Upper Marlboro, MD – September 15, 2004– The 11th annual Capital Challenge Horse Show returns October 2-10 to the Prince George’s Equestrian Center in Upper Marlboro, MD. The Capital Challenge is a member of the elite indoor hunter-jumper show circuit held each autumn, but it is also unique.

Unlike the remainder of the fall circuit, the Capital Challenge does not require qualification in order for riders to compete at the Prince Georges Equestrian Center. It is first-come first-serve but there is a maximum number of horses allowed for each division. Although this limitation can leave many on the waiting list, it allows the time schedule to remain manageable and each spot has become a sought-after commodity.

Since its inception, the Capital Challenge has grown to include such events as the Monarch’s Show Circuit Magazine World Equitation Championships, the Show Circuit National Children’s Medal Finals and the ARIAT National Adult Medal Finals. It also is proud to host the World Champion Hunter Rider Challenge Classes and National Awards presentations. The American Hunter-Jumper Foundation Events are held throughout the week in the Show Place Arena.

The show features indoor and outdoor competition daily and is highlighted by the $40,000 ARIAT Congressional Cup Grand Prix, an FEI World Cup Qualifying Event held on the evening of October 9 in the Show Place Arena.

The Capital Challenge Horse Show entices the nation’s best hunter and jumper riders with all the qualities of a premier event – a beautiful venue, good footing and of course top prize money. Capital Challenge jumper highlights include the $10,000 Devon Hill Motors Open Jumper Stake, the $15,000 Children’s Adult Jumper Challenge, and the $10,000 Junior/Amateur-Owner Prix, sponsored by Direct Blu.

Hunter highlights include the $20,000 Added Future Hunter North American Championship, the World Champion Hunter Rider Professional Finals, and the World Champion Hunter Under Saddle classes for senior and junior riders.

The Capital Challenge Horse Show is rated "AA" by the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF). Aside from the top hunter and jumper action running in two rings, the horse show also offers some of the best in equestrian shopping. The boutique areas are located inside and out, with the expanded shop area on the concourse featuring over twenty vendors. Pick up your holiday gifts early from shops offering unique gift items, artwork, the finest jewelry and a variety of quality equestrian equipment.

As always there is no charge for admission and parking is free. The schedule and results can be found on the Capital Challenge website: www.capitalchallenge.org or on www.ryegate.com. For more information on the Capital Challenge Horse Show call (301) 260-2467 prior to the show or (301) 952-7944 during the show.