Thermal, CA (February 3, 2015): The spotlight will be on the world’s top riders as they compete for international fame and a $100,000 prize purse in the Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Thermal competition at HITS Desert Horse Park in Thermal, California. The event will take place on Saturday, February, 13 at 3:00 pm with a plethora of excitement in store.

Spectators will witness the top riders and horses from around the globe contend for a shot to compete at the Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Final to be held in Gothenburg, Sweden, on March 23-28. This day of family-friendly fun is open to the public, and will host U.S. and international equestrian athletes as they prepare not only for the Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Final, but for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Riders to watch include Olympian Will Simpson, World Cup Champion Rich Fellers, and Hap Hanson, winner of over 100 Grand Prix, among others.

“We have invited spectators from local groups, pony clubs and organizations to attend this prestigious event free of charge to experience horse sport history, right here in the Coachella Valley,” said HITS President and CEO Tom Struzzieri. “These groups will be HITS guests for the afternoon, and will be treated to a special meet and greet with the riders and a complimentary dinner in the VIP club.”

The Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Thermal competition is open to the public. General admission tickets may be purchased at the gate on February 13 for $10, children 12 and under are free.

The Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Thermal competition is at 3:00 pm.  Come early and enjoy a full day’s schedule of jumping events in the Park’s 12 competition rings, browse the many vendor booths and enjoy the Park’s on-site food options.