WHEREAS, Great Meadow, established in 1984, is a 374-acre equestrian event park located in The Plains, Virginia, a region renowned as the heart of Virginia’s distinguished equestrian community, operated under the stewardship of the non-profit Great Meadow Foundation; and

WHEREAS, the land was purchased in 1982 by news executive, equestrian, and philanthropist Arthur “Nick” Arundel, who envisioned the site as a permanent home for the prestigious Virginia Gold Cup steeplechase races and recognized an opportunity to protect Virginia’s open spaces; and

WHEREAS, following his purchase, Arundel generously gifted the property to the Meadow Outdoors Foundation, which was later renamed Great Meadow Foundation in 1996, solidifying its legacy of stewardship, preservation, and commitment to equestrian excellence; and

WHEREAS, Great Meadow expanded its property in 2016, completed a world-class arena, and proudly hosted the first-ever FEI Eventing Nations Cup in North America, further cementing its status as a premier international equestrian venue; and

WHEREAS, today, Great Meadow hosts numerous events that welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors each year to experience steeplechasing, polo, show jumping, foot races, rocketry, cultural fairs, and Independence Day fireworks; and

WHEREAS, for four decades, Great Meadow has been an invaluable asset to Virginia, hosting premier sporting events, fostering environmental conservation, and serving as a gathering place for residents and visitors alike; and

WHEREAS, the Foundation’s dedication to preserving land and enriching cultural and recreational opportunities has strengthened the Commonwealth’s heritage and promoted a deep appreciation for our natural resources; and

WHEREAS, through its commitment to excellence, the Great Meadow Foundation has contributed significantly to the economic vitality, tourism, and quality of life in Virginia, benefiting generations past, present, and future; and

WHEREAS, the 40th anniversary of the Great Meadow Foundation is a cause for celebration and recognition of its enduring contributions to Virginia and its continued legacy for future generations;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Glenn Youngkin, do hereby recognize June 14, 2025, as GREAT MEADOW FOUNDATION’S 40^TH ANNIVERSARY in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all of our citizens.