MBNA FOXHALL CUP RAISES THE BAR FOR EQUESTRIAN EVENTS CCI *** equestrian competition significantly improves footing

ATLANTA (October 23, 2001) MBNA Foxhall Cup, the National Championship of Eventing, announced today that it has completed significant work to improve footing for both the cross-country and steeplechase courses at Foxhall Farm. After discussions with competitors, the Cup decided to reduce the purse size to assist in funding improvements to the footing. The Cup’s goal is to make the necessary improvements each year to provide the best possible footing for its world-class competitors.

“We have listened to past competitors’ suggestions to reduce the purse size to pay for footing improvements,” said Jim Richards, Chairman of the MBNA Foxhall Cup Organizing Committee. “The Cup realizes the importance of a quality course and is committed to satisfying the competitors’ needs.”

“We are willing to take this chance with our sponsors and the public in order to convey that we are dedicated not only to the success of the event but to the competitors as well,” said Mitch Strickland, Executive Director. “Every member of our staff’s first concern is the welfare of both horse and rider. We want to provide both with the ultimate competition experience.”

With support from recent competitors, the MBNA Foxhall Cup Organizing Committee and competition staff have invested the purse reduction and other funds into new bermuda sod, sprigs, equipment and additional irrigation systems. The irrigation systems have accelerated the growth of the new turf and will help diminish the impact of future drought conditions. The Foxhall Farm Staff has replaced sections of both the cross-country and steeplechase courses and are continuing to mend all improvements.

About MBNA Foxhall Cup
Established in 2000 by Jim Richards, the MBNA Foxhall Cup is held in Douglasville, Georgia every spring. The three-star level Eventing competition featuring Dressage, Cross-Country and Show Jumping, is designated as the National Championship of Eventing. The Cup is only one of two three-star level Eventing competitions in the nation and hopes to increase spectator interest in the sport. Foxhall Farm is used for a multitude of events such as the last 2000 U.S. qualifying spot for the Sydney Olympics and for the annual Derby Day celebration. The MBNA Foxhall Cup donates a portion of its profits to the Shepherd Center, an Atlanta-based catastrophic care hospital that treats individuals with acquired brain and spinal cord injuries. MBNA America Bank, N.A. is the title sponsor and official financial service products provider of the MBNA Foxhall Cup. For more information, please visit www.foxhallcup.com