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In this Olympic year, people don't have to travel to London to watch international caliber equestrian events, says Menlo Charity Horse Show founder and co-chair Betsy Glikbarg of Atherton.

"We have it all, including several former as well as hopeful future Olympic riders right here for them in their back yard," she says.

Only two days after entry blanks for the horse show were posted, more than 500 of the West Coasts top equestrians responded, she says. "We made over $100,000 in necessary improvements this year, including putting down new footing in the jumping arena and purchasing brand new jumps for the hunter ring. The word got out and once again, despite to economy, competitors are scrambling for the chance to participate."

The six-day show, from Aug. 7 through 12, at the Menlo Circus Club in Atherton, will feature non-stop jumping competition in three arenas from sunrise to sunset daily.

This year the show is the first in Northern California authorized by the U.S. Hunter Jumper Association to present a $10,000 purse to the winning rider of the International Hunter Derby Competition. Dr. Daryl Hoffman of Atherton has donated the stake for this proving ground for both horses and riders.

Other highlights of the show are Friday evening's $10,000 Kew Farm Ryman memorial speed jumping class at 6 p.m., Saturday evening's $40,000 Grand Prix, and Saturday afternoon's lead-line class, where children (under 6), mounted on horses, are led into the arena by an adult. Each child takes home a blue ribbon in this perennial crowd-pleaser.

Judy Levin and Michelle Mosman are co-chairs of the Friday night dinner dance, sponsored by Steven Silver Fine Jewelry. The live auction will feature a five-day stay at a lodge in South Africa, a kids birthday party at the Woodside fire house, a Giants luxury box package, and other goodies. Dinner-dance tickets are $225 per person.

The Circus Club dining room and coffee shop will be open to the public during the horse show. More than 40 vendors will be offering food and drink, clothing, jewelry, and house-and stable-related items.

The horse show benefits the Vista Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired. Tickets for the show are $10 per day, available at the gate. There is street parking, with free shuttle service to the show grounds.

Visit menlohorseshow.com or call 701-0543 for more information.

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