Lexington, Ky. – March 1, 2016 – For more than 20 years, the Country Heir I and II Horse Shows have been a tradition at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky. Preparations for the 2016 shows are well under way, with grand expectations for the two week Premier competition, scheduled to run Wednesday, June 8 through Sunday, June 19.
Owner Frankie Stark has struck a unique balance with these shows, bringing together her loyal Ohio circuit following combined with some of the finest horses and riders from around the world.
Recently, Stark brought in two highly respected professionals, Tucker Ericson and JP Bordeleau, to manage these horse shows going forward.
“The goal is to create an enhanced, exhibitor-friendly environment while producing a world class event and competition,” said Ericson. “Today, equestrians have so many options, so we intend to earn their trust and support, building upon decades of Frankie’s hard work. Technical coordinator, Steve Stephens, JP [Bordeleau] and I are listening to the recommendations from trainers and exhibitors and have revised the schedule for 2016 accordingly.”
Photo courtesy of Phelps Media Group/Country Heir Show Series
New for 2016 will be a first class VIP and Sponsor Hospitality Pavilion, offering a wonderful retreat for trainers, exhibitors, sponsors and vendors to mingle and relax. In addition, Country Heir will host its first Local Day, an unrecognized day of competition held on Tuesday, June 14, between the two AA-rated events to create a more cost effective option for green horses and young riders to gain mileage and enjoy a great experience. Week II will feature the second annual $7,500 Pre-Green Incentive, in memory of dear friend Joe Darby. This event provides pre-green horses the opportunity to compete in the same ring the USHJA Pre-Green Incentive Finals are held in just two months later.
Country Heir will host two $30,000 USHJA International Derbies in 2016, providing exhibitors the chance to show in the USHJA International Hunter Derby Finals arena with courses by Alan Rheinheimer and Joe Carnicom. Monmouth at the Team, held at the USET Headquarters in Gladstone, New Jersey August 16-21 will sponsor a $5,000 Horse/Rider Bonus for anyone who wins both derbies or both grand prix at the shows this year.
Country Heir has begun partnering with businesses and professionals that want to promote their products and services, enhance prize money offerings and help to create an exceptional showing environment. Join CWD, Havens Schatt, Devoucoux, Dave Belford, Chris Payne, Monmouth at the Team and Roberts Arena to host one of the daily cocktail parties held in the Stonelea Pavillion, or consider one of many other sponsorship opportunities to support our efforts and market your business.
The Country Heir team will work with you to customize a package to meet your specific goals and needs. For details on sponsorship opportunities, prize list ads or vendor space, please contact Tucker at jtericson1969@gmail.com or 908-303-1956.
Country Heir in June will be riding high on the heels of their very successful eight-week winter circuit at Roberts Arena in Wilmington, Ohio. No doubt, Roberts Arena and the Kentucky Horse Park are two of the finest show facilities in the country today. We look forward to another exceptional year at the Kentucky Horse Park and encourage your ideas and feedback as we focus on exceeding your expectations with a first class event.
Prize lists will be mailed in March. Visit our website site (www.CountryHeir.com) for more information as it becomes available. Thank you for your continued support and we will see you at the ring!