hits championship program: 2014
DESCRIPTION
Join us and preview all the fun~Experience three events for the price of one! (plus a special appearance by Smithsonian exhibition Animal Connections making a stop on HITS Showgrounds) Special Program for HITS Championship weekend includes: Schedule of Events Map of Show Grounds HITS Makes History Again... Employing 3-D in Zoetis Million HITS Harvest Food Fest ~sample terrific foods! Spotlight on Family of Woodstock, Zoetis Million Jump Design Inspiration Carleigh Babbit: Not Your Every Day HITS Champion Riders to Watch Animal Connections Comes to HITS Saugerties Charlie Daniels: Five Things You Didn’t KnowTRANSCRIPT
Saugerties
HITS-on-the-Hudson454 Washington Ave Ext, Saugerties, NY | [email protected] | HitsShows.com | 845.246.8833 | 845.246.5515 Day of Event
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Official Event Program
SHOW JUMPINGu FEATURING THE u Richest Event in
Sunday, September 7, 2014 u Saugerties, NY
FAMILYC
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nHITS Harvest Food Fest
$1 Million Grand Prix
Charlie Daniels Band
LIVE in Concert
HITS CHAMPIONSHIP 2014
Schedule of Events
HITS Saugerties
8 am Gates open & Diamond Mills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final
10 am New York Equitation Classic
11 am HITS Harvest Food Fest opens & Bayer’s Legend® $250,000 High Jr/A-O Jumper Prix
1:30 pm Horseware Ireland Parade of Champions
2 pm Zoetis $1 Million Grand Prix
4:30 pm Concert seating opens for Charlie Daniels Band
4:45 pm FAMILYBig$$$raffle
5 pm Charlie Daniels Band concert
2 | HITS Championship 2014 | Official Event Program
1 Ticket, 3 Incredible Events
General Admission: $15 in advance and $25 at the gate. Children 12 and under free with a paid adult ticket. Ticket price includes admission to all HITS Championship Sunday events including Harvest Food Fest, Charlie Daniels Band live in concert and the Zoetis $1 Million Grand Prix.
Day VIP Pass: VIP Pass includes ringside dinner with beer and wine. $100 per person. Must be purchased in advanced at the HITS Box Office.
Tickets available through:
Bardavon Box Office35 Market St, Poughkeepsie845.473.2072
HITS Box Office 319 Main St, Saugerties845.246.8833
TicketmasterTicketmaster.com800.745.3000
UPAC Box Office601 Broadway, Kingston845.339.6088
Zoetis Animal Connections Exhibit
*
Visit HITS-on-the-Hudson Sunday, September 7 for Three Exciting Events!
Table of Contents
2 Schedule of Events
& Map of Show Grounds
3 HITS Makes History Again,
Employing 3-D in Zoetis Million
4 HITS Harvest Food Fest
Vendor Preview
5 For the Love of Family
Spotlight on Family of Woodstock,
the Official Charity of HITS-on-the-Hudson
6 Jump Design Inspiration
Key to the Inspirations for this Year’s
Zoetis Million Jumps
8 Carleigh Babbit:
Not Your Every Day HITS Champion
9 Who’s in the Hot Seat
Riders to Watch at the
Zoetis $1 Million Grand Prix
10 Animal Connections
Exhibition Sweeping the Nation Comes
to HITS Saugerties
11 Charlie Daniels:
Five Things You Didn’t Know
CHAMPIONSHIP2014 | SAUGERTIES, NY
HITS, Inc, a company known for world class Equestrian competitions, growing Endurance division, innovative leadership and positive impact on local economies, has done it again: Led by the vision of CEO Thomas Struzzieri, the organization announced 3-D printing will make an appearance in the Zoetis $1 Million Grand Prix September 7, 2014. HITS and longtime sponsor Zoetis – dedicated to animal health and veterinary scholarship, partnered with the Hudson Valley Advanced Manufacturing Center at SUNY New Paltz.
