Events Search and Views Navigation
May 2016
91st Running of the Virginia Gold Cup
One of the nation’s largest steeplechase races celebrates its 91st anniversary this year on Saturday, May 7, 2016. More than 50,000 people will gather at Great Meadow in The Plains, Virginia to socialize and watch some of the finest horses in the world compete over the lush green course. Held every year on the first Saturday in May (the same day as the Kentucky Derby), the Virginia Gold Cup enjoys a spectacular setting in the heart of Virginia horse country with the Blue Ridge Mountains serving as the backdrop.
Race day features six hurdle and timber horse races, Jack Russell Terrier races, tent, tailgate and hat contests, and over 30 vendor booths for shopping.
Virginia Gold Cup at Great Meadows
located at 5089 Old Tavern Road in The Plains. Gates open at 10 a.m. Terrier races. Horse jumping. Tailgate parties. Wagering and, of course, the horse racing. www.vagoldcup.com or (540) 347-2612
Bowlers and Top Hats Kentucky Derby Watch Party
The State Theater and the Blue Ridge Chorale will combine forces at 4:30 p.m. – Kentucky Derby and Virginia Gold Cup day – to celebrate our American heritage of horses and harmonies. Enjoy the races on the big screen and then take in a fantastic musical performance afterwards! Tickets are $25 per person and may be purchased in advanced or online at www.culpepertheatre.org. 305 S. Main Street, Culpeper VA 22701.
Horse and Hound Wine Festival
Wine, horses, dogs, demonstrations, crafters, entertainment, food. See the Parade of Horses, lure coursing for dogs, muskrat races for Jack Russells, Kiddie Korral, and dog agility.
http://www.bedfordwine.com/index.htmlTwilight Polo at Great Meadow
Presented by Greenhill Winery and Vineyards
It’s Saturday night. Looking for affordable fun for everyone? Whether you’re a family of 4, on a hopeful date, looking to wine and dine clients, or just looking for THE place where everyone will be, Twilight Polo is for you.
First, arena polo is super fast and right under your nose. Secondly, everyone watches from an elevated berm that is tree-lined and covered with a lush carpet of grass. Bring a blanket and basket for a personal party, or reserve a railside box for 6. You’ll be arm and arm with friends like you, looking for a hot time on a cool night. Bring the kids! They love the massive tug ‘o war in the arena at half time. Cheer for our mascot, Polo Bear who leads the kids on a 2-lap race around the arena! Plan to stay late. After the feature match, everyone dances in the pavilion to
the DJ.
And throughout each evening Greenhill Winery will be on site with a selections of wines available for your purchase and enjoyment. What could be more perfect? Virginia wine in Virginia horse country while cheering your favorite polo team!
2016 Twilight Polo Themes
May 14 – Military Appreciation Night
May 21 – Red & White Night – Presented by Greenhill Winery & Vineyards
May 28 – College Night (wear your college/university gear with pride!)
June 4 – Spy vs. Spy / James Bond
June 11 – Disney
June 18 – Hawaiian Luau
June 25 – 70’s Disco
July 16 – Pirate Night
July 23 – 80’s
July 30 – Superheroes & Supervillains
August 6 – Preppy in Pink/Ladies Night
August 13 – Cowboy Chili Cook Off
August 20 – Beach Party
August 27 – Fiesta
September 3 – Star Wars
September 10 – Antique Car Night
September 17 – Closing Night!
Photo by Tony Gibson, 22gates.com on behalf of the Great Meadow Foundation
http://www.greatmeadow.org/events/twilight-polo/July 2016
Carriage Day at NSLM
In partnership with the Piedmont Driving Club, the NSLM presents Carriage Day, a free community and family event featuring historic coaches and carriages at the NSLM campus in Middleburg. Carriage Day will feature over a dozen horse-drawn vehicles of all shapes, sizes, and eras. Area carriage experts will give walking tours on the lawn, and the afternoon will feature a “drive-by” in the front circle of the museum. The event will conclude with keynote speaker Paul Bennett, Director of Coach and Livestock at the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. Free to the public.
http://www.nationalsporting.orgAugust 2016
Side Saddle Chase Award Ceremony and Roundtable Discussion
Venue: National Sporting Library & Museum
Address: 102 The Plains Road, Middleburg, VA 20117
Date: Saturday, August 13, 2016
Time: 2:00 – 4:00 pm
Price: $25 non-members; $20 NSLM members
Registration: Register online at NSLM website.
Phone: (540) 687-6542
Website: http://www.nationalsporting.org/nslm/event_details/529/
Information: Join the National Sporting Library & Museum in celebrating American women in racing! The 2016 Ladies Side Saddle Chase United States high-point rider who participated in three races featuring side saddle divisions at Cheshire in Pennsylvania, Loudoun in Virginia and High Hope in Kentucky will be announced on August 13 at NSLM. Lisa Delplace, CEO of Oehme, van Sweden, will present the winner with the perpetual award at this special awards ceremony and roundtable event.
