The All-American Horse Classic will be held at the Pepsi Coliseum beginning Wednesday morning, September 8, and continuing through Saturday September 11. This annual event, regarded as Indiana’s premier horse show, will feature over 750 beautiful American Saddlebred horses and Hackney Ponies competing for over $700,000 in national championships. Tuesday evening at 6:30 pm kicks off the excitement with the All-American Cup Competition.. Up to 80 of the nation’s top American Saddlebred babies compete for a record purse of over $185,000 for the coveted All American Cup. A live orchestra adds a special touch to this one of a kind evening. Wednesday morning begins the traditional horse show, with classes featuring both adult and juvenile riders. The sessions continue each morning and each evening. Friday evening and all day Saturday will focus on championship events and national titles. The spotlight will shine on young riders Saturday in the National Pleasure Equitation Championships, featuring riders 17 years old and under from around the country. The All American Horse Classic will conclude Saturday evening with the prestigious $130,000 Saddlebred National Sweepstakes, Amateur & Open Championships and Carriage Driving, Morning sessions begin at 11am each day (Saturday September 11 begins at 11:30am). Evening sessions begin at 6:30 pm Thursday and Friday, 7pm Wednesday and Saturday. Free general admission for all sessions, with ample parking at the fairgrounds. A wonderful event for all ages. Be sure to attend the St Francis Children’s Festival…Saturday Morning, September 11 at 9am Located in the West Pavilion, children of all ages are welcome Decorate your own stick horse to take home, visit mini horses, and enjoy fun crafts and activities for all ages. FREE! The All American Horse Classic benefits Strides to Success Inc., a non-profit organization that utilizes horses to meet educational goals while restoring hope, health, and happiness to at-risk children. Based in Plainfield, IN, Strides to Success teaches students that achievements with horses create confidence and provide successful learning opportunities when dealing with other intimidating and challenging life situations.