Sixty-Sixth Running of the International Gold Cup

It was a brilliant autumn afternoon played out for the 66th annual International Gold Cup steeplechase racing classic on October 18 at Great Meadow in Virginia's beautiful horse country. As always, guests arrived wearing their best fall fashions and hats.

Once again, elaborate tents dotted exclusive Member's Hill, and there was no shortage of tailgates and parties. This Washington area tradition featured eight races with purses totaling over $100,000.

In 2003, the International Gold Cup and the Virginia Gold Cup, the counterpart race run at Great Meadow every May, combined raised over $300,000. Ticket proceeds went entirely to the Meadow Outdoors Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of open space for community access.

The Meadow Outdoors Foundation preserves and maintains Great Meadow for the community to enjoy free of charge, using donations to ensure that the facility remains pristine. Other events held there include polo matches, cross country meets, youth leagues, and other horse shows and races.

The Foundation was started by Arthur (Nick) Arundel 20 years ago, who donated the land after rescuing it from an impending 500 house development.