Details Released for the Baran Global Hunter Classic Debut
Wellington, Fla. — March 19, 2025 — The Baran leadership is thrilled to unveil the format for the inaugural €300,000 Baran Global Hunter Classic—a groundbreaking event designed to elevate hunter competition to the world stage. This premier competition marks the first step toward creating a global championship format, providing an unparalleled experience for top-ranked professionals, junior and amateur hunter athletes. Our mission is to inspire, innovate, and redefine the future of hunter competition, offering competitors and enthusiasts new dreams and ambitions.
This visionary event has already garnered the support and commitment to participate from many of the industry's most influential figures. Jan Tops and his renowned events team, the Longines Tops International Arena, top equestrian commentators, leading North American event organizers and esteemed judges have signed on to participate. We are collaborating with marketing and production experts from other major sports to ensure an unforgettable experience. Additionally, the competition will showcase elite riders from both the hunter and jumper disciplines, bringing together the best talent from around the world.
With that, we are excited to present the competition and participation package—your gateway to being part of this historic event.
Luxury VIP at the Longines Tops International Arena
RIDER ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Professional Hunter Rider and Team Captain
Top three riders from the 2024 USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship results
Five additional riders based on the USHJA World Champion Hunter Rider (WCHR) year-end standing for 2023 and 2024 combined
Should the top five riders elect not to attend, the five spots will be filled by moving down the combined 2023 & 2024 WCHR list.
Two wildcard spots are available.
Junior or Amateur
Each team captain selects a junior or an amateur rider.
The junior or amateur must meet one of the following certificate of capability:
Have been champion or reserve champion at a USHJA WCHR event in a 3’6” division between Jan. 1, 2024, and April 1, 2025.
Have completed a USHJA WCHR International Hunter Derby.
International Jumper Athlete
Each team captain selects the international jumper rider.
The team captain must provide a horse for the selected FEI rider to compete.
The international jumper rider must meet one of the following criteria:
Ranked in the Top 50 of the Longines World Ranking List as of April 1, 2025.
Have represented their country at the Olympic Games, World Equestrian Games, World Cup Finals or an FEI Regional Championship.