58th Del Mar National Horse Show features world-class competitors during three week run

DEL MAR Fairgrounds - The 58th Del Mar National Horse Show, renowned for its world-class competition, excitement, pageantry, and picturesque location; is one of the nation's most prestigious annual equestrian events on the West Coast, attracting thousands of North America's finest horses and riders who will compete in three distinct disciplines with more than $300,000 in prize money at stake. The show runs April 17 through May 4 in the Del Mar Arena at the Fairgrounds.

With nearly a week devoted to each of three disciplines, the Del Mar National is literally three horse shows in one. Uniquely American riding skills highlight Western Week April 17-20. Elegance reigns when Dressage moves into the spotlight April 24-27, followed by the breath-taking athleticism of Hunter/Jumper competitions, April 30-May 4.

Western Week will feature competitive classes in English pleasure, Western pleasure, speed events, and NRHA. The Challenge of the Breeds and the $500 Sliding Contest will be held on Friday, April 18 at 7 p.m.

The highlight of Western Week will feature an evening of horsemanship and elegance when Night of the Horse presents "Horses Through the Centuries," on Saturday, April 19 beginning at 7 p.m. This extravaganza will feature a regalia of horses and performers, honoring the many breeds that have been influential in shaping the equestrian world.

Dressage Week profiles the most elegant of equestrian sports. Known for its impressive blend of strength and artistry, Dressage is recognized as the "black tie and tails" event of the Horse Show.

The featured event of Dressage Week is the Musical Freestyle Show on Saturday, April 26 at 7 p.m. Several past and potential future Olympic equestrians will be competing in this evening of grace and poise.

Hunter/Jumper Week wraps up the Del Mar National Horse Show with two major events, the $25,000 Surfside Grand Prix Qualifier on Thursday, May 1, and the $75,000 HBO Grand Prix of Del Mar sponsored by Budweiser - an American Grand Prix Association event. Jumper competitors will thrill audiences with daring speed over high and wide jumps of colorful design during these exciting competitions. Both events begin at 7 p.m.

Weekday admission to the Del Mar National Horse Show is free from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the entire run of the Horse Show. Individual tickets for all of the evening and weekend competitions are now on sale through Ticketmaster by calling 619-220-TIXS (619-220-8497). Tickets may also be purchased on the Internet at www.ticketmaster.com. Box seats may be purchased through the Del Mar Fairgrounds Box Office by calling 858-792-4252.