The iconic horse show is known as the place “Where champions meet.”
That’s the slogan over the main ring at Devon, a goal for many riders and an annual “must” for others. The show gets under way Wednesday.
The Budweiser Clydesdales in front of the iconic Devon grandstands during their last appearance at the show. (Photo © 2023 by Nancy Jaffer)
This year, it goes from 11 days to 12, with an addition to its schedule of junior classes that runs through the first weekend.
Driving always has been part of the show, and a tradition is the carriage pleasure driving, with judging starting at noon May 26.
After the juniors have gone home that day, the arena eventing is the evening feature with such stars as Boyd Martin and Buck Davidson competing.
The professional hunters start the next day, along with amateur jumpers and coaching, featuring the beautifully turned-out four-in-hand teams pulling gleaming vehicles.
The FEI jumpers begin on May 28. Those on the roster include many big names, among them McLain Ward and Daniel Bluman. Highlights of the week include the International Hunter Derby on the morning of May 30 and that night, the Sapphire Grand Prix of Devon (named after McLain’s famous mare). The final day of the show, June 2, is devoted to hunter breeding.
Special events include the Budweiser Clydesdales May 30 and June 1; the Shetland pony steeplechase May 26 and 27, and the Radnor Hunt Fox Hounds May 25.
The country fair is always a big attraction, and there’s a carnival with games and rides for the kids.
For more information and to buy tickets, go to Devon Horse Show.net.