Photo courtesy of Hampton Classic. Photographer: Shawn McMillen
Proving that horseback riding is indeed a lifelong sport, the gold went to Irish rider Kevin Babington at Sunday’s $250,000 Hampton Classic Grand Prix presented by Land Rover.
At age 46, Babington demonstrated that there is no end in sight for this Olympian’s career. He won the Sunday event by with the fastest fault-free round in the jump off besting the field of over 30 riders in the historic equestrian event that culminates summer fun in the Hamptons each year.
Over 15,000 spectators watched the Grand Prix event
Babington’s victory took place in front of the 15,000 fans who came to see or be seen. The horse show is noted for its attraction to celebrities who come for the spectacle or to watch their children ride. Notables at this year’s event included Jerry Seinfeld, Jennifer Lopez, Matt Lauer, as well as former New York Mayors Michael Bloomberg and Rudy Giuliani.
For over 30 years, Babington has competed in horse shows including the Athens Olympics and numerous Grand Prix jumper events. Sunday’s victory came after a big splash he made in an earlier class where he was dumped by his horse into the water jump. Not phased, he went on to clean up in the afternoon spectacular.
According to the organizers of The Hampton Classic, the show “is always a grand way to end the summer. Held in high regard by the horse community, famous for its Hamptons Celebrity sightings, and second to none in high end shopping boutiques, it earns its nickname The Classic.” Next year’s dates have been announced as Sunday, August 23 through Sunday, August 30, 2015.
