The hunter sport community is on the verge of a groundbreaking event that promises to transform the discipline on a global scale. From July 11 to 13, 2025, the Baran Global Hunter Classic will make its much-anticipated debut in Europe, hosted at the prestigious Longines Tops International Arena. This exciting new chapter is part of the Summer Festival I: The Summer Classic, an event poised to reshape the future of hunter competition.
This debut is not just another competition; it marks the start of an era where the elegance of hunter sports will meet innovative approaches. The Baran Global Hunter Classic intends to take this tradition-rich sport to new heights, blending the old with the new to create an unforgettable experience. With its roots deeply embedded in precision, style, and grace, the competition promises to highlight the timeless beauty of the hunter discipline while giving it a fresh, global appeal.
At the forefront of this ambitious initiative are Kristen Baran and Andrew Lustig, the passionate co-founders of the Baran Global Hunter Classic. Their goal is clear: to elevate hunter sport while preserving its sophisticated essence. They aim to ignite global interest in the discipline and offer a platform that showcases its inherent elegance, setting the stage for international growth.
One of the most exciting aspects of the Baran Global Hunter Classic is its innovative team-based competition format, a creative departure from the traditional individual performance style. In this unique setup, ten teams will compete, each consisting of a professional rider, an amateur or junior, and an elite CSI5* show jumping rider. This team-oriented approach will foster collaboration, mentorship, and skill-building, offering a dynamic twist to the usual format. With a remarkable €300,000 in prize money up for grabs, the stakes are higher than ever, and the competition is expected to be intense.
This new format is not just about showcasing athleticism; it’s about encouraging cross-disciplinary collaboration and bridging generational gaps. By bringing together experienced professionals and up-and-coming riders, the Baran Global Hunter Classic will create an environment of mutual learning and growth, raising the standards of excellence in the hunter world.
While hunter sports have traditionally flourished in North America, this event is set to introduce the discipline to a broader, European audience. With the iconic Longines Tops International Arena providing a stunning backdrop, the competition offers a prime opportunity for exposure, connection, and celebration of hunter sport on a global stage. Kristen Baran notes that this initiative is about more than just competition; it’s about expanding the global reach of North American hunter sports, providing international visibility for its talented riders, owners, and horses.
As the Baran Global Hunter Classic prepares to take center stage, it is poised to become a pivotal moment in the evolution of hunter competition, bringing together tradition, innovation, and the international equestrian community like never before.
