Hampton Classic 'Appalled' At Condition Of Emaciated Pony Brought To Show

BRIDGEHAMPTON, NY — A photo of an emaciated pony seen at the Hampton Classic has sparked a flurry of concern and outrage on social media.

To that end, the Hampton Classic issued a statement on the controversy on Tuesday: "As a post and photo of an emaciated pony has rightly become a topic of public concern, the Hampton Classic wants to provide a factual accounting and update of what has occurred," the statement read.

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"The Classic was appalled at the condition of the pony in question and is horrified that anyone would bring a horse or pony in such a state to a horse show to compete," the statement read.

It was not immediately clear who owned the pony in question.

"Prior to the start of the leadline competition, the Classic's first class on Opening Day, Classic staff saw the pony and immediately contacted the Classic's executive director," the statement continued. "The USEF steward was notified and the pony's entries were canceled," Hampton Classic officials said. "The show veterinarian was consulted and he agreed that the pony was in no condition to be on the show grounds. The steward filed an abuse report with the USEF."

In addition, representatives of the Classic has been in touch with the Suffolk County District Attorney's Biological, Environmental, and Animal Safety Team (BEAST) and an investigation is underway, the statement read.

Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney's Office did not immediately return requests for comments in regard to the pony.