Horses, dogs, music, pony rides, picnicking, face painting. What kid wouldn’t enjoy a day at The Steeplechase? According to director Tammy Beck, the event has evolved into a family affair. “There is so much to do in the infield, it can keep the family busy for the whole day,” she says.
Everyone will enjoy watching the thoroughbreds speed through the challenging course at Callaway, but several activities have been planned with the younger crowd in mind. Children will love the moonwalk, face painting and, of course, pony rides, while their older siblings can try rock climbing or take in art exhibits and blacksmith demonstrations. Many families bring picnic baskets, but if you would rather not pack your own, there is also food of all kinds, including Country’s barbecue, Buster Burgers and every kid’s favorite, funnel cakes.
To add an educational element to the day, arrive early and take advantage of the behind-the-scenes tour at 10:20 a.m. Your kids will enjoy a close-up look at the horses, jockeys, stable hands and owners, who each play an integral role in the ‘Chase, as they prepare for the competition.
“The first year in the mud” is what Beth Callaway remembers most of the 21 years she has been attending The Steeplechase at Callaway. “Everyone was planning on being all dressed up, but we still had a great time,” she laughingly recalls. Her youngest child was seven years old then. Now the kids have their own children, and they come back from as far as New York, California and Tennessee to attend “the event of the season.”
But kids are not just relegated to the spectator stands. The ‘Chase also includes two junior races for competitive riders ages 16 and younger. Children love to see other youths excel in sports, so be sure to catch the young riders beginning at noon as they compete in the Perpetual Pony Race and Junior Hunter Race for $200 purses.
Even the smallest in your crowd will enjoy watching Jack Russell Terriers face off, running and jumping through a dog-size version of The Steeplechase track. And you just can’t beat the ‘Chase for pageantry. There is the Midland Fox Hound Parade, the Atholl Highland Bagpipes and Drums and the CSU Jazz Band.
If your family tends toward the creative side, consider entering the Tailgate Competition. Awards are given in categories such as Most Fru-Fru, Most Festive and Most Southern Flair. Or if fashion is more your style, have the whole family dress in Country Hunt Casual, which includes sweaters, skirts and slacks for women and girls or sport coats and ties for the men and boys. If you want to go all-out, perennial favorites at the ‘Chase include traditional riding jackets with pants tucked into tall leather boots or cowboy boots paired with sporty denim and leather pieces.
But the must-have Steeplechase accessory, for men or women, girls or boys, is a phenomenal hat. Whether a black suede Stetson, simple straw or wide-brim adorned with feathers, flowers and ribbon, the hat makes the man, woman or child. So popular are hats at Steeplechase, attendees can even enter a hat contest. Categories include Most Whimsical, Most Beautiful and Best Children’s Hat.
If this is your first Steeplechase, the experts have some advice. “Definitely dress for the weather more than to be seen,” Callaway recommends, and she says the hat contest and art tent are not to be missed.
“Do the infield first,” Nancy Carlson suggests. Carlson is another long time attendee. Even years she hasn’t been able to attend, she’s paid for her three spots so she won’t lose them. “I think it’s gotten more relaxed,” she says. “It’s a less artsy affair with more family of all ages from all segments of life.”
In addition to its status as a top race that’s fun for the family, The Steeplechase at Callaway is also good for the Columbus arts, hence this year’s slogan, “Racing for the Arts.” More than $2.1 million has been raised for area arts organizations, including the Columbus Museum, Columbus Symphony, Historic Columbus Foundation and Springer Opera House. “What it does for the arts is huge,” says Maxine Hudson, who is this year’s race director. She points out, “The money goes to something we can all benefit from.”
The Steeplechase at Callaway
- What: Nationally recognized race to benefit local arts organizations
- Where: Nelson Road, Pine Mountain, Ga.
- When: November 4, Gates open at 10a.m. Post time 12 p.m.
- Cost: $25 and up, children 6 and under free
- Parking: Shuttle available. Infield car passes $20
- Info: 706-324-6252 or www.steeplechaseatcallaway.org
