Hampton Classic Delays Opening Day Competitions

Hampton Classic organizers announced Thursday afternoon that the Opening Day competitions will be postponed in light of .

The opening was scheduled for Sunday in Bridgehampton, but that's the same day Irene is now expected to hit the East End. "As of right now, we are working to reschedule Opening Day divisions for later on in the week," the announcement on the Classic's website reads.

Opening Day divisions include , Short Stirrup, Long Hunter Professionals and Local Hunter Non-Professionals, Local Junior Hunter and Adult Equitation.

“It appears likely that we will be hit by the storm so postponing Sunday’s activities is the only safe thing to do,” Hampton Classic Executive Director Shanette Barth Cohen said in a statement Thursday. “However, at this point, it is still possible that the storm may hit with tropical storm, rather than hurricane, force winds. Therefore we are not yet making the decision to take down our tents and stalls nor postpone any of Monday’s schedule. We will remain in constant contact with the appropriate experts and make those decisions as they become necessary.”

Monday events include ASPCA Adoption Day and the finals of the Long Island Horse Show Series for Riders with Disabilities.

"No horses should be shipped to the Hampton Classic until we make an official announcement," organizers said. "We hope to have stabling available on Monday."