An already spectacular day in Saugerties, New York, got just that much more impressive with the announcement that the West Point Cadet Equestrian Team will kick off the dazzling opening ceremonies on Sunday, September 12th, prior to the start of the richest show jumping event in the world, the Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix at the HITS facility in Saugerties.   

Just a short drive south of HITS is the United States Military Academy at West Point, a site steeped with tradition. Besides the rigorous training of our future officers and leaders, West Point is also home to the Cadet Equestrian Team.

The West Point cadets are excited about their participation in the Pfizer Million, according to Sherry Cashman, who, along with husband Peter, coaches the team. “The cadets could not contain their excitement when I told them that we were going to attend the Pfizer Million. They are honored to participate in the opening ceremonies and they’re thrilled with the opportunity to watch such amazing talent,” she said.

Some of the Army team members will be handling color guard duties, while the team’s own Naomi Fuhrman, class of 2013, will be singing the National Anthem. “It is going to be a beautiful start to a spectacular day,” said Cashman.

“We are honored to have the West Point Cadet Equestrian Team be our guests for the Pfizer Million,” said Tom Struzzieri, HITS President and CEO. “Their participation in the opening ceremonies for the Pfizer Million will be the perfect kick-off to this historic class and everyone at HITS is looking forward to their performance.”  

“The love of the horse is what brings them to try out for the team, whether they are seasoned riders, or looking for a new challenge,” Cashman said. “The cadets compete in the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) The IHSA has continued to grow since its inauguration in 1967 to over 370 schools participating country wide and over 8000 riding members.”

Mr. Bob Cacchione, IHSA founder and executive director will also make the trip to Saugerties for the Pfizer Million. “It is always a great pleasure to attend this type of event where I can see both former riders and potential new members of the IHSA,” he said.

“And, the fact that some of the riders in the Pfizer Million at one time rode in the IHSA is just as thrilling for the cadets,” Cashman added.

Those attending the Pfizer Million are in for a full day of activities, highlighted by an all star roster of the greatest show jumpers in North America, competing for the richest purse ever offered in the Pfizer Million.

Following the event, legendary rock star John Fogerty brings all of his classic hits to the stage just adjacent to the Strongid® C 2X Grand Prix Stadium.

The day in Saugerties should prove to be a great family outing with plenty of activities that will thrill the children.  Kid’s Day Activities include face painting, bouncy houses, a fun horseless horse show, numerous arts & crafts tables, plus a clown who will delight the youngsters while making balloon animals and doing magic tricks. All of that happens between the hours of 12-4 pm in the Grand Prix Schooling ring.

Prior to the start of the Pfizer Million, riders Melissa Taylor and Lars Petersen will present a majestic dressage exhibition sponsored by Arenus, at 1 pm in the Strongid® C 2X Grand Prix Stadium. Opening Ceremonies follow, lead by the West Point Cadets at 1:15 p.m.

Show jumping in the Pfizer Million begins promptly at 1:30 pm.

Following the presentation of the awards, and the SmartPak Parade of Champions in the Strongid® C 2X Grand Prix Stadium, fans of show jumping will be delighted to know that they will have a chance to get up close and personal with their favorite ridings stars with a special autograph session following the event.

There will be plenty to see and do prior to the start of the much anticipated John Fogerty concert, including the fabulous World of the Horse Exhibition which follows the SmartPak Parade of Champions, and then the Exclusive® Dog Agility Exhibition.

Just preceding the start of the concert, the FAMILY Big Money Raffle Drawing takes place.

The day will conclude with the John Fogerty Concert, scheduled for a 5 pm start in the Main Hunter Arena.

General admission tickets are on sale now and available through Ticketmaster as well as the HITS Corporate Office box offices.

More information regarding the Pfizer Million and the John Fogerty concert can be found at www.HitsShows.com.

For more information and a complete schedule of classes and events at HITS Saugerties, visit www.HitsShows.com.

Media should contact the HITS Media Team at 845.246.8833 or e-mail Media_Info@HitsShows.com.