Fair Hill Seeks to Upgrade Facilities to Attract New Equestrian Events

State and Stakeholders Committed to Enhancing Facility

Over the last several months, a variety of stakeholders have begun discussions with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources regarding implementation of the 2015 Maryland Horse Park System Study, which recommended Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area as an ideal equestrian field event venue.

The interest was prompted by new information about the economic value of Maryland’s horse industry as well as an invitation to submit a proposal to host a new world class equestrian competition.

“New economic data shows that the state’s equine industry has grown 23 percent in the last five years and contributes $1.15 billion in annual economic activity,” said Chair of the Maryland Horse Industry Board Jim Steele. “Improving equine facilities at Fair Hill is a vital part of this industry wide renaissance. We have to stay current and make sure our competition venues meet the needs of the equestrian community.”

Implementation of the study includes enhancements to existing facilities and infrastructure that would support improved conditions for a broad spectrum of activities and programming, including steeplechasing, timber racing, polo, 4-H, the Cecil County Fair and more.

As the partners in the implementation of the recommendations, Fair Hill International was given the opportunity to respond to a request from the U.S. Equestrian Federation to host a new world class equestrian competition, known as a “4* event.” The three day eventing, akin to a triathlon, challenges both horse and rider to compete in dressage, cross-country and show jumping.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources, as landowner and manager of Fair Hill, has been working closely with equestrian organizations and key stakeholders, including the Sports Commission for the State of Maryland, to ensure that the proposal for the 4* event contributes the greatest benefit to all park users while preserving and protecting the treasured ecological and rural character of the area.

“Regardless of the outcome of the 4* proposal, there remains tremendous interest and support to upgrade Fair Hill’s infrastructure for a variety of recreational uses,” said Maryland Natural Resources Secretary Mark Belton. “A community-led foundation is now being developed to begin identifying potential funding for critical enhancements and improvements at the racetrack and fairgrounds.”

Work continues with stakeholders, park users, and the greater community to further develop and refine the proposed enhancements in the coming months. As the process unfolds, there will be ample opportunity for public comment and engagement.

“We are excited by the possibility of hosting a 4* event,” said Fair Hill International Executive Director Carla Geiersbach. “With only six events in the whole world, it would be quite an honor to be selected. The coalition of groups working together on this project is truly amazing. We created a fantastic proposal.”

Improvements to Fair Hill that may increase the attractiveness of the site as an equestrian venue as well as benefit other users and visitors.

“The proposed projects at Fair Hill could help establish it as a steeplechase destination throughout the mid-Atlantic region and beyond,” said National Steeplechase Association Director of Racing Bill Gallo.

The U.S. Equestrian Federation conducted site visits this fall and will likely make a final decision on the 4* event in 2017. It will then offer its recommendation to the Fédération Equestre Internationale for final determination. If the site is selected, Maryland would then join Kentucky as the only state to host both a Triple Crown race and a 4* event.