By Suzanna Bowling
Bridgehampton once again played host to the pinnacle of equestrian sport as the Hampton Classic Horse Show marked its 50th anniversary in spectacular style. Each year, approximately 50,000 attendees descend on the East End to witness the nation’s finest equestrian athletes compete across six beautifully appointed show rings, and this year was no exception.
From the $5,000 Citarella Open Jumper CSI2* to Sunday’s $400,000 Longines Hampton Classic 5* Grand Prix, the week was filled with world-class competition, breathtaking horsemanship, and unforgettable highlights. FEI competition drew international attention with marquee qualifiers sponsored by Wölffer Estate, Douglas Elliman, and CME Group, while the boutique garden and Stable Row provided a shopping experience that blended high fashion with equestrian heritage — Hermes, after all, began as a saddle maker.
On hand were Donna Karen, Molly Sims, Candace Bushnell, Jean Shafiroff, Ilene Smith Sichel, Roger Sichel, Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe and Georgina Bloomberg.
Families enjoyed Kids Day, complete with pony rides, petting zoos, and hands-on activities, proving the Classic is as much a community celebration as it is a sporting event. I had the pleasure of meeting 10-year-old jumper Ava Stryk who had just finished first in her class.
The VIP tent sparkled with 150 exquisitely designed tablescapes, created by brands, families, and tastemakers. The tables this year had names like Richard Rogers, Gagoshian, Bloomberg, Hermes, and Porsche to name a few. I personally loved the Stryk’s table decked out like a Arizona version of “Yellowstone”. It was a reminder that the Hampton Classic is more than a horse show — it’s a cultural tradition, a showcase of creativity, and a defining mark of Hamptons chic.
