Old Salem Farm Hosts Renowned Horse Show Until Sept. 15

The renowned equestrian event – the American Gold Cup – has come to Northern Westchester for the second year in a row. It is being held at Old Salem Farm in North Salem until Sunday.

The annual horse show, held from Sept. 11 to Sept. 15 is attracting some of the world's best horse jumpers including two-time Olympic Gold Medalist McLain Ward, who was born in Mt. Kisco but grew up in North Salem. 

The iconic equestrian events are expected to draw 10,000 visitors, 600 horses and bring $6 million in revenue to the local economy, County Executive Rob Astorino said earlier this year.

The American Gold Cup, which will be broadcast by NBC, is scheduled to take place from Sept. 11 to Sept. 15. The competition, with a grand prix price of $200,000, serves as a qualifier for the World Cup finals.

"It's a true honor for the stable and for the owners, the Hakim family, to have the American Gold Cup here," Old Salem Farm's head trainer and American Gold Cup organizer Frank Madden said.

In 2012, the North American Riders Group voted both Old Salem Farm and the American Gold Cup as among the "Top 25" equestrian shows in North America. The farm’s recently underwent a $30 million renovation. 

The American Gold Cup has selected the ASPCA and JustWorld International, which helps to provide basic education, nutrition, health, hygiene and vocational programs for children all over the globe, as this year’s charitable partners.

"Many people don't know we were founded to protect horses," said Valerie Angeli, senior director of equine and special projects for the ASPCA, which was founded in 1866.

Besides Ward, Beezie Madden is another horse jumper to watch at the American Gold Cup. She has won the American Gold Cup twice and is the current World Cup Champion, according to reports. 

In the past, other star and celebrity competitors at Old Salem have included Georgina Bloomberg, daughter of New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg.

The American Gold Cup will be broadcast on NBC Sports Network on Sept. 22 at 4:30 p.m.