Horse show set for Saturday at Commonwealth

By Shane Mettlen

Published: September 4, 2008

The 30th annual Old Dominion Horse Show is set for Saturday at Commonwealth Park.

And this year, the caisson platoon of the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, better known as the Old Guard, will be a part of the show’s opening ceremonies, Old Guard spokesman Sgt. Brian Parker said Thursday.

“We’ll also have a static display with Percheron horses,” Parker said.

The Old Guard is best known for its Washington, D.C. area ceremonial units and functions, which include guarding the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery.

Despite the forecast of severe weather, no changes to the show’s schedule had been announced as of Thursday afternoon.

Besides the military display, the all-day event will also feature competitions that test and showcase the strength of animals and the abilities of their handlers. Other activities will include classes and presentations of interest to equine enthusiasts.

Formed in 1978, the Virginia Draft Horse and Mule Association promotes the enjoyment and continued use of draft horses and their equine cousins, according to the association’s Web site.

Commonwealth Park is located just off U.S. 522 at 13246 Commonwealth Parkway, about 4 miles south of downtown Culpeper. Admission to the show is $5. Children 10 and under are free.