Zoetis Million jump designers worked with SUNY New Paltz’s Dean of Science and Engineering Department Daniel Freedman, who is also the Advanced Manufacturing Center’s Director, and Kat Wilson, Assistant Director.
Together they created a jump in full 3-D, inspired by the Zoetis product Dormosedan Gel – the leading non-narcotic sedation used safely for horses in surgical and diagnostic procedures. First they measured the actual dimensions of the Product’s (Dormosedan) syringe. Using a computer-aided graphics program (CAD), Wilson modeled the jump’s appearance (Designed by HITS), to reflect the product’s.
Instead of paper, 3-D printing machines are loaded with solid material – “spaghetti-sized plastic filaments, metal or ceramic powder,” Freedman explained. The material is extruded from the device, “Building an object one layer at a time.” In this case, the material will be ABS (same as Legos). Afterwards, it will be scaled to 12 ft in length and a three-dimensional, full size model of the jump will be produced.
Spectators will witness the merging of an unforgettable sports’ event with ground-breaking
advancements in design and science. “As we begin to see this technology coming into its own and used to solve health and business problems – it’s a perfect moment to bring the two together [3-D Design and Zoetis] for this event,” said Struzzieri. While 3-D technology has been around since the 1980s, the number of 3-D printers increased dramatically in recent years – and now making headlines daily: . Saving babies’ lives via the speedy manufacturing of medical devices. . Surgeons frustrated by boy’s inoperable tumor tackle the operation 3-D style.. BMW uses 3-D printing to physically strengthen its car-plant workers – and produce car parts.. Lose your keys a lot? Belgian insurance company’s 3-D service lets customers scan and save them on a server. Applications include architecture, construction, design, automotive, military, engineering, medical, biotech, fashion, education, food – the list is endless. 3-D printing is considered a “green” technology because manufacturing products closer to consumers reduces the carbon footprint and
energy expenditure. Products are created quickly, precisely and often at a fraction of the cost. Price of the prosthetic hand New Paltz’s 3-D Printing Center created for a six year old boy? $20. Twenty-dollars. For some it’s an art, others a life-saving innovation. But all agree 3-D printing is poised to transform the world we live in. HITS partners with sponsors, such as Zoetis, who leverage technology to make their brands useful and meaningful in consumers’ lives. “Taking advantage of 3-D printing and the potential of intelligent machines exemplifies our company’s values,” Struzzieri added. “Showcasing the best equestrian competition, Zoetis’ products and SUNY’s 3-D Initiative at HITS’ Championship is an opportunity to link with students, community businesses and animal lovers everywhere.”
During HITS Championship SUNY New Paltz’s Advanced Manufacturing Center will feature an interactive 3-D exhibit open to the public. There will be models, videos and experts to answer your questions on 3-D printing – how it could affect or help you in the future, too. See it!
HITS Makes History Again, Employing 3-D in Zoetis Million
Official Event Program | HITS Championship 2014 | 3
Taste your way through the region’s top culinary purveyors at the first-annual HITS Harvest Food Fest. Each food vendor will be serving up free tastings and selling snacks for your enjoyment all day long. From fresh salsa to BBQ Sliders to ar-tisan ice cream, the HITS Harvest Food Fest has something for every appetite.
A sampling of featured vendors...
Deising’s Bakery | Kingston
Deisings.comFamily owned and operated, Deising’s is a European style bakery, café and catering company with two convenient locations – Uptown Kingston and Midtown Kingston.
Karen’s Country Kitchen | Saugerties
KarensCountryKitchenNY.comA cute little food concession serving up freshly made comfort foods including sweet or savory waffles, baked goods, grilled sandwiches, snacks and more.
Main Street Restaurant | Saugerties
MainStRestaurant12477.comMain Street Restaurant’s casual and family friendly atmosphere makes it the perfect place to enjoy daily or for a special occasion. Serving American, Mexican and Vegetarian dishes, Main Street is open daily for Lunch and Dinner.