The afternoon features a roundtable of women jockeys, owners and trainers, as they discuss the role of women in racing. The roundtable will be moderated by Devon Zebrovious, a local side saddle rider who has competed in the United States and Ireland.
The tailgate themed reception is generously sponsored by Fields of Athenry, a local farm specializing in pasture-raised, hormone and antibiotic-free meats. Guests will also enjoy a fashion meet and greet sponsored by Middy n Me, a luxury equestrian retail brand, and Chasing a Fox in a Little Black Dress, a lifestyle blog dedicated to hunt and equestrian enthusiasts.
-Reception begins at 2:00 p.m.
– 2016 Side Saddle Chase high-point winner is announced at 2:15 p.m.
– The Role of Women in Racing roundtable begins at 2:45 p.m.
For more information, contact Anne Marie Barnes, Educational Programs Manager & Fellowship Advisor, at abarnes@NationalSporting.org, or (540) 687-6542 x25.
http://www.nationalsporting.org/nslm/event_details/529/September 2016
National Sporting Library and Museum 6th Annual Polo Classic Benefit
You will not want to miss the NSLM’s 6th Annual Polo Classic benefit on Sunday, September 11! This classy and memorable event has got it all…world-class polo play, exquisite dining and libations, and plenty of festivities. The Polo Classic will be held on the Sheila C. Johnson polo field amidst the beautiful open space at Great Meadow in The Plains, Virginia. Nacho Figueras, John Walsh, and John Gobin, among other notable polo players promise to deliver exciting competition.
http://www.nationalsporting.org/nslm/event_details/422/The 6th Annual NSLM Polo Classic
The National Sporting Library & Museum’s 6th Annual Polo Classic fundraising event will be held at Great Meadow in The Plains, Virginia. John Gobin, a six-goal polo player and Manager at Great Meadow, is organizing teams for two matches, four chukkers each. Gates will open at 11:00 a.m. to start all the pre-match festivities. Tickets, Tables, Tailgate passes and General Admission passes can be found at www.nationalsporting.org. For more information about the event, contact Alexandra McKay at AMcKay@NationalSporting.org or 540-687-6542 x24.
http://www.nationalsporting.orgMeet the Author with George Morris
The National Sporting Library & Museum (NSLM) is proud to announce a featured talk with renowned equestrian judge and trainer George Morris. Morris has an award-winning riding history spanning over 60 years and is considered a superstar in the equestrian world. He will be visiting NSLM to speak about his autobiography, Unrelenting: The Real Story: Horses, Bright Lights and My Pursuit of Excellence, which was published in spring of 2016. Attendees will be able to purchase copies of Unrelenting when reserving their seats at www.NationalSporting.org. George Morris is an avid book collector as well as a leading trainer and judge. He values the legacy of the riders and trainers who came before him and urges others to do the same.
Price: Free NSLM members; $10 non-members
Registration: Registration through www.NationalSporting.org is required to attend this event.
Phone: (540) 687-6542 x25
Copies of Unrelenting are available for purchase at registration.
Seating is Limited to the first 100 RSVP’s
For more information contact Anne Marie Barnes, Educational Programs Manager & Fellowship Advisor, at ABarnes@NationalSporting.org or (540) 687-6542 x25
http://www.nationalsporting.orgOctober 2016
International Gold Cup
The 79th running of one of the nation’s largest steeplechase races features hurdle and timber horse races, Jack Russell Terrier races, tent, tailgate and hat contests. General admission car passes are $60. Great Meadow, 5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains. 540-347-2612, www.vagoldcup.com.
www.vagoldcup.comInternational Gold Cup
The 79th running of one of the nation’s largest steeplechase races features hurdle and timber horse races, Jack Russell Terrier races, tent, tailgate and hat contests.General admission car passes are $60.
www.vagoldcup.comNovember 2016
Horses & Hounds
Hear the echo of hunting horns and the thunder of horses’ hooves as Mount Vernon pays tribute to the greatest horseman of his age, George Washington!
this exciting event, watch a simulated fox hunt demonstration on the estate of the Father of the American foxhound! Unlike in Washington’s time, no foxes will be hurt during this demonstration. A bag containing animal scent will be taken on a course around the 12-acre field and when one hound picks up the scent, the huntsman on horseback will signal the rest of the pack, and the hunt is on! During the fox hunt, learn about the sport of foxhunting and why Washington was known as the greatest horseman of his age.
Observe a cavalry demonstration on the 12-acre field before meeting the breeds that Washington loved so much. Learn about the role these animals played in the American Revolution and even meet Nelson, a horse similar to Washington’s beloved warhorse! Visit the estate’s modern livestock facilities for a chance to meet the horses, dogs, chickens, sheep, pigs, and cattle that call Mount Vernon home (free ticket required). Join Mount Vernon’s curators for Object Spotlight and discover the sporting side of George Washington, as one of Mount Vernon’s curators highlights objects from the collection related to hunting and fishing in the 18th century. Close the day by watching The Washington Cup, where horses and riders compete in series of judged skill competitions. The winner will be awarded the coveted Washington Cup!
http://www.mountvernon.org/plan-your-visit/calendar/events/horses-hounds/July 2017
Twilight Jumpers
Bring your friends and family and enjoy a Friday night in the country watching equestrian riders compete for over $5000 in prize money at Twilight Jumpers. The child / Adult class begins at 7:00 p.m., followed immediately by the main class where riders compete for bragging rights and a $5000 cash prize.
