Crisp, cool mornings are here, and remind me of my roots in fox hunting, this being the early season with all the new introductions and time-honored traditions that go along with the sport. In this area, it is one of the most prevalent equestrian pastimes, and dates locally back to Thomas, Lord Fairfax, and his young protégé, George Washington. Upperville is also experiencing new introductions to go along with our time-honored equestrian traditions.
After wrapping up a wonderful 171st Upperville Colt & Horse Show in June, we held the first annual Grafton Hunter Show on September 7, specifically geared toward local riders and fox hunters, featuring a $2,000 3’ Hunter Derby and a cash award to the fox hunt with the most points accumulated by its members competing. We couldn’t have been more pleased that the winner this year was the Middleburg- Orange County Beagles, which is supported by and intended for our youngest equestrian enthusiasts.
Read on to hear about our newest capital building ventures (and adventures!), bringing much awaited modern amenities to our historic showgrounds, all while echoing our traditional architectural style, and to hear from the participants and winners at the Grafton Hunter Show. There are other exciting surprises developing in the wings, as well, like our long-awaited (speaking for myself, here) online store, which will be operational in time for this year’s Holiday shopping. You won’t miss finding the perfect gift among this array of Upperville swag!
You will also see the “Giving Tree” marking the progress we are making with our Capital Campaign, thanks to the generous contributions from our donors. Helping ensure Upperville’s future is a gift that will keep giving for generations to come.
Happy Holiday Season from all of us to all of you and thank you for your continued interest in the Upperville Colt & Horse Show.
Emily Day
Executive Director