Mother Earth’s Storehouse | Kingston,
Saugerties, Poughkeepsie
MotherEarthStorehouse.comMother Earth provides a grand selection of high quality organic and natural products, as well as an attentive, knowledgeable customer service team.
Santa Fe Uptown | Kingston
SantaFeKingston.comInspired by the rich culinary flavors of Mexico, Santa Fe offers a menu of vibrant flavors while highlighting the freshness of the ingredients in those dishes.
Smokin’ Pony BBQ | Saugerties
SmokinPonyBBQ.comFrom the masterminds behind Stone Pony Deli, the Smokin’ Pony specializes in all things barbecue. Complete with friendly service and top quality products meats, let the Smokin’ Pony cater your next pig roast, BBQ, birthday party or wedding!
Spacey Tracy’s | Rhinebeck
SpaceyTracys.comKnown for Deep Fried Pickles, pickled products and farm-to-table fare, Spacey Tracy’s offers a dedication to freshness using only the finest local ingredients from local farms.
...and more!
HITS Harvest Food Fest Vendor Preview
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HITS Harvest Food FestDon’t miss the Hudson
Valley’s hottest new
foodie event!
WHEN: Sunday, September 7 | 11 am - 5 pm
WHERE:
HITS-on-the-Hudson in Saugerties, NY
HOW MUCH:
$15 in advance; $25 at the Gate. Ticket
includes entry to food fest, Zoetis $1
Million Grand Prix and Charlie Daniels
Band LIVE in concert.
MORE INFO:
Visit HitsShows.com or call HITS Box
Office at 845.246.8833.
4 | HITS Championship 2014 | Official Event Program
Built on the foundation of helping others, Family of Woodstock has served Ulster County and beyond since its inception in 1969. After the infamous namesake music festival delivered an influx of youth to the sleepy town – all in search of the mythical Woodstock Nation – police quickly became overwhelmed by the trespassing and skinny-dipping arrests.
As a result, Family of Woodstock founding member Gail Varsi offered her phone number for any problem that occurred. 46 years later, volunteers and paid staff have answered Gail’s line, and nine others, 24-hours a day, every day.
Providing support in the areas of homelessness, domestic violence, emergency services, child care resource and referral services, and adolescent programs, Family is committed to maintaining a judgment free ethos – and not telling people what to do. Instead they listen and review support options, encouraging the distressed to make the choice that best works for them.
The agency also spearheads local efforts to expand strength-based and prevention programs that grow healthier individuals and communities, actively participating in Community Collaborative in Kingston, Woodstock, New Paltz and Ellenville. Additionally, Family is contributing to the creation of affordable housing, forging a food chain directly from local farmers to the county’s food pantries and feeding programs, and providing reentry support for those returning to the county from incarceration. The goal of Family’s programs is to assist people to achieve self-sufficiency and self-respect.
Family is the official charity of HITS-on-the-Hudson and often seen volunteering at various events at the Saugerties show grounds. As a piece of that partnership, they will be selling their
annual Big $$$ Raffle Tickets as free admission to the HITS Harvest Food Festival, Zoetis $1 Million Grand Prix and Charlie Daniels Band live in concert. Tickets are $50 and include a chance to win $20,000. The Big $$$ Raffle winner will be announced at 4:45 pm prior to the concert.
For more information on the Big $$$ Raffle,email [email protected] or call845.331.7080.
For the Love of Family Spotlight on Family of Woodstock, the Official Charity of HITS-on-the-Hudson
FAMILY
Upcoming Community Events:
Hudson Valley Harvest Festival
September 20-21 | Ulster County Fairgrounds
HudsonValleyHarvestFestival.com
New Paltz 5K Turkey Trot
November 27 | Water Street Market
Call to register: 845.255.7957
It Takes a Village Holiday
Donation Campaign
Fall 2014 | FamilyOfWoodstockInc.org
Pet Support Program
Fall 2014 | WashbourneHouse.com
For more information, call 845.331.7080
or visit FamilyOfWoodstockInc.org.
