&dquo;TR&HC and all our members extend a big thank you to Roger and Jennifer Smith for this beautiful property and the great opportunity it has given TRHC,&dquo; said Chuck Lingerfelt. &dquo;TR&HC has a vested interest in ensuring the Green Creek Equestrian Park is completed with the vision and attention to the high standards that our charter demands.&dquo;

Tryon Riding & Hunt Club, a non-profit (501c3) organization was founded in 1925 with the goal of preserving and supporting the equestrian tradition and land preservation in Polk County and the Upstate South Carolina region. For 83 years, TR&HC has been abiding by this charter, Lingerfelt said, and the organization has no intention of abandoning the goals and purpose upon which the club was founded.

Although many may not know the far-reaching impact this historic club has, club officials said, it is important to note that with funds raised from successful events, including the Block House Steeplechase, nationally accredited horse shows, horse trials and the Any & All Dog Show, TR&HC has contributed more than a half million dollars to the community in the last five years.

&dquo;Tryon Riding & Hunt Club is not just about putting on events, we are about growing our community,&dquo; said board member Nancy Wilson.

TR&HC&squo;s philanthropic giving touches organizations such as local fire departments and rescue squads, Rotary and Kiwanis Clubs, the Polk County High School band, River Valley Pony Club and local students through educational scholarships.

TR&HC&squo;s ability to grow contributions to the community will be enhanced by the new facility, club officials said.

&dquo;Green Creek Equestrian Park will allow TR&HC to offer a higher level of show and generate more dollars to give back to our community,&dquo; said Wilson. &dquo;It is not our intention to take anything away from existing facilities ‐ it is to enhance the equestrian tradition in Polk County.&dquo;

TR&HC has been a strong supporter of FENCE and will continue to support that organization so as a donor and as a partner in developing the equestrian community, according to club officials.

According to Melissa LeRoy, FENCE executive director, TR&HC&squo;s contract reflects 10 percent of FENCE&squo;s operating budget.

&dquo;Tryon Riding & Hunt Club will not be moving any events from FENCE before 2010,&dquo; said Laura Weicker, TR&HC executive director.

TR&HC officials said the organization is committed to conserving the equestrian lifestyle while being committed to supporting the broader community.