Contact:
Marty Bauman (508) 698-6810, classic.pr@verizon.net

Fair Hill, MD-September 15, 2006-Some new changes to the eventing cross-country course and driving marathon course will lead to an even more exciting experience for spectators at the 2006 Fair Hill Festival in the Country. This year's Festival returns to the Fair Hill Natural Resources Area in Fair Hill, MD, October 19-22.

"We have never had a better schedule of exciting attractions than we do this year," said Charlie Colgan, Fair Hill International Executive Director. "And we're confident that the changes to the cross-country and marathon courses will only add to the spectacular experience for visitors."

The major course change includes the addition of an eventing obstacle and driving hazard which will bring competitors into the William duPont, Jr. Main Arena. The plan for the new high-profile jump combination and driving hazard in the main arena aims to bring the heart-stopping action that characterizes cross-country and marathon day at Fair Hill to within a few feet of spectators.

"We're always looking for ways to make the activities at the Festival more exciting for our spectators," said Colgan. "These course changes will bring the action to our visitors in a way they haven't seen before - they'll get up close and personal with horses, riders and drivers that are galloping at top speeds through some very challenging obstacles. Sitting around the main arena, as they do for dressage, show jumping and cones, and being able to watch the cross-country and marathon will be a whole new experience that's sure to be a hit with everyone."

Each year, Fair Hill hosts the prestigious U.S. Equestrian Federation (USEF) Eventing CCI*** Championship, one of only two eventing competitions of such high caliber in the country. In addition, the 2006 Festival will also host Advanced and Intermediate level combined driving competition. Both the eventing Championship and the driving competition regularly draw some of the world's best horses, riders and drivers, including Olympic veterans and World Champions.

"As always, our attractions are headlined by our world-class equestrian competition," said Colgan. "But even if you never watch one horse go, you'll still have a great time at our Festival because there are just so many great things to do!"

This year's Festival features plenty of fun non-equestrian family activities. Fair Hill's ever popular Dog Agility Trials return this year with over 400 canine competitors. The Festival's Kids' Corner will offer fun and educational activities for the younger set, including puppet shows, arts and crafts, face painting, pony rides, and more.

Classic cars will be on hand for those who want a chance to reminisce about their younger years, as well as for younger people looking to connect with icons from an earlier era. Various Chesapeake Bay exhibits and displays will be available throughout the day, along with plenty of live music.

There will be sheep herding and a busy schedule of Pony Club Games, plus the Delmarva Miniature Horse Club will be on hand to give carriage driving and hunter/jumper demonstrations.

Also returning to the Festival are the highly popular Country Shops, boasting a wide variety of shopping and dining opportunities. Featured are vendors of tack, jewelry, artwork, pet needs, exceptional apparel and fine gifts for the approaching holiday seasons. The Fair Hill Club offers fine dining, while visitors seeking a more casual snack or meal will find pubs around the Festival grounds serving classic Maryland crab-cakes and other tasty treats. With all of this available, it's no wonder that the Maryland Department of Agriculture has named the Fair Hill International as a "Maryland Top Event!"

The 2006 Fair Hill International Festival in the Country benefits Union Hospital in Elkton, MD. The hospital, whose mission is to enhance the health and well-being of the residents of Cecil County and its neighboring communities, has been caring for area families and neighbors for nearly 100 years.

Sponsorship opportunities are still available. Please contact Fair Hill International at (410) 398-2111 or sponsors@fairhillinternational.com.

For more information on this year's Fair Hill, including how to purchase tickets, please call (410) 398-2111 or visit www.fairhillinternational.com .