A Place to Come Home To

Unique in the heart of Virginia, Deep Run is a blueprint of service to a steady mission to support the horse and rider in sport.  The early history of Deep Run Horse Show dates to the founding of the Deep Run Hunt Club in 1887.  Deep Run Horse Show became a recognized American Horse Show Association member in 1937.

The show grounds were established in 1947 when the Hunt Club moved to its permanent home in Goochland County.  Per the competition standards of the day, one level show ring of turf footing was nurtured and prepared.  The adjacent rolling terrain featured a course of natural obstacles as would be found in the hunting field: stone walls, chicken coops, vertical fence panels.  Six barns provided stabling for horses shipping in.  Horse shows were mainstay social and community events, drawing large numbers of spectators in addition to the burgeoning population of exhibitors from across the state. 

In 1962, Deep Run enthusiasts combined resources to build the iconic covered three- tiered grandstand overlooking the competition area.  The inaugural Bryan Horsemanship Test drew a lively capacity crowd chanting “Rod-ney, Rod-ney” in celebration of the first winner, Rodney Jenkins.  This exacting equitation class for junior riders continues to be a spectator favorite, and is the signature event of the Premiere rated Deep Run Horse Show.

Over the ensuing years, the original turf ring gained a sister ring to accommodate entry numbers.  The outside course was revamped to provide a schooling area for competitors.  Evolving quality standards compelled a conversion from turf to all weather footing.  Additional enhancements have included four new barns, an irrigation system, wash racks, ceiling fans in the grandstand, new restroom appointments, and our own water truck, “Rosco”. 

Since 1970, the show grounds, facilities, and calendar have been under the stewardship of the Deep Run Horse Show Association.  The goal of this group, composed of local volunteers, is to provide and maintain a quality venue suitable for a variety of disciplines and experience levels.  The grounds are host to mock hunts, pony club activities and rallies, exhibitions, and local and statewide horse shows in addition to the Premiere show.

Numerous national, regional, state, and local awards attest to the charm of the Deep Run blend of history, hospitality, and horses.  With a setting evoking the past and facilities embracing the new, Deep Run is a place to come home to again and again.