About us
The Lake Placid Horse Shows have a storied history that reflects both the challenges and triumphs of the show jumping world. Since their inception in 1970, they have grown to become a premier destination in the hunter-jumper circuit. Here’s a concise overview:
Early Beginnings
- 1930s: The Lake Placid Riding Club began hosting gymkhanas, races, and summer meets, marking Lake Placid’s first foray into horse shows.
- WWII Era: Horse shows were paused during World War II.
Revival and Growth
- 1970: The current iteration of the Lake Placid Horse Show began with a preliminary “Token Horse Show” hosted by the East Kiln Pony Club at Ruth Newberry’s farm.
- 1971: Mrs. Newberry, along with her daughter Jessica and other top riders, organized the first official Lake Placid Horse Show, drawing 145 top horses.
- 1972: Eugene R. Mische was hired as horse show manager, and the addition of the $10,000 Adirondack Grand Prix in 1973 significantly boosted the event’s profile.
Expansion and Challenges
- 1978: The show was split into the original Lake Placid Horse Show and the I Love New York Horse Show to manage its growing prominence.
- 1984 & 1988: The Lake Placid Horse Show served as the final selection trial for the U.S. Olympic show jumping team, contributing to gold and silver medals.
- 1985-1986: Severe weather led to financial difficulties, but strong local support helped rescue the event.
Leadership Changes
- 1992: Richard M. “Dick” Feldman took over as Chairman, enhancing the show’s reputation with improvements such as the Doggie Costume Contest and the Equestrian Window Decorating Contest. His tenure also saw the addition of expanded facilities and cable telecasts.
- 2018: Feldman passed away, leaving a legacy honored by naming significant awards and features after him.
Pure Tradition & Excellence
Recent Developments
- 2020: The shows were canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic but returned in 2021.
- 2021 & 2022: Notable performances included Alex Matz and Laura Chapot sweeping both Grand Prix events in their respective years.
- Present: Under Chairman Philip Richter, the Lake Placid Horse Shows continue to thrive, attracting top competitors and earning accolades such as the USEF Heritage Competition designation.
The Lake Placid Horse Shows remain a vital and celebrated event in the horse show world, reflecting both the resilience and the high standards of the sport.
The future
For over 54 years, the Lake Placid Horse Show has thrived at the historic 1980 Olympic Opening Ceremonies Site, enchanting equestrian enthusiasts with its legacy of excellence. Your partnership ensures the Lake Placid Horse Show remains a premier equestrian event, celebrating tradition and excellence at the historic 1980 Olympic Opening Ceremonies Site. Together, let’s build a legacy that lasts for generations to come.
Meet Our Team
Philip Richter
Chairman
Lori Martin
Executive Director
Allen Rheinheimer
Manager
Offficers
| Philip Richter – Chairman | Timothy Hooker – Secretary |
| Brian Sweeney – Vice President | Robert Gierkink – Treasurer |
Board Members
| Burrows, Debbie | Field, Chloe | Matz, Alex |
| Boyd, Robert | Fitzgerald, Lori | McNeil, Collin (XC) |
| Cascio, Stacy | Gierkink, Robert | Schechter, Richard |
| Currey, Christian | Lippert, Diane | Stretton, Sara |
| Feldman, Diana | Goutal, Marteau, Brianne |
| Show Secretary | Colleen Morrissey |
| Executive Assistant | Lorissa Martin |
Services
Exhibitors
Partner
Spectators
Vendors
Contact
info@lphorseshows.com
(518)-523-9625
5514 Cascade Road
Lake Placid NY 12946
2025 Dates
Lake Placid Horse Shows
June 24 – June 29
I Love NY Horse Show
July 1 – July 6