Hampton Classic adds prize money

The Hampton Classic, a weeklong event that regularly brings 1,200 horses and tens of thousands of people to Bridgehampton at the end of summer every year, is getting a little bigger.

The Classic, for its 36th season, is adding a $50,000 U.S. Hunter Jumper Association prize, putting up a new VIP tent next to its Jumper Ring II and opening its $10,000 Hermes Hunter Classic competition to amateur-owner competitors as well as to junior and amateur-owner competitors who jump at the lower 3’6” level, which will allow every amateur rider to compete in a rated division.

The Classic, scheduled for Aug. 28 to Sept. 4, will finish with its $250,000 FTI Grand Prix, an event that regularly draws world-class competitors and members of the U.S. Olympic Team.