From its origin as a way to encourage better breeding for the horses used with buggies and coaches in 1896, the Devon Horse Show has evolved into the oldest and largest outdoor multi-breed competition in the country, drawing equestrians from around the world.
For many in the area, the show represents a tradition that ushers in the summer season. This year, the show marks its 120th anniversary. Along with the Devon Country Fair, which is run by more than 2,000 volunteers, the show’s offerings are diverse, ranging from Olympic-hopeful competitions to boutique shops in miniature cottages, amusement rides and games for kids, and multiple dining options.
The 2016 show will open on Thursday, May 26, and run through Sunday, June 5. Proceeds support Bryn Mawr Hospital.
Organizers said this year’s visitors would benefit from a $1 million investment into the show grounds. The most dramatic addition will be an entirely new, two-story building located on Dorset Road, making it the centerpiece of the show grounds, a show press release said.
The first floor will house the emergency medical services facility sponsored by Bryn Mawr Hospital as well as the Horse Show Entries, management, public relations and ticketing offices for its staff members. The building will also include a first-class entertainment venue with specular orbital views of both the Dixon Oval and the Gold Ring.
"The tradition not only continues at Devon but improvements are being made with major enhancements to our grounds,” Devon Horse Show and Country Fair Chairman Wayne W. Grafton said in the release. “We are focused on making this a wonderful venue for competitors and attendees for many years to come.”
Other changes include additional space behind the East Grandstands for vendor rentals. Significant improvements to the footings, as well as laser leveling in all three rings will result in an improved experience for competitors.
A ‘Silver to Gold’ theme will define the 120th anniversary, highlighted by a new Anniversary Square, nestled outside Clydesdale’s Corner. Guests will be welcomed to gather on a grand, brick patio that provides a front-row panorama of the Schooling Ring. The sale of commemorative bricks for Anniversary Square will provide guests the opportunity to be indelibly linked to the Devon Horse Show.
In addition, more than 220 of the permanent barn stalls have been reconditioned to ensure the safety of the horses and their riders during the event. This project will be supported through the purchase of personalized horseshoes by exhibitors as well as direct donations.
"We are very excited about the new improvements to our barns, which will provide a safer environment for competitors and their horses,” Devon Horse Show and Country Fair President Richard O'Donnell said in the release.
For more information or to purchase tickets to the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair, please visit www.devonhorseshow.org. A schedule of events is available at http://www.devonhorseshow.net/wp-content/uploads/2016-Tentative-Time-Schedule-for-Website.pdf.
(No Ratings Yet)
Loading...
Comments