Venerable Competition One of the Oldest and Most Prestigious Shows in the Country
The Pin Oak Charity Horse Show, Houston, Texas, one of the country’s oldest and most prestigious horse competitions, has officially launched its 65th season. This year’s show will be held, once again, at the Great Southwest Equestrian Center in Katy, TX starting on March 17, 2010 and will run through March 28. It was announced that BBVA Wealth Solutions would be returning as the lead sponsor of the show.
Founded in 1945 by Houston philanthropist James S. Abercrombie and his wife Lillie, The Pin Oak Charity Horse Show got its start as a fundraiser for the first hospital in Houston dedicated to children, and the proceeds of the 1947 show provided a considerable portion of the initial backing that established Texas Children’s Hospital in the Texas Medical Center. To date, the show has raised close to $4 million for Texas Children’s Hospital and Ronald McDonald House of Houston.
The Pin Oak Charity Horse Show will be held over a two-week period and will feature a wide array of equestrian talent featuring hunters and jumpers, American Saddlebreds, Andalusians, Welsh ponies, Dressage and the United Mountain Horse breed. The crown jewels of the event take place throughout the two weeks. Saturday evening of Week One features the $30,000 Nordic Lights Farm Grand Prix and Championship Finals. Week Two features the $15,000 Chronicle of the Horse USHJA International Hunter Derby hosted by Valobra Jewelry and Antiques on Friday and the $30,000 Grand Prix presented by the Houston Area Audi Dealers on Saturday. This year, a USEF “AA” and THJA “A” hunter show week one will feature all Junior and Amateur Owners, Juniors, equitation and classics.
For a complete show schedule, visit the Pin Oak Charity Horse Show web site at www.pinoak.org or call 713.621.6290.
