The fields of stick horses soon will be going to the post for Saturday’s Aiken Virtual Steeplechase, an opportunity for jump-racing fans to savor the sport’s merriment through their internet connections.
Sponsored by the Aiken Steeplechase Association and Alison South Marketing Group, the online will allow fans to enjoy horse racing (with stick horses), spring fashion, and tailgating from the comfort and safety of their own homes.
“Every year, the Steeplechase brings people from Aiken and all over the country to socialize, tailgate, and show off those amazing hats, bow ties, and pants,” said Jessica Miller, Aiken Steeplechase’s event manager. “Even though we couldn’t hold the event this year, we still wanted a way for people to enjoy the atmosphere of the event.”
The Aiken Steeplechase Association urges everyone to get outside on Saturday and take photos of themselves with their decorated stick horses and their crazy pants, bow ties, and women’s hats. By uploading photos to AikenVirtualSteeplechase.com, Aiken Steeplechase fans can enter contests for Most Dapper Bowtie, Best Home Gate (tailgating at home), Most Creative Spring Hat, Best of Show Stick Horse, Best Turf Course, Drink of the Day and Wore it Best Crazy Pants. Photos also will be shared on the Aiken Virtual Steeplechase Facebook and Instagram pages.
A large part of the Spring Steeplechase is the Vendor’s Market, which brings local businesses to racetrack to show off their goods. The virtual event will bring together local restaurants to offer home-gating specials and local businesses to sponsor prizes for contest winners.
For more information, go to AikenVirtualSteeplechase.com and follow the Aiken Virtual Steeplechase page on Facebook.
“This is an event for the entire community to come together while maintaining social distancing,” Miller said. “We hope it will bring positivity and hope knowing that we are all in this together.”