Foxfield has hosted nationally recognized steeplechase races in central Virginia for more than forty years on land rich in equestrian history. Originally an airport and later a riding school run by Grover Vandevender, the property was purchased in 1977 by Mariann de Tejeda, who built the racecourse. The races were long directed by Benjamin Dick, then by his brother Thomas Dick until a new management structure was formed. In 2020, Dr. Reynolds Cowles worked alongside Mr. Dick to create Foxfield Racing LLC, a subsidiary of Garth Road Preservation, LLC (both 501(c)(3) organizations. A civic minded Board was assembled and assumed oversight to ensure the races’ stability and community focus. A conservation easement placed on the 178-acre property in 2019 protects the land and secures the future of the Foxfield Races and other community events.

Marian Fife, Executive Director

Marian combines her passion for working with people, deep knowledge of the local community, and strong business acumen to advance Foxfield’s mission and strengthen its presence within the steeplechase community.

A Charlottesville native, she has spent the past decade as a successful real estate agent with McLean Faulconer Inc., guiding clients through the complexities of buying and selling homes in the community she loves. Marian’s connection to Foxfield runs deep—she has attended the races since childhood and even took her first riding lessons on the property before it became a racecourse.

She takes great pride in collaborating with Foxfield’s many stakeholders to create an exceptional race day experience, all while giving back to the community and working to preserve the tradition of steeplechase racing.

Susan Roberts, Marketing Director

Susan is an accomplished, highly respected senior marketing professional with 30+ years of experience building complex strategic marketing campaigns utilizing both traditional and digital channels including social media, digital advertising platforms, sponsorship, media sales, publicity, ticketing, radio, television, grass roots and promotional strategy.

The majority of Susan’s career has been spent in the live music industry having served as the Marketing Director for Live Nation Indiana and overseeing Charlottesville venues for Red Light Management along with marketing for national touring artists. Susan has served as the Public Relations Chair on The Women’s Committee for Martha Jefferson Hospital Foundation and was on the steering committee for TEDx Charlottesville.

She enjoys the philanthropic aspects of working with Foxfield Races partners, Camp Holiday Trails and Habitat for Humanity of Greater Charlottesville, and continues to learn and grow in her role within the steeplechase racing community.

Administration

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