LEG Up News: Portuguese Bend National Horse Show - A National Treasure

Source: News Release

Portuguese Bend National Horse Show: A National Treasure

Nearly $13 Million Donated to Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles

Fans of the Portugese Bend National Horse Show (Sep 6-8), a benefit show for the Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, have even more to look forward to this year with increased prize money, a special presentation for the show's recognition as a USEF Heritage Horse Show, plus the annual offering of medal finals, classics, and more.

Amanda McQuady and Picardo top the inaugural Barby Hartwig Hereford Junior/Amateur Owner Jumper Classic
Photo: Captured Moment Photography

The Barby Hartwig Hereford Junior/Amateur Owner Jumper Classic, sponsored by Mark Hereford, now offers $10,000 in prize money. "I grew up in Portuguese Bend, just two blocks from the riding stables, and I was nine years old when the show began in 1957," he recalled. "It was the biggest event of the year for this tiny community. When I met Barby in 1982, she informed me that she had won the Vanderlip Trophy at the Portuguese Bend Show in 1970. I told her I used to work the ring crew and I probably picked up some of her rails. She said, 'Not mine; I never knocked any down.' I eventually learned what an accomplished rider she had been. Last year was a unique opportunity to again be a part of this wonderful horse show by sponsoring the classic. It was an extreme honor and privilege to sponsor this class on behalf of my wife Barby Hartwig Hereford."

A serious competitor awaits his turn in the ring
Photo: Captured Moment Photography

The 2012 winner, Amanda McQuady (Team McAllister, trainer) had nothing but praise for the class and the show. "I had heard it was a super nice charity horse show and that they'd just gotten new footing," Amanda commented. "I wanted to try something new and exciting. We trailered in for the classic, but I had a great time. I loved the atmosphere and how well the show was run. It was an honor to win the first Barby Hartwig Hereford Junior/Amateur Owner Jumper Classic, and I look forward to attending the Portuguese Bend show in the future."

Jumper riders can also look forward to the $15,000 Seahorse Open Jumper Classic, while equitation riders will have their day in the sun with the PCHA Horsemanship Medal Finals for riders 14 & Under and the Victor Hugo-Vidal PCHA Adult Horsemanship Finals for riders 35 and over.

In 2012, the Portuguese Bend National Horse Show was honored with the Heritage Designation by the USEF, and USEF CEO John Long will attend this year’s event to make a formal presentation at the afternoon performance on September 8. USEF Heritage Competitions have been in existence for 25 years or more, have promoted and grown equestrian sport, and made contributions to the community outside the show by promoting sportsmanship and competition. These are all things Portuguese Bend has delivered on in spades.

Mary and Bill Mealer making memories at the 2012 Portuguese Bend National Horse Show
Photo: Captured Moment Photography

"We are honored to receive the Heritage Competition designation from the USEF and feel privileged to have John Long make the official presentation at our Portuguese Bend National Horse Show," commented Bette Moen, President of the Peninsula Committee Children’s Hospital, speaking on behalf of Horse Show Chairman Val Kelly as well as herself. "We will continue to work diligently to maintain our commitment to the development and promotion of the sport."

As John Long explained, “These shows have become a part of the fabric of the American showing scene. With their endurance, dedication to philanthropic efforts, and impact on their communities, they are perfect examples of what we look for when designating Heritage Competitions.”

Tonya Johnston celebrates her reserve championship in the PCHA Adult Medal Final
Photo: Captured Moment Photography

The Portuguese Bend National Horse Show enters its 56th year in 2013. Since its inception, this benefit show has raised nearly $13 million for the Children's Hospital of Los Angeles. This A rated USEF, LAHJA, and PCHA show runs at Ernie Howlett Park in Rolling Hills Estates, California.

For more information on the Portuguese Bend National Horse show, visit their websiteor contact the show manager at robinserfass@cox.net or 760-753-0431. The prize list will be available online after June 1 at www.signaturesport.net.

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