Hampton Classic continues in Bridgehampton ahead of holiday weekend

Sammie Jackson trains at Firefly Farm in Bridgehampton.

News 12 Staff and Jon Dowding

Aug 29, 2024, 4:38 PM

Updated 15 days ago

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Summer may be coming to a close but the party isn’t stopping on the East End.
The world famous Hampton Classic continued Thursday in Bridgehampton.
News 12’s Jon Dowding was at the event with the latest.
The best in the world competes in the Hampton Classic every year, including some Long Islanders.
Sammie Jackson trains at Firefly Farm in Bridgehampton.
"Everyone comes from so far to be here and we're actually pretty close. We're just from down the road,” she said.
Sisters Charlotte And Alexandra Murray grew up coming to the Hampton Classic.
"It was a dream always to grow up and ride in the Hampton Classic,” said A. Murray.
Both sisters competed at an event they describe as a national treasure.
"One of the things that makes this venue just spectacular is the atmosphere, the community that comes around the horse show, the community that also supports the horse show, helps run it,” said A. Murray.
Olympic silver medalist Peter Leone says the riders don’t just need to be in good shape.
“This sport is so difficult, so complex, so challenging that horse and rider both have to be in the very best form to succeed here,” he said.
Charlotte shared some advice to young riders who also dream of competing at the Hampton Classic one day.
"Commitment is huge, and training as much as possible is my biggest piece of advice,” said C. Murray.