For Immediate Release
Media Contact: Julie Banner
Clarice & Robert H. Smith Director of Marketing and Education 540-687-6542 x25 jbanner@nationalsporting.org
National Sporting Library & Museum Welcomes Eventing Icon
William Fox-Pitt for an Exclusive Evening Program
MIDDLEBURG, VA, February 20, 2026—The National Sporting Library & Museum (NSLM) is pleased to announce William Fox-Pitt: The Course of His Career, an intimate evening program with one of the most decorated and celebrated three-day event riders in the history of equestrian sport.
Generously underwritten by NSLM Member Jim Newman, the program begins with a reception with Fox-Pitt from 5 to 5:45 pm, followed by a candid discussion and audience Q&A.
Born in 1969 into an equestrian family—both parents, having completed the iconic Badminton and Burghley Horse Trials—William Fox-Pitt began eventing at 15 and quickly distinguished himself on the world stage. He won individual Silver at the Junior European Championships in 1987 and back-to-back Young Rider Team Gold medals at the European Championships in 1988 and 1989, before completing Badminton at just 20 years old.
The first British rider ever to be ranked World No. 1—a distinction he achieved four times — Fox-Pitt has represented Great Britain across five Olympic Games, earning team Silver at London 2012, team Silver at Athens 2004, and team Bronze at Beijing 2008, among numerous other honors at World Equestrian Games and European Championships.
His record in the sport’s most prestigious competitions is unmatched. He is the only rider to have won five of the six four-star CCI events worldwide, with an extraordinary six Burghley titles, two Badminton wins, three Rolex Kentucky victories, two Pau titles, and a Luhmühlen win. He is a four-time winner of the HSBC FEI Classics series and holds an unprecedented 14 CCI**** victories and 59 CCI three-day event wins.
Don't miss this rare opportunity to hear William Fox-Pitt speak about his remarkable journey through the highest levels of equestrian sport.
Event Details: 5–7 pm in the Library
Reception: 5–5:45 pm Program and Q&A to follow
Tickets: $15 for NSLM Members | $30 for Non-Members
This program is generously underwritten by
For tickets and information, please visit the National Sporting Library & Museum or contact Julie Banner
About the National Sporting Library & Museum (NSLM)
Founded in 1954, the NSLM is located in Middleburg, the heart of Virginia’s beautiful hunt country. The inviting, 6-acre campus, world-class research Library, and fine art Museum highlight the rich heritage and tradition of country pursuits. Angling, horsemanship, shooting, steeplechasing, foxhunting, flat racing, polo, coaching, and wildlife are among the subjects one can explore in the institution’s general stacks, rare book holdings, archives, and art collection. The NSLM offers a wide variety of educational programs, exhibitions, and family activities throughout the year
The Library & Museum are open Thursday–Sunday, 10 am–5 pm. Library admission is free of charge.
Sporting Library & Museum | 102 The Plains Rd | PO
1335 | Middleburg, VA Email | Website