Official Event Program | HITS Championship 2014 | 5
FAMILY volunteers lend a hand at the annual Purina Animal Nutrition Kids’ Day at HITS Saugerties. Photo by HITS Staff
Just a few of FAMILY’s many dedicated volunteers.
Photo by HITS Staff
Jump Design Inspiration Key to the Inspirations for this Year’s Zoetis Million Jumps
Dormosedan Gel® (detomidine hydrochloride) 3-D
Inspired by the Zoetis product and leading safe
equine sedative, DORMOSEDAN GEL. To read
the full story on how this remarkable 3-D jump
was created, the first of its kind ever used at an
equestrian competition, please see page 1.
Chess Set
A stately masterpiece. To be a winning chess player one must spend much time on tactics – and the same can be said of great riders, who must spend countless hours in the saddle. The Zoetis Million course is extremely technical, requiring forethought and strategy. It’s a world-class, though much faster, “game” of intelligence and risk indeed.
Diamond Mills Hotel & Tavern
Like a rare gem, Diamond Mills Hotel & Tavern is
the choice in Hudson Valley luxury. Be it a weekend
getaway, lavish wedding ceremony and reception
or dinner with friends overlooking the Esopus
Falls – there is no comparison in quality, service,
experience and of course, beauty.
Fluvac Innovator®
& Pneumabort-K® +1b
The inspiration behind this combination is a
double serving of preventative equine health.
PNEUMABORT-K +1b is the only equine
vaccine labeled to help prevent respiratory
disease caused by equine herpes virus (EHV),
while FLUVAC INNOVATOR vaccines deliver
demonstrated protection against common
viruses and tetanus.
Care & Beyond
Inspired by the Zoetis Commitment to Veterinarians. It’s a symbol of the Zoetis promise and platform to help address the challenges facing veterinarians everywhere. This commitment is a pledge to stand by practicing and student veterinarians to ensure their long-term growth and success.
6 | HITS Championship 2014 | Official Event Program
Strongid® C 2X™ (pyrantel tartrate)
Inspired by the strength, longevity and quality of solid oak barrels, the STRONGID C 2X oxer pays tribute to the leading equine parasite prevention product. Empowering owners through a daily feeding approach STRONGID C 2X is the daily choice for long-lasting results.
Music Notes
Whether you prefer country or classical, watch big money hopefuls hit the high notes over this challenging obstacle! Zebra
From Zebras to Clydesdales, equines are elegant, regal and fascinating. Watch as Zoetis Million jumpers fly over this – their cousin from the Safari. Due to their robust personalities and stubborn tendencies, you won’t see Zebras in the show ring anytime soon. They prefer to keep all four feet on the ground.
Solitude® IGR
Are you swatting? Thanks to effective, safe, simple and economical feed-through fly prevention, you don’t have to. SOLITUDE IGR stops the problem before it can start, regulating house and stable fly egg development with just a ½ oz. in a horse’s daily feed regardless of breed or size.
Quest® Plus (moxidectin/praziquantel)
QUEST PLUS is the only FDA-approved single-dose dewormer that offers safe, effective protection against all tough parasites. Plus comes in a palatable, rapidly dissolving gel – not a paste that ends up on the ground, you, and your horse’s face! Look for two Quest-inspired jumps in this course.
Rubik’s Cube
The Big 80s comes to the HITS Championship as we pay homage to the iconic Rubik’s Cube.
Official Event Program | HITS Championship 2014 | 7
Deaf nine-year old is winning ribbons — dreaming big.