Bring food, drinks, picnics and enjoy a tailgate spot ringside where you can get right up close to the action. Stay after the riding to enjoy music and dancing in the outdoor pavilion. Gates open at 6:30 p.m., and entry is $40 per car, which includes all occupants.
September 2017
Twilight Jumpers
Bring your friends and family and enjoy a Friday night in the country watching equestrian riders compete for over $5000 in prize money at Twilight Jumpers. The child / Adult class begins at 7:00 p.m., followed immediately by the main class where riders compete for bragging rights and a $5000 cash prize.
Bring food, drinks, picnics and enjoy a tailgate spot ringside where you can get right up close to the action. Stay after the riding to enjoy music and dancing in the outdoor pavilion. Gates open at 6:30 p.m., and entry is $40 per car, which includes all occupants.
NSLM 7th Annual Polo Classic
7th Annual Polo Classic
Venue: Great Meadow
Address: 5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, VA 20198
You will not want to miss the National Sporting Library & Museum’s 7th Annual Polo Classic benefit on Sunday, September 10! This classy and memorable event has got it all…world-class polo play, exquisite dining and libations, and plenty of festivities. The Polo Classic will be held on the Sheila C. Johnson polo field amidst the beautiful open space at Great Meadow in The Plains, Virginia. Notable polo players promise to deliver exciting competition. Tickets are now available! Visit our website www.nationalsporting.org for ticket prices or for more information, call 540-687-6542 ext. 26
http://www.nationalsporting.orgCoffee with the Curator – The Horse in Ancient Greek Art
Join us for Coffee with the Curator sponsored by Middleburg Common Grounds! NSLM invites members of the public to celebrate its latest exhibition featuring a stunning collection of ancient Greek vases. The program features an informal coffee reception followed by a tour of the new exhibition, The Horse in Ancient Greek Art. $5 admission, free to NSLM members. RSVP to Anne Marie Barnes, Clarice & Robert H. Smith Educator, at ABarnes@NationalSporting.org, (540) 687-6542 x25
http://www.nationalsporting.orgOctober 2017
The Environmental & Equestrian Tradition at Montpelier
Kat Imhoff, President of The Montpelier Foundation, will discuss how James Madison, the 4th President of the United States and “Father of the Constitution, may also be regarded as the “forgotten father of American environmentalism.” Montpelier is home to some of the only “old-growth” forest on the east coast—200 acres of unspoiled forest protected as part of over 800 acres of conservation and historic easements at Montpelier. Nearly a century after Madison’s speech about environmental protection, a young lady, often referred to as a “tomboy” because of her penchant for the outdoors, Marion duPont Scott took over the stewardship of Montpelier. She built an equestrian tradition that still flourishes—including the annual steeplechase races that have been held at Montpelier since 1934, ongoing horse training operations.
Today, The Montpelier Foundation honors Madison’s environmental leadership as well as the rich equestrian heritage of the property. Part of this vision is restoring, to the best of our ability, the historic landscape that Madison designed as part of his vision for the landscape.
$5 admission, free to NSLM members.
Please RSVP to Anne Marie Barnes, the Clarice & Robert H. Smith Educator, at ABarnes@NationalSporting.org, 540-687-6542 ext. 25
Turnout through Time
Celebrate thousands of years of equestrian attire with author and MFH Dr. Rita Mae Brown! Explore how riders from ancient Greece through modern day dressed for the field.
$5 admission, free to NSLM members. Please RSVP to Anne Marie Barnes, the Clarice & Robert H. Smith Educator, at ABarnes@NationalSporting.org, 540-687-6542 ext. 25
The Fauquier Heritage & Preservation Foundation, Inc. announces the Dedication and Grand Opening of the Robert L. Sinclair Education Center
Marshall, August 15, 2017: The Fauquier Heritage & Preservation Foundation announces the dedication and grand opening of the Robert L. Sinclair Education Center on Saturday, October 14, 2017 at 4118 Winchester Road, Marshall, Virginia, next to the John K. Gott Library. The dedication will take place at 9:30 am and will be followed by an open house. The dedication is in honor of Mr. Sinclair’s decades of service to the Foundation. During the dedication a plaque will be unveiled honoring the people most instrumental in the founding of the Education Center.
After the dedication visitors can tour the new facility which includes space for lectures, presentations and exhibits. On display will be newly acquired household artifacts, recently transcribed letters, and historic county maps. The theme will be Fauquier People, Places, and their Homes. Music will be provided by Skip Glascock’s Cobbler Mountain Grass Band. Light refreshments will be served.
The Fauquier Heritage and Preservation Foundation is home to the county’s superb repository of research materials for history lovers and genealogists
The event is open to the public.
Contact the Fauquier Heritage & Preservation Foundation at 540-364-3440 or 703-403-1309 for further information.