by Emily Randolph | Apr 29, 2024 |
San Juan Capistrano, CA – April 29, 2024 – The San Juan Capistrano International, to be held May 8-12, and the Blenheim Surf & Turf Classic, to be held May 15-19, will now take the stage at the legendary Los Angeles Equestrian Center in Los Angeles, CA.
The Blenheim EquiSports cast is looking forward to hosting two weeks of top-notch competition at the one-of-a-kind venue steeped in history and is deeply appreciative to the LAEC staff for rolling out the red carpet for Blenheim EquiSports’ competitors.
The horse shows’ move to the City of Angels comes following a statement published on April 25, 2024, by the Orange County Coastkeeper which referenced the running of equestrian operations at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park in San Juan Capistrano, CA – where the San Juan Capistrano International CSI3* and Blenheim Surf & Turf Classic were to be held. Upon this statement, the Ridland Group – which operates the aforementioned facility – in concert with the United States Equestrian Federation, engaged in discussions with alternate facilities, and the LAEC graciously opened their doors.
While the Orange County Coastkeeper’s objections led to a change in the storyline for Blenheim EquiSports’ May events, the show must go on!
“In preparing our venue for these events, we sincerely thank Blenheim Equisports, The Ridland Group and the USEF for their trust and partnership,” said Leigh Anne Claywell, General Manager of the Los Angeles Equestrian Center. “Rest assured, LAEC is committed to delivering a performance that not only meets but exceeds the high expectations befitting such distinguished competitions. This will be a show that can’t be missed!”
The 75-acre LAEC has been an icon of the Southern California equestrian scene for more than 40 years and provides a range of outstanding facilities, which will now set the stage for the following during the Blenheim May shows:
- USEF National Hunter and Level 4 Jumper competition each week
- A USHJA International Hunter Derby during the San Juan Capistrano International and USHJA National Hunter Derby classes both weeks
- Weekly grand prix classes and more!
The venue change is currently pending USEF approval, following which a detailed schedule will be released and will be available at ThePlaceToJump.com. Additional information will also be forthcoming regarding entering, reserving stalls and ordering feed and bedding. In addition, Blenheim EquiSports will soon be able to assist anyone requiring a refund from the originally planned events.
The Ridland Group additionally acknowledges and respects the issues raised by Orange County Coastkeeper regarding the compliance of the Clean Water Act and would like to affirm a wider ongoing commitment to uphold the highest standards of environmental conservation throughout the operations at the Riding Park.
Blenheim EquiSports and The Ridland Group appreciate the great cooperation, support and understanding of all involved with equestrian competition in San Juan Capistrano, CA. Both teams are doing everything in their power behind the scenes to ensure the bright future of equestrian sport at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park.
For the latest updates, follow Blenheim EquiSports on Facebook here, and visit the website at ThePlaceToJump.com. To learn more about the Los Angeles Equestrian Center, visit TheLAEC.com.
