Bartlett, NH - August 16, 2000 - Equestrian action galloped back into the Mount Washington Valley today with the start of the 16th Annual Attitash Bear Peak Equine Festival. Located at the scenic Fields of Attitash in Bartlett, NH, the top riders and horses from throughout the U.S. will compete daily through Sunday.

Today, McLain Ward of Brewster, NY captured the $2,000 Mercedes Benz Modified Jumper Class in a speedy jump-off time of 29.140 seconds on Naomi. Ward is the defending champion in Sunday's $50,000 Mercedes Benz Grand Prix of New Hampshire.

"Naomi was really good today," Ward commented about the 15 year-old German mare. "She did everything I hoped she would do. Naomi is always really fast and that certainly paid off in this class."

Ward is pleased to be back competing at the Attitash Bear Peak Equine Festival. "I really enjoy coming here, and look forward to it. This is definitely one of the best shows of the year."

Finishing second in the class was 1999 Pan American Games individual Silver Medalist Peter Wylde of Dover Plains, NY on Macanudo Very Well St. George, while U.S. Equestrian Team veteran Chris Kappler of Pittstown, NJ placed third with Korina.

Wylde is also very happy to be competing in New Hampshire. "It is great to back at Attitash. I love it here - it's a beautiful setting, the footing is really good, and the schedule is wonderful."

Jeffrey Welles of New Canaan, CT won the $1,000 WMWV-FM Low Preliminary Jumper on S & L Velvet Ropes, and also won the $1,500 WMUR-TV High Preliminary Jumper on Peter Pan.

In addition to the thrilling spectacle of equestrian competition, spectators at the Attitash Bear Peak Equine Festival will find a variety of attractions at the Fields of Attitash. Shopping fans will enjoy the Country Fair Expo adjacent to the Grand Prix Ring featuring local retailers displaying artwork, jewelry, crafts, clothing and a variety of equestrian items for sale. A fine selection of local foods will be available to sample ringside at the "Taste of the Valley" Food Festival featuring area restaurateurs. Equine demonstrations, hay rides, and a children's play area round out the activities during the event.

Later in the week, spectators can mingle with riders in the VIP tent at the first annual Riders Reception following the conclusion of Saturday's competition. Enjoy wine and cheese, beautiful music, and most importantly, the announcement of the competition order for the $50,000 Mercedes Benz Grand Prix of New Hampshire which runs on Sunday at 2:00.

For tickets and group sales information, please call (800)237-8924. Please call (603)374-2368 for further information about the Attitash Bear Peak Equine Festival or go to www.attitash.com on the Internet.