What's not to love about Twilight Jumpers at Great Meadow? This equestrian sporting event provides a great al fresco way to celebrate TGIF surrounded by the spectacular scenery of The Plains, midway between Middleburg and Warrenton. The evening includes gorgeous horses jumping painted fences, riders who love leaping tall obstacles in a single bound, VIP boxes, tailgate parking on the berm, on-site food, fire pit, DJ and dancing.

The first of the four 2014 Twilight Jumpers took place on May 30. Sophie Galli, 16, resident of Middleburg and student at Foxcroft School, won the $500 Children's/Adult Jumper Classic, riding Foxcroft's Berlysca Van De Vaelenberg. Sophie has enjoyed great success in children's jumpers, winning a number of championships at A-rated shows.

In the $5,000 1.30meter Mini Prix, Sylvio Mazzoni of Middleburg and Ocala (FL) bested the field of 21 with his Remonta Habano. In April, the US Equestrian Federation appointed Mazzoni the show jumping coach for the US 3-day eventing team and training-listed riders. The veteran jumper rider-trainer and his wife Jessie and their children divide their time between Middleburg and Ocala.

By attending Twilight Jumpers, you help the High Performance Equestrian Foundation (501(c)(3) tax-exempt non-profit) to provide financial assistance to capable but underfunded riders. The "founding" Denegre family is totally involved with horses, hounds, foxhunting, conservation of open spaces, and helping talented equestrians to achieve their goals. Penny and John Denegre and their daughter Alden Denegre Moylan, HPEF executive director, lead the merry band of volunteers who make Twilight Jumpers a popular Friday night destination.

Twilight Jumpers take place on Fridays: June 27, July 18 and August 29. $30 per carload or you can reserve a ringside box or tailgate parking space on the berm. Gate 2 at Great Meadow opens at 6:30. First class begins at 7, the Mini Prix at 8:30. At the conclusion of the jumper competition, the DJ starts the dance party.

For more information: www.equestrianfoundation.org