OUR GOAL FOR 2026:
distribute an additional $2 million in one evening.
- $2+ million to be distributed to Palm Beach County Charities -
The Great Charity Challenge sponsored by Fidelity Investments® (GCC) is an annual equestrian relay event that unites the equestrian and Palm Beach County communities to drive meaningful change through philanthropy . Founded in 2009, the GCC at Wellington International (WI) was created with a single mission: to support and empower nonprofits serving the local community.
Now entering its 17th year, this high-energy event has become a celebrated tradition, blending world-class equestrian sport with purposeful giving. Thanks to the incredible generosity of sponsors, donors, and participants, the GCC has distributed an impressive $24 million to 370 local nonprofit organizations, directly benefiting individuals and families in need throughout the county.
Join the 2026 Edition as a Team/Donor/Sponsor
Get ready for a one-of-a-kind celebration of creativity, community, and charitable giving.
With the objective to raise and distribute an additional $2+ million in one evening, Wellington International will host Rhyme Without Reason on Saturday, January 31, 2026 — an unforgettable evening that fuses equestrian sport with imagination and impact.
This whimsical charity competition will feature over 30+ costumed teams to represent local nonprofits in a themed relay where the only rules are for the jumps to stay up and that the costumes rhyme. At stake? A chance for the winners to present $100,000 to their randomly paired organization.
Thanks to the generous support of Wellington International for covering ALL costs associated with the event, 100% of the donations received are re-distributed to Palm Beach County non-profit organizations.
For additional information and ways to get involved, please contact Anne Caroline Valtin, Executive Director, at 727-678-8677 or acv@greatcharitychallenge.com
Looking to compete as a rider?
Thank you so much for your interest in competing in the Great Charity Challenge!
Each year, the GCC unites riders, sponsors, and donors for one unforgettable night of teamwork, philanthropy, and community impact. This unique relay-style show jumping competition pairs teams of riders with local Palm Beach County nonprofits, giving everyone the chance to change lives both in and out of the ring.
As in past years, sponsorship opportunities are available at a wide range of levels—from $2,500 (Supporter level) to $50,000+ (Grand Prix level)—offering individuals, families, and businesses the opportunity to get involved in meaningful ways.
A team sponsorship represents a $27,500 donation, which can be fulfilled by a single sponsor or as a group effort, shared among riders, trainers, and supporting sponsors. Riders often collaborate with friends, barnmates, or patrons to form their teams, making the experience both fun and community-driven.
By participating, you’re not just riding for ribbons—you’re riding for real impact. Since its inception, the GCC has distributed over $20 million to local nonprofits, transforming countless lives across Palm Beach County.
Join this Community Effort as a Non-Profit
The application process for the 2026 edition of the GCC is officially open through Wednesday, October 15, 2025.
Please click here to access the application page.
Introducing this year's Theme: Rhyme Without Reason
This year’s GCC invites everyone to embrace the fun and creativity of our “Rhyme Without Reason” theme! Costumes and team presentations will showcase trios of things that rhyme—but have absolutely nothing in common. Picture a “bee, a ski, and some brie” or a “cat, a hat, and a bat”—the sillier and more unexpected, the better! Riders and horses will bring these playful trios to life in the ring, transforming the arena into a stage of laughter, surprise, and imagination.
Beyond the costumes, the theme captures the heart of what the GCC is all about: creating impact through unique and unexpected pairings. Just as a bee, a ski, and brie might rhyme without reason, our event unites sponsors, nonprofits, and equestrians in powerful ways that defy expectation—but deliver extraordinary results. Together, we’ll cheer, celebrate, and honor the spirit of teamwork while supporting dozens of Palm Beach County charities making a difference in the lives of thousands.