A new $25,000 Thoroughbred Hunter Derby will debut at the Upperville Colt & Horse Show in Virginia on June 2, replacing the previous Upperville Thoroughbred Hunter Classic. This event reflects a broader industry effort to enhance opportunities and visibility for Thoroughbreds in hunter and jumper competitions. The initiative is supported by organizations like TAKE2 and advocates such as Carrie Brogden, Ron Danta, and Sue Lyman, who have worked to promote Thoroughbred-only divisions and revive the USHJA Thoroughbred Taskforce. The success of horses like Catherine Brown’s Ifwhizkycouldtalk has helped demonstrate Thoroughbreds’ competitiveness against warmbloods, further fueling interest.

The Derby’s creation was driven by collaboration among trainers, advocates, and supporters, including longtime Thoroughbred enthusiasts like Ann Hormel and Jacqueline Mars, who helped secure funding to raise the prize money to $25,000. The event aims to attract top-level participation and highlight Thoroughbreds’ potential beyond racing, offering a prestigious platform that honors tradition while expanding new opportunities for the breed in the hunter and jumper world. Upperville’s commitment to this initiative underscores its role in promoting Thoroughbred horses, owners, and riders within the sport.