On Sunday, October 26th the Orange County Hounds will host their annual Cross-Country Team Event at Old Whitewood Farm near The Plains, Va. Modeled after the tradition of the English Team Chase, Orange County Hounds have hosted the event since 1987. Foxhunters of all ages and levels will travel across the state to compete over a cross-country course set in the heart of Virginia's hunt country.

Teams of riders compete over a course one might encounter during a day of foxhunting. There are two divisions; Hilltopper Pairs ride over a course of 12 jumps designed for ponies or less experienced horses and riders. The First Flight Division with teams of 3 to 4 horses or ponies features a longer course of fences designed for foxhunters who regularly hunt first flight.

Hilltopper Pairs compete for Best Turned Out and Best Pair over fences. First Flight Teams awards include Best Turned Out, Best Team over fences and Closest to Ideal Time (a fair hunting pace). The final events of the day are the Junior and Adult Championship rounds. Judges choose the top horses and riders to ride a test over a shortened course designed by the judges. The winning junior will receive the coveted George L. Ohrstrom Junior Championship and Trophy. The First Flight Adult Champion will be presented with the Alfred Hunt Trophy. The event begins at 9 a.m. Spectators are welcome. Food concessions available. General donation to Orange County Hounds kindly requested. Reserved Parking $100.

Prize lists available at local tack shops and businesses.

For more information please contact: Pippy McCormick: doverhse@earthlink.net 540-454-2854 or Jane Bishop: jcb.waverly@mac.com 540-729-7083