February 23, 2016–On the heels of making their largest gift ever – $500,000 to Bryn Mawr Hospital – The Devon Horse Show and Country Fair Foundation Board of Directors are investing $1 million into the show grounds before the 2016 Show scheduled for May 26 – June 5, 2016. Celebrating its 120th anniversary this year, The Devon Horse Show and Country Fair will enhance the experience for attendees and competitors through a variety of renovations and new construction.
The most dramatic addition will be an entirely new, two-story building located on Dorset Road, making it the centerpiece of the show grounds. The first floor will house the emergency medical services facility sponsored by Bryn Mawr Hospital as well as the Horse Show Entries, management, public relations and ticketing offices for its staff members. The building will also include a first-class entertainment venue with specular orbital views of both the Dixon Oval and the Gold Ring.
Devon Horse Show and Country Fair Chairman Wayne W. Grafton commented, “The tradition not only continues at Devon but improvements are being made with major enhancements to our grounds.” “We are focused on making this a wonderful venue for competitors and attendees for many years to come.”
Other changes in the works include additional space behind the East Grandstands for vendor rentals. Significant improvements to the footings, as well as laser leveling in all three rings will result in an improved experience for competitors.
A ‘Silver to Gold’ theme will define the 120th anniversary, painting the way for a new Anniversary Square, nestled outside Clydesdale’s Corner. Guests will be welcomed to gather on a grand, brick patio that provides a front-row panorama of the Schooling Ring. The sale of commemorative bricks for Anniversary Square will provide guests the opportunity to be indelibly linked to the Devon Horse Show.
“Construction is soon to begin on Anniversary Square and bricks can still be purchased,” noted Devon Horse Show and Country Fair Chair of the Development Committee Karin Maynard. “We invite the community to join in and add a brick with their name, for it will perpetually be marked on the Devon Horse Show.”
In addition, more than 220 of the permanent barn stalls have been reconditioned to ensure the safety of the horses and their riders during the event. This project will be supported through the purchase of personalized horseshoes by exhibitors as well as direct donations.
Devon Horse Show and Country Fair President Richard O’Donnell said, “We are very excited about the new improvements to our barns, which will provide a safer environment for competitors and their horses. ”
For more information or to purchase tickets to the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair, please visit www.devonhorseshow.org.
About Devon Horse Show and Country Fair
Started in 1896, the Devon Horse Show is the oldest and largest outdoor multi-breed competition in the United States and draws in top competitors from around the world. With the grandeur of Philadelphia’s historic Main Line as its backdrop, the show continues to reflect the local traditions and lifestyles of the community. The Devon Country Fair, run by more than 2,000 volunteers, offers a variety of boutique shops in miniature cottages, amusement rides and games for kids, multiple dining options, and special entertainment events. Proceeds support Bryn Mawr Hospital.
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