The Old Dominion Futurity hosted its first annual holiday party and stallion auction on December 13, 2008 at the Natural Bridge Hotel and Convention Center in Natural Bridge, Virginia. The hotel was beautifully decorated for the holidays, and guests were treated to a delicious holiday buffet , including complimentary wine. Before and during the dinner, the crowd enjoyed the holiday music provided by Colonial Williamsburg balladeer Paul Vrooman. The party provided an excellent opportunity for guests to socialize and catch up with each other.

Following the dinner, Jim Aikman, the "Million Dollar Man", presented the keynote speech, in which he challenged the guests to promote the American Saddlebred through any and all means available. He entertained the guests with interesting stories of the people and horses he’d had experiences with throughout the years.

Auctioneer Brian Chappell called the auction, which included breedings to some of the top stallions in the industry, as well as other items donated to the futurity. Bidding was lively, and most of the stallions sold. Other items auctioned included a Rozann Henning print, a bronze by Dimaro, and much more. Bidding was so lively that Santa Claus dropped in looking for a few bargains to give as gifts!

All of the stallions that were donated for the auction will automatically have their futurity nomination fees paid, and the resulting offspring from the purchase of a breeding will be eligible to participate in the inaugural Old Dominion Weanling Classic, scheduled to be held at the ASHAV Horse Show in 2010. In addition, the Old Dominion Two year-old Classic, an under-saddle class, will be added to the show schedule in 2012. This program presents an exciting opportunity for mare owners to breed to one of the best stallions in the industry, as well as receive a possible payback in 2010 AND 2012!

For a list of breedings still available, please contact Dickey Davis at (276)620-3216 or Carolyn Folkers at (434) 386-4350.