, wine, bloody mary’s, and soda. Lunchtime also was entertained with a driving exhibition. The day started with 20 in the Hunter Classic, and then things turned exciting as the 5 bar class started with 7 entries, 4 of which were local eventers, including Bobby Costello, Will Faudree, and Susan Beebee. The last round went up to 5′!
The final class was the mini prix, and for me, was the most exciting! My good friend Will Faudree rode Last Monarch (Stewie), and they were so fun to watch. This class had 13 entries, and 8 made the jump off. Stewie was the only event horse in the pure jumper filled field, and finished 4th. He and Will actually had the fasted time, but a fault at the last cost them the win.
The Thanksgiving Classic is turning into an annual Thanksgiving tradition, and is sure to pick up steam! So please come join us next year, you won’t be disappointed.
