Longines Watch Partners with Hampton Classic Horse Show

Longines has agreed a long term partnership deal the Hampton Classic Horse Show, further strengthening the Swiss watchmaker's involvement in equestrian sports.

The Hampton Classic is one of the largest outdoor horse shows in the USA, with the 2013 edition taking place from August 25th to September 1st. The show features more than 100 classes of competition for horses and riders of all ages, and the new support from Longines brings the Hampton Classic Horse Show into an FEI-recognised class.

Shanette Barth Cohen, Executive Director of the Hampton Classic, said: "We are so excited to welcome Longines to the Hampton Classic’s family of sponsors. Through its commitments to the FEI and other major entities like the Global Champions Tour, Longines has established itself as one of the world’s biggest supporters of equestrian sports and we are thrilled that they have chosen to include the Hampton Classic in this elite group."

As part of the new long term partnership, Longines will providing the official timekeeping for all events. The luxury watch brand will also assume title partnership of the Saturday afternoon Grand Prix, the $40,000 Longines Cup; as well as presenting partnership of the Friday afternoon $50,000 Spy Coast Farm / Young Horse Show Series Grand Prix Qualifier.

"Longines is very proud to be the Official Watch and the Official Timekeeper of the Hampton Classic Horse Show," said Walter von Känel, President of Longines. "Longines and the Hampton Classic Horse Show share a very strong tradition and values such as performance and elegance."

Longines will also introduce the new Longines Rider Challenge, awarding $30,000 to the rider who accumulates the most points in the Open Jumper division.