Carleigh Babbit, nine, meticulous and perfect in pink bows, guided her white pony Be My Valentine to Beginner Equitation Champion at HITS Saugerties this summer. To any spectator outside the ring, she appeared to be one of many smiling girls winning ribbons and dreaming of beating Olympic Medalists. Nothing appears to be holding Babbit back from chasing those goals. Not even that she is deaf. When Jai Smith-Rezac, owner of Century Mill Stables, was approached about giving lessons to a deaf girl five years ago, she never thought she would find herself coaching that same girl at an “A”-rated HITS show. “Some kids are born to ride and some have to work at it – Carleigh was born to ride,” said Smith-Rezac, “Though she is also tough anddetermined. Not only is it good for her to be riding, it’s an accomplishment.” With safe horses, engaged coaches and involved parents, it seems there’s nothing Carleigh can’t do.
Babbit was born deaf and without a balance nerve on either side of her body. When her older sister Kacie began riding lessons at Century Mill, her doctors recommended Martha and Robert Babbit use horses as a form of therapy for their daughter. “We saw immediate results in her core strength from a few leadline lessons,” said Martha. “After her first class we knew this is what she was meant to do.”
While success in the show ring appears to come naturally to Carleigh, Smith-Rezac and her team of trainers admit they carefully considered how they would teach Babbit the basics without speaking to her. “It’s all about visual communication,” said Smith-Rezac. “She has developed a sense of awareness far beyond her years.” Fellow Century Mill Stables trainer Liz Kleinfeld is Babbit’s primary coach at home and took it upon herself to learn sign language. “Carleigh was accepted into the barn without hesitation,” said Smith-Rezac. “Kids, coaches and parents have all taken up an interest in signing – they want to be able to communicate with Carleigh.” While most would consider Carleigh’s inability to hear a hindrance to her riding, Martha Babbit maintains that it may actually serve to help her daughter. “Because she can’t hear things that are scary, she doesn’t react. And because she doesn’t react, her horses don’t react,” said Martha.
Carleigh isn’t the only deaf child who rides at Century Mill now – Kleinfeld teaches a group lesson with her and a classmate from Massachusetts’ Learning Center for the Deaf. “They are happiest on horses,” said Babbit. “Sometimes they drop their reins to sign to each other and we have runaway ponies on our hands… but they do it with smiles on their faces.”
For Carleigh, riding is more than a form of therapy. It’s a passion. A “barn-rat” by definition, she hopes to spend the rest of her life with horses. “Her favorite subject in school is math but she tells us that when she grows up she wants to teach other deaf kids to ride,” said Babbitt. “She shows everyone how the deaf are capable of the same things those who hear are.” With Beginner Equitation confidently mastered, Carleigh is ready for bigger and better things. “She just started jumping cross rails and can’t wait for the fences to get bigger,” added Babbit. “I want people, deaf and hearing, to see her, be inspired and dream big no matter what. Carleigh gives them that.”
Carleigh Babbit: Not Your Every Day HITS Champion
Carleigh on her way to a Walk/Trot Championship at HITS
Saugerties. ©ESI Photography
Carleigh’s shows off her winning smile. ©ESI Photography
8 | HITS Championship 2014 | Official Event Program
Candice King is losing count of her grand prix win tally after nearly two decades of show jumping competition under her belt. A top-level veteran, she has seen the world from the back of a horse, competing on Nations Cup and World Cup Teams for the United States. However there’s still one box unchecked on her winning riding bucket list – and the Zoetis Million is it. King was fourth in the Great American Million this winter at HITS Ocala and primed to climb the ranks this time.
Canadian Jill Henselwood, a familiar face on the HITS circuit, is no stranger to serious hardware either – an Olympic Silver Medal from the 2008 summer games in Beijing hangs in her trophy case. A true horsewoman who’s worked her way up, Henselwood can be seen training tomorrow’s stars as well as riding herself. She’s pulling double duty at the 2014 Zoetis Million – competing and coaching fellow Canadian rider Elizabeth Gingras. Her biggest task however, will be to avenge the second-place ribbon she earned at the 2012 HITS Championship.
Boasting Canadian roots, John Pearcenow calls California home. Traveling 3,000 miles east is a small price to pay if a $350,000 winner’s check is a real possibility. Pearce has proven he’s one to watch after jumping to second on his home turf in the 2013 AIG Million at HITS Thermal in California. When not in the saddle Pearce is an expert carpenter. He designed and built his own barn and spends as many hours in his workshop as he does the ring – both an athlete and craftsman.
