The Winter Equestrian Festival may be in full swing, but the South Florida equestrian community is gearing up for the much-anticipated Equestrian Sport Productions, LLC (ESP) Spring Circuit, a series of events that not only showcases equestrian talent but also embodies the spirit of giving back. This year, the ESP A-T Charity Spring I Horse Show once again sets the stage for a remarkable convergence of competition and charity, with proceeds benefiting the A-T Children's Project.
As competitors prepare to take the field, the $10,000 1.40m Open Welcome Stake, sponsored by Bainbridge, and the $10,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby, sponsored by Score at the Top, mark the commencement of the festivities on Thursday. These highlight classes are just the beginning of an action-packed schedule that includes the $5,000 1.35m Classic sponsored by Keyflow Feeds USA and the $1,000 2'6"- 2'9" Hunter Derby sponsored by SAS Equestrian and Stallwatch, LLC on Saturday. The competition crescendos into the weekend with the exhilarating $35,000 Spring 1 A-T Charity Grand Prix presented by Nutrena and Postage Stamp Farm, promising exciting show jumping competition on Sunday.
The A-T Children's Project, a beneficiary of the ESP A-T Charity Spring I Horse Show, underscores the ESP Spring Circuit's commitment to making a difference. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to advancing research and finding treatments for ataxia-telangiectasia (A-T), a rare genetic disease. By supporting this cause, the equestrian community is helping to accelerate the search for a cure, demonstrating the profound impact of combining sport with social responsibility. For information about sponsorship opportunities during the ESP A-T Charity Spring I Horse Show, please email Lenore Brown at lbrown@wellingtoninternational.com.
Building on the success of the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF), the ESP Spring Circuit offers competitors a chance to experience all that WEF has to offer at a discounted rate, maintaining the same competitive point system. The Spring II and Spring III Shows elevate the competition to new heights with FEI 3* competition on the prestigious Derby Field at Equestrian Village, while hunters take the spotlight in the International Arena at Wellington International. While the competition takes place, indulge in breakfast and lunch buffets, an open bar, and breathtaking views of the show jumping competition from the Global Pavilion at the Equestrian Village. To reserve your table, please fill out this form and email the document to Kathleen LaMour at klamour@wellingtoninternational.com.
In its second year, the Spring Equitation Championship sponsored by Arion Sellier is becoming a cornerstone of the ESP Spring Series. Set to take place during Spring II, this event invites junior riders to demonstrate their skill and style in the International Arena, with invitations extended to ribbon winners of significant 2023 and 2024 equestrian events. This initiative not only showcases emerging talent but also provides a prize incentive for trainers, fostering an environment of excellence and encouragement.
With the prize list now available and the 2024 ESP Annual Circuit promising unforgettable moments of sportsmanship and solidarity, the equestrian community is set for a season of high stakes and high spirits. As Equestrian Sport Productions releases dates for events through December 2024, competitors, fans and sponsors can look forward to more opportunities to celebrate equestrian excellence and contribute to meaningful causes.
