The
Horse Shows by the Bay Equestrian Festival is a familiar event in Traverse City, but it's got news this year: the shows will be expanding to five straight weeks this year.
The festival brings some of the top horses and riders in the U.S. to Traverse City to compete in several disciplines. It's run by Horse Sports by the Bay, Inc. and takes place at Flintfields Horse Park.
The lengthened schedule begins on June 30 with two nationally-rated dressage shows, Dressage by the Bay Series I and II. That includes breed shows, musical freestyle competition and qualifying events for regional and national championships.
Then, four weeks of hunter and jumper competitions follow, from July 6 to July 31. Events include a show jumping grand prix, children's and adult jumper prix, national and international hunter derbies, and sanctioning for World Championship Hunter Rider status.
The festival's offerings include family activities, pony events, socials, fundraisers, and plenty of nearby relaxation and recreation opportunities as well.
"I can't think of a better place to spend the summer then 'up north' in beautiful Northwest Michigan," says Alexandra Rheinheimer, show manager. "Traverse City has so much to offer, especially if you like spending your spare time on the water or out on the golf course. Our circuit is truly great for families looking for more than just a horse show--but rather a vacation of sorts."
For the shows, new surfaces and footing are being installed in the main competition arena; David Steffee of Steffee Surfaces in Wellington, Florida is doing that work.
In all, the shows offer more than $550,000 in prize money and awards. About 1,500 horses are expected to compete.
Writer: Sam EgglestonSource: Alexandra Rheinheimer, Horse Shows by the Bay
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