The American Gold Cup, one of America's most exciting international show jumping events, is quickly approaching and promises high-flying horse and rider combinations as well as many other exciting and family-friendly events. Come for the world-class competition and stay for the acrobats and world-class musical performances. On Sunday, gates open at 11 a.m. and all activities are being sponsored by Practical Horseman. Don't miss all the fun and excitement before the American Gold Cup begins.
Family Fun If you've got young ones or are simply young-at-heart, the American Gold Cup, which runs from September 10-14, offers pony rides, face painting, a petting zoo and the popular JustWorld horseless horse show.
The Pied Piper Pony Rides and Petting Zoo has been in service for over 25 years educating children about animals and providing the opportunity for kids experience the joy of riding. Operator Melanie Pien, a mother of two, understands what makes kids smile and ensures the ponies are always safe and happy. After watching the speedy grand prix jumpers, any child at the American Gold Cup will be dying to ride one of the Pied Piper's friendly ponies.
The artistic and beautiful designs by professional face-painter Maria Peyramaure will certainly brighten up the Old Salem show grounds. Peyramaure is a true artist who takes great pride in the creativity and beauty that face-painting delivers. Her whimsical designs will make children of all ages smile.
The atmosphere at the American Gold Cup inspires young people to partake in show jumping. And any child may compete in the imaginative JustWorld Horseless Horse Show. On Sunday, pint-size competitors can try their own legs over a miniature show jumping course. Proceeds from the event benefit JustWorld's programs that aid children in need around the world.
Magical Acts The light-hearted fun doesn't stop there. Keep an eye open at the show grounds for some truly magical performers like Penny England the living statue, David Mezias a magician and juggler extraordinaire, and magician Richard Ellis. These three will be displaying their mystical talents around the show, providing amusing and intriguing sleights of hand and impressive feats.
High-Flying Fun The competitive show jumpers won't be the only ones soaring during the days of competition. High-flying acts like ImaginAerial and the leaping DiscDogs of Ed Jakubowski's K9 Crew will wow audience members with their unique acts. ImaginAerial consists of professional aerialists, acrobats and cirque-style artists who perform beautiful and breathtaking performances. They have been featured on America's Got Talent and have performed at the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas; they are truly a must-see act.
Musical Performances Contributing to the show's festive and fun atmosphere will be many harmonious musical acts from bagpipes to National Anthem singers.
Darius Kaufmann, a world-renowned musician, will display his skill with Celtic instruments on the bagpipes. His Celtic flair will add a wonderful musical background to the show.
Each day of competition will also highlight a uniquely talented singer performing the National Anthem. On Friday, Alison McConekey, an incredible opera soprano, will wow spectators with her beautiful tone and commanding stage presence. Saturday will showcase Maureen Hamill, an experienced theatrical singer. Sunday wraps up with some young talent from John Jay High School, 17-year-old Amber Lewis.
Equestrian Attractions Show jumping fans and enthusiasts will have the chance to meet last year's winner, Brianne Goutal at the American Gold Cup merchandise booth on Sunday at noon, where the talented rider will sign autographs.
With thrilling international show jumping competition and impressive, world-class athlete and horse combinations, the American Gold Cup is a can't-miss event. Add to that the family-friendly activities, musical performances and magical entertainers, and the American Gold Cup promises to please all spectators.
Beautiful Old Salem Farm hosts the American Gold Cup Old Salem Farm, located an hour north of New York City, boasts a state-of-the-art stabling facility, an historic pristine grass Grand Prix field and outstanding competition and schooling arenas, all of which are surrounded by one of the world's most quaint and picturesque competition venue settings. For the past two years, the Old Salem Farm competitions have been recognized by the North American Riders Group (NARG) on their NARG Top 25 List. For more information on Old Salem Farm, including its year-long competition schedule, prize lists, clinics, boarding, lessons and training, visitwww.oldsalemfarm.net.