June 24, 2013 – East Dorset, Vermont – Thanks to the generous support of its sponsors, the Vermont Summer Festival will offer more than $750,000 in prize money during this year’s six-week equestrian event.  The richest sporting event based on purse in the state of Vermont, the Vermont Summer Festival returns to Harold Beebe Farm in East Dorset, VT, from July 2 through August 11.

Attracting some of North America’s top show jumpers, the Vermont Summer Festival is known for its quality competition, outstanding location and friendly atmosphere.  Add to that an impressive line-up of sponsors and generous prize money and the Vermont Summer Festival becomes a premier horse show event.

“As we celebrate our 20th anniversary of bringing world-class show jumping to the Manchester area, we’ve certainly been reflecting about many of our long-term sponsors,” said Ruth Lacey, Marketing Director for the Vermont Summer Festival.  “Their support truly does make a difference and helps us to continue to enhance the grounds and offer more prize money.  We couldn’t produce this event without the support of so many local businesses and national equestrian brands.”

Returning for a 12th consecutive year as a grand prix sponsor, the award-winning Equinox Resort & Spa will also throw open its doors and welcome competitors to stay in one of its 195 rooms and suites.  Established in 1769, the resort is situated on more than 1,300 picturesque acres between the Green and Taconic Mountains and offers three restaurants on site as well as an exciting mix of outdoor activities including falconry, fly fishing and golf.

Joining Equinox as a returning sponsor is Johnson Horse Transportation, the official equine carrier of the Vermont Summer Festival and member of the National Horse Carriers Association since 1999.  With over 20 years experience, Johnson prides itself on offering top-notch service, state of the art equipment, and knowledgeable and experienced drivers.

Hand Motors, a franchised Chevrolet and Volkswagen dealer in Manchester Center, will also be a returning presenting sponsor in the grand prix ring for 2013.  This family-run business has been offering exceptional service and great value for more than 40 years.

Equine nutrition specialist Purina Horse Feeds will once again be sponsoring a grand prix event during the six-week competition.  Their wide variety of feeds and supplements provide complete nutritional requirements for all equines, from the pleasure horse to the performance horse.

The first five Saturdays of the Vermont Summer Festival will feature a $30,000 Grand Prix.  The $50,000 Vermont Summer Celebration Grand Prix will be held during the sixth and final week on Saturday, August 10.  The weekly $10,000 Open Welcome Stake, Presented by Manchester Designer Outlets, will be held each Thursday.  The hugely popular $5,000 3’3” Hunter Derby will also be held each Thursday for the first five weeks, with week six featuring the $15,000 Hunter Derby.

For over 20 years, the Vermont Summer Festival has attracted exhibitors and their families to the Manchester region in southern Vermont.  Known for its wide variety of area amenities including a large range of lodging options, restaurants to suit every taste, outdoor activities, and lots and lots of shopping, Manchester-area businesses warmly welcome horse show competitors to the area each summer.

The Vermont Summer Festival is a proud member event of the Show Jumping Hall Of Fame, the Marshall & Sterling League, and the North American League (NAL).  For more information about the Vermont Summer Festival, please e-mail: info@vt-summerfestival.com or visit
www.vt-summerfestival.com.