Spectator Information

Central Oregon’s Premier Equestrian and Social Event
Held during the last two weeks of July, the Oregon High Desert Classics feature two consecutive weeks of competition, running Wednesday through Sunday.  Each Classic draws professional and amateur competitors from all over the west and Canada and closes on Sunday with the Grand Prix competition, where the top horses and riders compete for purses up to $25,000.  Since its inception in 1990, this annual fundraiser has become a premier event for both riders and spectators.  Competitors enjoy a USA Equestrian A-Rated show on superb grass footing, while spectators enjoy the athletic skill of the horses and riders and a variety of food and shopping at vendor booths.

A Thrilling Spectator Sport
The competition is held at the J Bar J Boys Ranch on 40 acres east of Bend in the beautiful Central Oregon high desert at the base of the Cascade Mountains.  Spectators can view the action from the grandstand bleachers or the ringside Patron’s Tent while enjoying gourmet food and beverages.

Everybody Wins
Although the ribbons, trophies and prize money go to the competitors, the entire Central Oregon community benefits from the Oregon High Desert Classics.  A Chamber of Commerce study estimated that the horse show brings approximately $2.4 million in revenue to the area, with around 2000 riders, owners, trainers and grooms visiting Bend for two weeks every July.  J Bar J Youth Services benefits from the profits made at the show, which enable them to provide much-needed services and supplies for the various youth and family programs.  The youth in the programs benefit, as they get to help out with the set-up, operating and tear-down of the shows doing a variety of jobs from mowing and  irrigation to parking and catering.

Partners in Success
The Oregon High Desert Classics is very grateful to the public and business community for its support over the years.  There are numerous ways to be a part of this very special annual event.  Levels of sponsorship range from Title Sponsor to Friend of the Classics and can be secured by a cash donation or an In-Kind donation of goods or services.

A Helping Hand
Volunteers are a vital ingredient to putting on the Oregon High Desert Classics, and duties include office help, being a hostess for Sunday Brunch in the Patron’s Tent, awarding ribbons and prizes and those with EMT training are needed as Medics.  We welcome the support of people not only interested in equestrian competition but also the advancement of area youth.