When Abigail Wexner invites you to her family barn to get a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into making the New Albany Classic such a hugely successful event, it is an invitation you do not turn down. I was honored to head out to the Wexner Estate with an intimate group of Columbus Media and Social Influences for the first ever, Coffee, Croissants and Carrots.
You know I love a VIP event and in Columbus, Wexner is about as VIP as it gets!
The grounds are breathtaking. To die for! And the team spared no expense when it came to thinking through every last detail of their presentation. We were told this was only the second time there has been a public event held at the Wexner White Barn, so it was truly an honor to get a glimpse into such a private and beautiful space.
This will be the 19th year for the New Albany Classic. I am always a little shocked when I find out about these fabulous events that have been happening right under my nose her in Columbus. What I was even more surprised to learn through out the morning was all of the amazing and unique attractions the Classic offers other than just horses!
Here I am thinking this is just a horse jumping event. I about fell off the couch when I saw the list of talent they’ve had for the Concert in the past years. Where have I been?
This year Kelsea Ballerini will kick the day off with a concert that is included in the price of admission.
Along with the fan favorite carnival rides, this year the Classic will offer added attractions from top films. If you want to ride Harry Potter’s broomstick or hold Katniss’s bow, all of those things will be available this year in New Albany on September 25th.
There will also be a tent full of Dinosaurs from, Jurassic Park, expanded from years past.
The Classic has also teamed up with the Greater Columbus Arts Council this year for a unique art opportunity that will later be on display in the community. Keep and eye out for that interactive mural when you visit the Classic this year!
There are over 400 dedicated volunteers that strive towards making this annual event like no other. Their number one goal is to create magic for all of the attendees.
After experiencing the magic of a morning spent with the horses set among this beautiful scenery, I can’t imagine how spectacular of an event the Classic has become. I look forward to attending for the first time this year!
Coffee, Croissants and Carrots at the White Barn
Everyone trying hard not to Fan-Girl.
One of the unique things I found about this year’s Classic, is that it will be occurring right after the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio. The Classic has already confirmed at least three of those Olympic riders will be joining the festivities in New Albany and hopefully bringing some medals with them!
Riders love to attend this specialty event in Ohio not only because of its prestigious reputation but also because of the philanthropic ties to the community the New Albany Classic has here in Columbus.
The New Albany Classic is not just a family event in that it hosts all kinds of unique opportunities for families to enjoy together, it also supports local Columbus families by helping to break the cycle of family violence with all proceeds from the Classic going straight to support The Center for Family Safety and Healing.
The Classic has raised over $27 Million, aiding over 1,400 children who have been physically or sexually abused. Of that abuse 3% is physical the rest fall under the sexual abuse category.
With statistics like 1 in 4 women will be abused and 1 in 3 girls are in violent relationships you sadly begin to see the need for a center like this in our community.
The Healing Center, which just received their re-accreditation, does not just cater to children and women with children. Women without children can also seek solace here as well as men and women suffering in adult relationships.
The most recent campaign, ‘Where’s the Line?’ Speaks to the bystanders of abuse. What can we do if we witness abuse? The campaign has already helped over 200 witnesses receive information on how to safely help family violence victims.
Bringing together local families and helping support local families is all part of the magic and impact that the New Albany Classic will be achieving for it’s 19th year.
Danny Boy
Equus Now was also on site and showed us everything that went into being a fashionable rider, from boot to helmet.
Truthfully, riders don’t get to take a lot of liberties when it comes to their outfits. Born from a lot of tradition, riding outfits don’t allow for many fashion statements outside of the belts and socks.
I love a good pair of riding boots.
It was so fun trying on the riding helmets. Equus Now showed us how to correctly tie our hair back, fasten a hair net, and secure the helmet.
Born to be a horse jumper! Except traditional attire isn’t exactly in my nature.
As we were leaving the crew at the White Barn bestowed us with Honey and Black Rasberry Jam. All grown and harvested, organically right there at the White Barn.
Everyone who hosted us was so kind and gracious, ensuring we had all of the information we needed, the perfect photo opportunities and fun on a Friday morning.
Thank you to Mrs. Wexner and her crew for such a delightful morning!
The New Albany Classic
September 25, 2016
10:00am – 5:00pm
Tickets | Adult $23 | Child (4-10) $7.50 – NO Tickets Sold at Gate
FREE Field Parking
Children 3 and under are FREE
All Rides, Concert, and Grand Prix included with price of admission.
Gates open at 10 | Concert 10:30 | Grand Prix 2:00 | Grand Prix Awards Ceremony 4:30
The Center for Family Safety and Healing
655 East Livingston Avenue
Columbus, Ohio 43205
#614-722-8200
