A New Era for Hunter Sport: The Baran Global Hunter Classic at Longines Tops International Arena

A new chapter is about to unfold in the world of hunter competition. This July, the Baran Global Hunter Classic will make its grand debut at the Longines Tops International Arena within the Summer Classic Event, bringing a fresh vision to one of equestrian sport’s most elegant and time-honored disciplines. 

From 11 to 13 July 2025, this landmark event, featured within Summer Festival 1, The Summer Classic, will elevate hunter competition to unprecedented heights, introducing a global audience to the beauty, precision, and prestige of the sport.

For decades, the hunter discipline has been revered for its emphasis on style, rhythm, and harmony between horse and rider. Unlike show jumping, where speed and clear rounds determine success, hunter competition celebrates fluidity, technique, and a seamless partnership. Now, with the launch of the Baran Global Hunter Classic, this refined discipline is stepping onto the world stage in a way never seen before.

At the heart of this historic moment are Kristen Baran and Andrew Lustig, the visionaries behind the event. Co-founders of the Baran Global Hunter Classic, they have worked tirelessly to create a competition that not only honors tradition but also drives the sport forward. Hosted at the Longines Tops International Arena under the guidance of Jan Tops, this event is more than a showcase - it’s a movement shaping the future of hunter sport.

What sets the Baran Global Hunter Classic apart is its unique competition format. Ten teams, each comprising a professional rider, an amateur or junior athlete, and an elite 5 show jumping rider, will compete in a dynamic display of skill and collaboration. This structure fosters mentorship, bridges generations, and pushes the boundaries of the sport. With €300,000 in prize money at stake, the stakes are high, and the competition promises to be nothing short of spectacular.

Beyond the arena, the impact of the Baran Global Hunter Classic is far-reaching. As the event makes its debut in Europe, it signals a new era for the hunter discipline, expanding its reach beyond its North American roots. By aligning with the esteemed Longines Tops International Arena, the event brings global visibility to hunter sport, introducing new audiences to its grace and technical brilliance.

“More than just a competition, this initiative is designed with the goal to support and grow the North American hunter industry by providing global exposure for its riders, owners, and horses,” says Kristen Baran.

This inaugural edition is only the beginning. With a long-term vision to establish hunter sport on a global scale, the Baran Global Hunter Classic is setting the foundation for a future where elegance and excellence define a new standard for the discipline.

Now, the countdown begins. From 11 to 13 July 2025, during the Summer Classic, the Longines Tops International Arena will be the epicenter of hunter sport’s evolution.

Secure your tickets now and be part of history as the Baran Global Hunter Classic ushers in a bold new era.

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