Known best for flying the Irish flag in
the 2004 Athens Olympic Games, Kevin Babington brings international flair to the
Zoetis Million. While riding is his number-
one passion, Babington has a keen
interest in buying and selling horses,
and knack for choosing stars. With
buyers scattered throughout Europe, he
is always on the hunt for his next four-
legged star. After earning ribbons in
his last two Zoetis Million campaigns,
Babington is hungry for a win.
The youngest rider in the field,
what 18-year-old Lillie Keenan lacks
in experience, she makes up for in raw
talent. From prestigious medal finals, to
top honors at the 2013 North American
Young Riders Championships, Keenan
knows what it takes to win. Hailing
from New York, New York, this local
girl made her Zoetis Million debut last
year and hopes her second time is
a charm. Regardless, she no doubt
has many (more) wins ahead of her.
If there’s one thing Todd Minikus
will go down in history for, it’s guts. A
bull rider in his spare time and race
car enthusiast, Minikus has a need for
speed and risk taking that has helped
him win over 75 grand prix in his career.
In 2001 he was named Horseman of the
Year by the United States Equestrian
Federation (USEF). Now Minikus is
chasing redemption after finishing
second in the 2013 Zoetis Million.
Who’s in the Hot Seat Riders To Watch at the Zoetis $1 Million Grand Prix
Candice King USA
Kevin Babington Ireland
Lillie Keenan USA
Todd Minikus USA
Jill Henselwood Canada
John Pearce Canada
©ESI & Flying Horse Photography
Some have experienced million-dollar glory before, while others are just getting their feet wet in high-stakes competition. Here’s six riders we would bet on as big-money hopefuls.
Official Event Program | HITS Championship 2014 | 9
Animal Connections Exhibition Sweeping the Nation Comes to HITS Saugerties
3 DAYS ONLY – Traveling, Interactive Exhibit Invites You to Celebrate Our Bond with Animals and Vital Role of Veterinarians – Brought to you through the generous support of Zoetis.
That funky animal covered 18-Wheeler on the HITS show grounds? It’s not just another horse trailer… It’s the Smithsonian mobile exhibition Animal Connections: Our Journey Together – making an appearance at HITS Championship!
What is it?
Animal Connections is a 1,000-square-foot exhibit housed in an 18-wheel truck making its way across the U.S. The exhibition was designed to inspire the next generation of veterinarians and improve current animal care through a better understanding of the role animals and veterinarians play in our lives. It features animal kingdom learning tools, veterinary resources and interactive displays. Educating, entertaining and engaging animal lovers across the nation, it explores topics about their care and a must-see for any age and interest.
The exhibition is selectively stopping at universities, zoos, conferences, state fairs and major events. In addition to HITS-on-the-Hudson September 5-7, the truck has made 29 stops and attracted almost 100,000 visitors. It was created by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service in collaboration with the American Veterinary Medical Association, American Veterinary Medical Foundation and Zoetis, a company whose singular focus is on animal health. Step inside and discover a world of important and fun facts about our wonderful animal friends, both wild and domestic – from selecting the right pet and food to health advice, precautions and grooming. The space is divided into five sections: On the Farm, In the House, At the Zoo, In the Wild and the Veterinary Clinic. You’re offered a variety of ways to learn, including dynamic videos and computer-generated experiences.
Exploring Our Animal Connections
“We are proud to bring the Animal Connections exhibit to communities across the U.S.,” said Dr. Christine Jenkins, U.S. chief veterinary medical officer at Zoetis. “As part of our commitment to veterinarians and animal health, it celebrates the deep connection we have with animals and key
role veterinarians play in maintaining their health and well-being.”
