Gulf Coast Winter Classics return to the Harrison County Fairgrounds

The Gulf Coast’s premier equestrian event has returned after being cut short due to COVID-19 last year.

South New Jersey resident Audrey Winzinger has participated in the Gulf Coast Winter Classics for 22 years now and she says it’s especially good to be back in 2021. “It’s the best place for us because there’s plenty of places to ride, and frankly we just like it here.”

Winzinger and her crew from Tustin Farm have 12 horses competing in the annual event which looks a little different this year compared to year’s past.

One major change to the Classics this year is that no spectators are allowed due to COVID-19 guidelines. “We’re very happy to be active and here and everybody has been really on top of things here.”

From jumping to hunter to grand prix events, officials estimate nearly 600 horses will compete in this weeks long competitions. Harrison County Supervisor Rebecca Powers said, “You see New Jersey, Maryland, New York, Kentucky. They come from all over, and every person one after the other tells me, this place is amazing, this is national quality.”

Powers say the continued presence of the Winter Classics provides a big boost to the local economy year in and year out. “Not only from the guy down the road that sells feed, but to the bicycle shop on 49 and of course all of the restaurants. We have people that come in for six to eight weeks, bringing these million-dollar RV’s that need to pump gas, feed their animals.”

But for Tustin Farms, the main goal right now is to add to their collection of wins and ribbons. “The kids are working at it, so everybody’s trying hard, and it’s been going well.”