From September 10-14, 2014, the grounds of the Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center (BTRC) in the city of Buffalo will play host to the 2014 Buffalo International Horse Show (BIHS). On those days, hunter/jumper horses and their riders will compete for top prizes in the region’s largest indoor riding ring.
It was in 2013 that the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) recognized the BIHS as one of only 14 USEF Heritage Status shows in the nation, giving Buffalo and the BTRC wide-ranging recognition for the designation. This was also a feather in the cap for the historic grounds and city’s only equestrian barn.
During the course of the International Horse Show, Buffalo will see hundreds of entries from across North America competing, with a $5,000 purse for the USHJA 3’ National Hunter Derby Classic (held on Saturday).
The mission of the BTRC is to offer therapeutic opportunities to children with special needs. The USEF Heritage Competition is the largest fundraising event held, with proceeds going towards the center’s ongoing programming agenda. “It’s been 10 years since we first offered our therapeutic riding program and, in that time, we’re honored to have served hundreds of children,” stated Susan Schoellkopf, director of the BTRC as well as the Buffalo Equestrian Center and SBS Farms, Inc. “There is a definite bond between horses and people but we find that bond is more significant when it comes to children with disabilities.”
The public is encouraged to attend The 68th Buffalo International Horse Show, which will be held at 950 Amherst Street. For show information, click here.
*Admission is free with the exception of the Friday and Saturday evening championship events; tickets for those events may be purchased at the gate for $5/person. In addition to scheduled events, a vendor fair of high quality gifts, leather goods and horse accessories will be held during show hours. Parking is available on both Great Arrow and Amherst Street. On Friday evening and all day Saturday and Sunday, there is additional parking at Tapestry Charter School’s lot on Great Arrow.
