The Lexington National, the final installment of the 2023 Virginia Festival of Champions, got underway today at the Virginia Horse Center.

The day kicked off bright and early with the Groom’s Breakfast. Volunteer Lucy Wallace delivered breakfast sandwiches and coffee to the barns.

Competitors were treated to a complimentary breakfast, thanks to the generous support of our hospitality donors. All are welcome to enjoy breakfast and coffee all show days in the Winners' Ring Restaurant.

Don't miss the 'Cookie Man' when he drives around in the afternoons delivering snacks to all!

The TAKE2 Thoroughbred Hunter kicked off in the Sandy Gerald Arena today. Taking top honors in the over fences and under saddle classes was EMO Stables’ Whiskey Tango Foxtrot, ridden by Maria Shannon. “He really tried today and I was very happy with him,” said Shannon.

Second place was Craigs-Ateriat, owned by Rebecca Smith and ridden by Sarah Nolley. Nolley’s own horse has been recovering from an injury and she was grateful to Becky Smith for letting her ride Craigs-Ateriat for about a year. “He got his name because he was purchased off of a Craig’s list ad,” she laughed. According to Nolley, ‘Craig’ was raced a bit and then after being purchased, has moved on to showing in the hunters and jumpers. “He’s a great horse, great to be around in the barn and has a funny personality. He’s very smart to the jumps.” 

Tomorrow evening features the VHSA/EMO Children’s Medal 3’ and the 2023 AYR Equitation Challenge, presented by the VHSA. All are welcome to join us on the Concourse in the Anderson Coliseum to enjoy appetizers and refreshments during the AYR Equitation Challenge.

The VHSA/EMO Medal Finals take place Thursday, August 10-Sunday, August 13! VHSA registration takes place starting at 2 pm on Thursday and a full schedule follows. Click here for details.

Friday features Sandy Gerald Derby Day and kicks off with the $5,000 USHJA National Hunter Derby, presented by the Heisley Family Foundation. The 2’9”-3’ Hunter Derby and the 2’-2’6” Hunter Derby will follow, and the day rounds out with the highly anticipated freestyle Equitation Challenge. All riders need to email their bios and music selection in an MP4 to showtimejumpsllc@gmail.com and put VHC Freestyle in the subject line by Noon on Thursday.

Friday evening, join us for the Community Junior Graduates Send Off Party on the Hill as we wish all of our graduating junior riders the best of luck on their next chapters!

Saturday features the $25,000 Grand Prix in the Dee Dee Arena. All are welcome to enjoy a reception on the Concourse during the Equitation Finals later that day.