With the Hampton Classic canceled, consider these equestrian alternatives that channel the spirit of the summer tradition.
Amaryllis Farm Equine Rescue
This equine rehabilitation center was founded in 1989 with the mission to give abandoned horses and ponies a refuge, and where young and adult riders alike could forge meaningful equine-human relationships. Despite the times, Amaryllis still has a roster of programs set for the fall. Children ages 5 and up may enroll in a private or sibling group pony-care workshop. Meanwhile, adults can foster their own love of horses with a beginning riding series of 10 lessons. We recommend Medicine Horses, a unique 90-minute private class for adults that is designed to destress, recenter and rejuvenate one’s entire being. And adoptions are always available: Sponsor one of Amaryllis’ three dozen animals for a week, a month, a year or life! Currently, the equine rescue is fundraising to build a barn and covered arena, so programs here may continue year-round. Private tours as well as the Private Pony Experience for parents and children under 5 years of age may be booked by reservation.
864 Lumber Lane, Bridgehampton, 631.537.7335, amaryllisfarm.com
Center for Therapeutic Riding of the East End
The CTREE has recently moved into a brand-new space renovated by Kevin Warren of John Hummel and Associates, which it hopes to use as an interactive barn to host summer camps, school groups and vocational programs. “All of our animals are horses who have had long, arduous careers that are now here for our riders to enjoy,” says Managing Director Karen T. Bocksel. CTREE offers therapeutic riding lessons and equine-assisted activities for children, young adults and veterans with cognitive, physical or emotional disabilities. Programming is currently back to prepandemic status; after a soft opening two months ago, the center is now aiming to take on more riders this fall.
93 Merchants Path, Sagaponack, 631.779.2835, ctreeny.org
The Rider’s Closet
Founded in 2006 by professional equestrian and Classic regular Georgina Bloomberg, The Rider’s Closet provides free show and schooling attire to equestrians in need. TRC has been working hard this summer to meet increasing requests from families struggling to afford the cost of sports and recreational activities. A program of the EQUUS Foundation, TRC relies on many corporate partnerships and individual donors to maintain its inventory of new and gently used apparel. Locally, Brennan’s Bit & Bridle (42 Snake Hollow Road Commons, Bridgehampton) collects donations year-round for TRC.
Photography by: Courtesy of Amaryllis Farm Equine Rescue
