The Woodstock Equestrian Park, located in Beallsville (Montgomery County) celebrated a grand reopening on April 27 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially open the new riding area, cross-country course and restored historic buildings, including the Seneca Stone Barn.
Woodstock stretches over 825 acres of rolling farmland and forest with part of the park bordered by the Potomac River. There are over 15 miles of equestrian and hiking trails with entrances and parking on both sides of MD Rt. 28. The park is funded and maintained through a public and private partnership between the Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commission and the Woodstock Equestrian Park Foundation. First settled in the early 18th century, the property has been continuously farmed for over 250 years and has Civil War historical sites as well.
On April 27, the focus of the celebration was on the new equestrian features the park now has to offer including the 230 x 350-foot outdoor riding arena with sand footing. The new cross-country course features Beginner Novice size fences and also has a bank, ditch and water jump.
The day included several riding demonstrations including a jumping demonstration by riders from Bascule Farm, a two-on-two polo match by Capitol Polo Club and cross-country jumping by the Seneca Valley Pony Club. Also held during the festivities was the presentation of the Touch of Class award by the Maryland Horse Industry Board to combined driver Tracey Morgan, who often uses the park for conditioning and training of her driving pony.
Councilman George Leventhal, Councilman Craig Rice, Coucilwoman Nancy Floreen, Woodstock supporter Aleco Bravo-Greenberg, Coucilman Phil Andrews and Director of Montgomery County Parks Mary Bradford cutting the ribbon to officially open the new riding arena.
©TheEquiery2014
