Last spring Bob Bell, president of Classic Company, debuted the first Boutique Horse Show at the historical Harmon Field in Tryon to rave reviews and numerous requests to repeat the event. Hes obliging on May 28 through the 30.

Bell created a new definition for this event that has not only become catchy among exhibitors, but with local residents as well. Boutique (boo teek)-noun- A horse show that is fashionable and unique. Always held at wonderful venues with excellent accommodations for special horses, owners, and riders. Always includes parties, trendy classes, and fun events. Always has stylish trophies and rewards for Grand Champions. Always has Mimosas on Sunday mornings.

2010 will be no exception in standards with the awarding of Silver Trophies to division winners and the naming of three Grand Champions, the Best Young Horse, a Grand Junior rider, and Grand Amateur rider all to be presented very special trophies courtesy of The Farm House.

Bell is expanding the class offerings for the 2010 Boutique event. The popular Opportunity Classes are now included on the schedule, for those unfamiliar; these classes do not require either rider or horse to be a member or registered with USEF or USHJA. Opportunity classes premiered at the Gulf Coast Winter Classics in 2009 and quickly became of staple of Classic Company events. These classes are the perfect way for beginners to experience all the trappings of an A rated horse show without all the expense or worry about performance of the upper levels. Bell explained.

There are four divisions of the Opportunity classes; Freshman Horsemanship with its Walk-Trot class, Walk-TrotPole, and Walk-Trot-XRail for those just learning about jumping. Next step up are the Sophomore Horsemanship classes comprised of Walk-Trot- Canter, Walk-Trot-Canter-Poles, and Walk-Trot-Canter XRails. Following are the Junior Opportunity Horsemanship classes of Walk-Trot-Canter, and two sections of Walk-Trot-Canter XRails designed for riders moving towards show levels. And finally the Senior section for riders who are ready for the big show, but would like a test run. This section offers Walk-Trot-Canter and two classes of walk-Trot-Canter XRails with fences set slightly higher. Returning for the May event are rider favorites Betty and Ernest Oare as judges extraordinaire.

Bell still recalls the finer details of Tryons glory show days from 25 years ago and wishes to restore that grandeur at the Boutique event – creating a smaller more intimate gathering, polished Silver Trophies, and Champagne served ringside as spectators, riders, and show officials alike picnic under the trees. What better place than the renovated Harmon Field, which until 2009 hadnt hosted an A show in more than 20 years. Bell saw the charm and memories of Harmon Field as the perfect spot for this revitalized horse showing experience for adults and children.

Harmon Fields renovations include building 144 new stalls, three new rings with proper footing, a sound system, and even a measuring block. Bell envisions the Boutique show as a win-win for everyone. On the economic side of this, we can all contribute to a lovely town via the hotels, B & Bs, and wonderful dining options. Exhibitors will experience a more personal and affordable show. Bell said.

Another highlight of the Boutique show will be double judged-double points in the Hunter Breeding classes and the presentation of the Arthur Reynolds Best Young Horse Silver Trophy – Reynolds was a great National Show Hunter Hall of Fame horsemen and father of Betty Reynolds Oare.

For more information on the Boutique event visit www.classiccompany.com or call the office at 843.768.5503. Prize List are available online or at The Farm House. Entries will be limited and early reservations are recommended.