Explore and celebrate the enduring bond we all share with animals – from pets to livestock to animals in the wild. The exhibit is for future veterinarians, animal health advocates and animal lovers everywhere. The Animal Connections exhibition is free and open to the public, and will be on the HITS-on-the-Hudson show grounds three days only among a host of HITS Championship festivities. Bring the family, experience for yourself – stay for what promises to be an exciting and fun weekend of events. Don’t miss it!
When Friday-Sunday, September 5-7, 8 am to 5 pm.
Where Parked at HITS-on-the-Hudson (outside the Marshall and Sterling Lounge) during HITS Championship.
Visitors to “Animal Connections” can continue the learning experience online at AnimalConnections.com. The site includes resources on animal care and careers in veterinary medicine.
10 | HITS Championship 2014 | Official Event Program
At the “virtual clinic” be a veterinarian – or at least feel like
one, using touch screens to examine and diagnose what ails
a dog, piglet, even a cheetah. Photo courtesy of Zoetis
The Charlie Daniels Band evokes many nostalgic
moments through genre-defining Southern rock
anthems and country hits including Uneasy Rider,
Long Haired Country Boy, The South’s Gonna
Do It Again and Grammy winner, The Devil Went
Down to Georgia.
What most don’t know about the band’s front
man is that he has a deep appreciation for
Upstate New York, spends his free time target
shooting and owns a ranch in Tennessee – all of
which make the list of five interesting facts about
Charlie Daniels.
5 | Doin’ it Dylan
In 1969 a young Daniels received a career boost
(and thrill) when he was asked to play guitar on
Bob Dylan’s Nashville Skyline album. Daniels was
originally booked as a stand-in, until he wowed
Dylan with his six string skills. Ultimately he
recorded two more albums with the music legend.
In February 2014, Daniels paid homage to his idol,
releasing his Off the Grid – Doin’ it Dylan album
featuring ten of Dylan’s hits with his own spin –
including Tangled Up in Blue and Quinn the Eskimo.
4 | Equine Enthusiast
Growing up in the South, Daniels was enchanted
by cowboys and dreamed of riding and roping
just like his Silver Screen heroes. He purchased
his first ranch in the 1970’s and has strong
interest in competitive bloodlines, quarter horses
and beef cattle.
3 | Charlie Loves NY
Having played across New York for the past 40
years, Daniels always tips his hat to the Empire
State, recognizing it as one of the first to appreciate
his music. Not only do New Yorkers know how to
party country rock style but according to Daniels,
“New York has an energy and spirit like no place
else.” “We played at every SUNY College back in
the day and that exposure had a big influence on
our career.”
2 | Infamous Fiddle Hold
Conquering the guitar and mandolin was no
sweat for Daniels as a teen, however he met his
match when introduced to the fiddle. Calling his
learning style “stubborn until the right sound came
through” Daniels admits to holding the fiddle,
bow and strings untraditionally, but attributes this
to his signature sound.
1 | Musician, Patriot, Writer
In addition to recording music, touring the country and supporting philanthropic causes such as the Yellow Ribbon Program, Daniels recently added Writer to his resume. The county music superstar pens two columns a week for his Soap Box Blog (CharlieDanielsBand.com) covering current events, sharing family stories and reminiscing on career highlights.
A multi-talented, old school gentleman cowboy indeed – we salute you, Charlie!
Charlie Daniels: Five Things You Didn’t Know
Be there Sunday, September 7 when Charlie
Daniels Band returns to New York at HITS-
on-the-Hudson. $15 in advance or $25 at the
gate and includes entry to Horse Show, HITS
Harvest Food Fest and Concert.
Tickets available through:
Bardavon Box Office
35 Market St, Poughkeepsie | 845.473.2072
HITS Box Office
319 Main St, Saugerties | 845.246.8833
Ticketmaster
Ticketmaster.com | 800.745.3000
UPAC Box Office
601 Broadway, Kingston | 845.339.6088
Photo courtesy of the Bardavon
Official Event Program | HITS Championship 2014 | 11
Charlie and his three-year-old stallion, TP New Beginnings.
Photo provided