Gary Dickens                                              May 2011

For some two generations the Loudoun Hunt has held its annual spring races at the Oatlands estate, maintaining Virginia traditions that stretch back hundreds of years. During the early years, names including Dr. Joe Rogers, Anita Graf White and "King-of-Spades" became synonymous with local sporting excellence. Indeed, actually household names in a day when Loudoun's equine reputation was surpassed only by Lexington's.

Today, patrons of the sport and newbies alike continue to enjoy the heart stopping thunder of hooves and daring leaps across walls and fences. The spring races at Oatlands have their own special feel as guests enjoy the spacious grounds, take in the awakening gardens. Tailgating with friends, a little wager or two, even tree climbing all combine to round out a wonderful family day.

Never been you say? Didn't even know there was horse racing close by? Well, it costs less than taking the family to the movies, you get to spend the day outdoors in a beautiful historic setting, and the racing is truly heart stopping.

You gotta come try it. The "sport of kings" right in your backyard.

Resplendent in her new coat of yellow paint, Oatlands once again served as hostess for the annual spring Loudoun Hunt Point-to-Point.	Oatlands strikes a wonderful balance between historic preservation and public use. The property features tours and special events throughout the year.
Split rail fencing lines the drive and creates an outstanding vantage for watching horses and people.	Tailgating is one of point-to-point racing's time honored traditions. Even the small trunk of a BMW can serve as a buffet.
Horse racing is especially exciting for kids. They can get close and personal as the horses thunder by.	Between races, Oatlands' terraced gardens are delightful to explore for kids and adults alike.
Guests review the race board and survey the pending races. A lot of scratches on this race day (in pink), perhaps because of the heavy rain the day before.	Just like the Kentucky Derby you'll see ladies in fine hats at Oatlands. Forgot to bring one? The hat monger has the perfect one for you!
The course at Oatlands gives you plenty of opportunities to see the horses close up.	And when the kids get bored of the horses and the gardens, they can usually find a tree to climb.
Need a program? Mrs. Ketterman (in green) of Ketterman's Jewelers in Leesburg (and Lynden Farm in Philomont) will trade you one for $2.	Serious tailgating on a vintage F150.
This jump lands the horses right on the drive into Oatlands, again, bringing you right into the action. These two horses are racing for the famed Eustis Cup.	Spectators and photographers alike can come down to the finish line to capture the thrilling finales.
Spring of 2012 will see the return of many of the horses racing this day. I hope the spring of 2012 will find you at Oatlands too, to enjoy the "sport of kings" at this elegant estate.