Once the sport of Princes, Polo is alive and well in Virginia's Hunt Country and will be enjoyed and celebrated in great style September 12 through 15th when the National Sporting Library and Museum welcomes players, aficionados, followers, devotees and the public to a series of fabulous Polo Weekend events.

"We've planned a truly extraordinary agenda for our Polo Weekend guests," explained NSLM Director Melanie Mathewes. "This year they'll enjoy tailgating at the matches, tours of private farms and stables and spectacular sport."

Beginning Thursday evening, September 12th with a cocktail reception and public lecture by Brough Scott, MBE, a British racing journalist and author. Scott is the grandson of General Jack Seely author of Warrior: The Amazing Story of a Real Warhorse that was the inspiration for the recent movie, "War Horse."

Brough will sign copies of his new book, "Henry Cecil: Trainer of Genius," after his lecture. Please telephone the NSLM to make reservations, there is no charge for this event, but seating is limited to 100.

Guests will enjoy tours private estates on Friday, September 13th, including Rose Marie Bogley's beautiful Peace and Plenty Farm at Bollingbrook.

Saturday morning will begin with a visit to Trappe Hill Farm in Upperville with a demonstration of horses swimming in the pond planned if weather permits. Hosted by Mr. and Mrs. S. Bruce Smart, Jr. who breed and raise Thoroughbreds for both racing and commercial use, the Trappe Hill Farm tour promises to be delightful.

Mrs. Smart, a Master Enerita of the Fairfax Hunt, has arranged a show of Thoroughbred foals and mares for the guests, and lemonade will be served at the barn.

That afternoon, a VIP tour of the NSLM Library and Museum is scheduled for guests, with a focus on the two stunning Sir Alfred J. Munnings exhibits now on display.

In the Library's Forrest E. Mars, Sr. Exhibit Hall guests will enjoy the exhibit, Sir Alfred J. Munnings in Print: Unpublished Letters and Drawings from the NSLM Collection.

In the Museum, visitors will be given a rare opportunity to view the "Out in the Open" exhibition, where they will survey 68 Munnings paintings from private collections in the U.S. and six from the Munnings Museum in the UK that have never before been displayed in the U.S.

Champagne and Strawberries will be served in the Founders' Room following the tours.

Saturday Evening, Mrs. Jacquie Mars, chairman of the NSLM and honorary chairman of this year's Polo Weekend, will host a cocktail reception at her Meredyth Farm Pavilion in The Plains.

The views of the Blue Ridge Mountains from her estate are breathtaking and Meredyth Farm, which planted one of Virginia's first vineyards, is credited with laying an important part of the foundation for the USA's wine industry.

"Meredyth Farm is one of the most beautiful and important equestrian farms in America," continued Melanie Matheu. "This is a rare and wonderful opportunity for Polo Weekend guests.

On Sunday, September 15th, guests will arrive at 12 noon at the Virginia International Polo Club in Upperville for lunch and a very exciting Polo Match.

This lovely afternoon with a seated luncheon under a tent includes a performance by the Washington Scottish Pipe Band, a Parade of the Piedmont Fox Hounds and a Ladies Hat Contest, judged by international designer Anna Weatherley.

For members of the public who would like to tailgate, a hamper for four guests will be available for $150 per car. Reservations are required.

The guest announcer for this year's Polo is Neil Agate is the guest announcer for the match.

"Although Polo was a sport of Princes, today it is practiced by professional players and enjoyed by spectators all over the world," added Melanie. "Fans of all ages enjoy Polo today, and we are delighted to provide these superb activities in a world class venue."