Hunter Sport Takes Center Stage in Europe

The refined elegance of hunter sport is about to make history. For the first time ever, this traditionally North American discipline is going global with the debut of the Baran Global Hunter Classic, held July 11–13 at the Longines Tops International Arena in Valkenswaard, Netherlands.

With its €300,000 prize purse, innovative team format, and top-tier field of international talent, this landmark event is redefining what it means to be a hunter rider—and putting the sport on the world map in a way never seen before.

A Global Debut for a Timeless Discipline

Set against the immaculate backdrop of Valkenswaard’s renowned Longines Tops International Arena, the Baran Global Hunter Classic is more than a competition—it’s a showcase of style, tradition, and world-class athleticism.

Unlike its speed-driven cousin, show jumping, hunter competition is judged on rhythm, form, and smooth execution. Courses are designed to mimic the natural fences found in the hunt field, with an emphasis on elegance, rideability, and consistent pace. Riders are scored not just on completing the course, but on how beautifully they do it.

For fans unfamiliar with the format, this is an ideal entry point into a sport that combines equestrian finesse with artistry—and now, international flair.

The Schedule: Three Days of Elite Performance

The weekend kicks off on Friday, July 11 with the Baran Under Saddle Class at 6:00 PM CEST (12:00 PM EDT), where riders will demonstrate their horses’ movement on the flat.

On Saturday, July 12, the focus shifts to the Baran Hunter Classic Round, beginning at 3:30 PM CEST (9:30 AM EDT).

Finally, the event concludes with the high-stakes Baran Handy Hunter Round on Sunday, July 13, at 2:45 PM CEST (8:45 AM EDT)—a class designed to reward handiness, precision, and smart decision-making over a challenging course.

Not Just Anyone Can Enter

Earning a spot in Valkenswaard is no small feat. The Baran Global Hunter Classic is by invitation only, with a strict qualification process designed to ensure that only the very best in the sport take part.

Professional Hunter Riders & Team Captains

• The top three finishers from the 2024 USHJA International Hunter Derby Championships automatically qualify.
• Five additional riders are invited based on combined year-end standings from the 2023 and 2024 USHJA World Champion Hunter Rider (WCHR) program.
• Two wild card spots are reserved for exceptional talents hand-picked by event organizers.

Juniors & Amateurs

Each team captain selects one junior or amateur rider, who must meet one of two strict criteria:

• Be named Champion or Reserve Champion in a 3’6” WCHR division between January 1, 2024, and April 1, 2025, or
• Have successfully completed a USHJA WCHR International Hunter Derby.

International Jumper Riders

In a unique twist, each team also includes an international jumper rider. These athletes must:

• Be ranked in the Top 50 of the Longines World Ranking List as of April 1, 2025, or
• Have represented their nation at the Olympics, FEI World Championships, World Cup Finals, or other elite-level events.

These riders are paired with hunter professionals and mounted on horses provided by the team captains, blending disciplines and skillsets in an exciting and unprecedented format.

A New Era for the Hunter World

The Baran Global Hunter Classic marks a major step in the international evolution of the sport. By combining team strategy, international collaboration, and hunter elegance, this event signals a bold new chapter—one where hunter riding claims its place alongside show jumping and dressage on the global stage.

As the world watches Valkenswaard this July, one thing is clear: hunter sport has arrived, and it’s here to stay.

Photo by Pexel.