For Immediate Release: August 22, 2002

A FOCUS ON FAMILY
AT THE ANNUAL MORVEN PARK STEEPLECHASE RACES

(LEESBURG, VIRGINIA - AUGUST, 2002) This year, at the 23rd Running of the Morven Park Steeplechase you'll not only see the regular race goers and athletic horses, you'll also see lots of families. That's because at this Steeplechase, they're not only welcome, they're embraced. "As we've observed the tremendous growth in Eastern Loudoun, and other nearby areas in Virginia and also Frederick, MD., we've realized the time is now to focus on family," noted Will O'Keefe, Executive Director of Morven Park, a lovely 1200 acre historic property, with the race entrance located on Route 15 North, just outside of downtown Leesburg.

This year, the Steeplechase takes place on Saturday, October 12th and O'Keefe not only welcomes area families, he embraces them by devoting an entire area to their enjoyment. "We started the 'Family Fun Fair' two years ago and it has been a tremendous success. I was pleased, though, to also observe the kids watching and enjoying the races. This made it clear the 'Family Fun Area' enhances their day at our Steeplechase, but doesn't take them away from this fine sport, steeped in Virginia tradition. With nature as the day's backdrop, the kids are also assured a relaxed day in the country," noted O'Keefe.

The 23rdth Running of the Morven Park Steeplechase will be held at the International Equestrian Center at Morven Park on Saturday, October 12th and will include six (6) races - two (2) flat races, two (2) races over timber and two (2) races over hurdles. Gates open at 11 a.m. and the first race (post-time) is 1:30 p.m.

There will also be a variety of vendors on-site, food and soft drinks to purchase for those who want to leave the house without taking the time to pack a lunch, the popular 'Family Fun Fair' which will include pony rides, a moon bounce and other amusement-like rides, nature exhibits and crafts, demonstrations and more from 11:am - 4 p.m. And new this year, join Amateur Jockey and Middleburg resident Gregg Ryan as he leads an exciting 'sneak preview' of what it's like to be a jockey and how horse and rider collaborate for the big win, during his 'Family Course Walk' at 12:30.

Morven Park's grounds keepers are gearing up for the races by consistently watering the course, so that both horse and jockey have a smoother, safer ride. "The safety of horse and jockey is critical to us and we are fortunate to have an excellent irrigation system here at Morven Park, which few others have. This keeps our race course from getting too hard and makes for better ground condition by providing more cushion for the horses while running," noted O'Keefe, Executive Director of Morven Park.

For all those who come out to the races, though, one of the most outstanding features is the spectator viewing. Wherever you are at the Morven Park Steeplechase, you can actually see the horse racing excitement. At other courses some patrons cannot actually see the entire race, or are only able to see a small portion of the race. Here - whether patrons are right at the rail or on the lawn with a blanket they can see the races … should they wish to. "We realize that a large part of race day excitement is to come out with friends or family and enjoy a wonderful day in the country, and we encourage that. But for those times when folks want to watch the horses, it's nice for them to be able to stop what they're doing and actually see the race. This outstanding visibility is one of the many pluses our race meet offers," noted O'Keefe.

The races truly are for everyone, and there are several ways patrons can enjoy seeing them. There are party or corporate tent packages at a variety of levels available. There are also railside spots, which allow race goers to tailgate (meaning persons may purchase a spot right at the rail where the horses pass you by and patrons use that space to put up tables and chairs, bring food, drinks and more). General admission tickets allow patrons to pack a picnic, come to the races, throw a blanket or chair anywhere and enjoy. Those interested in knowing more about railside spots, or something new this year - the Hilltop Café - may call for further details and are encouraged to reserve their spot now. Advance general admission tickets are $25.00 per car. Race Day General Admission tickets are $10.00 per person. To find out more details, reserve your spot or receive directions, please call Morven Park today at (703) 777-2414 or go on-line at www.morvenpark.org. See you at the races!

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The Management at Morven Park wishes to express sincere thanks to it's generous race financial and media sponsors this year: Washington Quality Foods, The Estates at Shenstone Farm by Toll Brothers, The Town of Leesburg, Dulles Motorcars, JR's Stockyard Inn and JR's Festival Lakes, Adelphia and the Loudoun Easterner.

For More Information Contact:

Miriam Nasuti
(703) 771-8893
nasuti@starpower.net