Steeplechase at Callaway Gardens

By Aniesa HolmesOctober 16, 2013

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(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

FORT BENNING, Ga., (Oct. 16, 2013) -- Steeplechase at Callaway Gardens will host its 29th running Nov. 2.

Held the first Saturday in November, Steeplechase is a competitive sporting event that provides spectators an opportunity to watch thoroughbred race horses as they jump over 52-inch high hurdles. The 2 and 3/8-mile course is situated on 200 acres near Callaway Gardens. Thoroughbreds, almost all of them converted from flat racing, compete in 12 states at 36 National Steeplechase Association stops in the spring and fall of every year.

They have lineages proven with official Jockey Club registration papers, and are ridden by the top steeplechase jockeys in the nation. Race Director Carroll Pound said the event attracts more than 10,000 visitors annually from Georgia and Alabama.

With activities for the whole Family, visitors can participate in stick pony races, wear fancy hats during the Southern Views hat contest, admire the works of regional artists and retail vendors at the Race Arcade or enter pets in the Jack Russell Terrier Race. Gates open at 10 a.m.

Funds from the 2012 event raised $150,000 for Columbus Museum, Columbus Symphony Orchestra, Historic Columbus Foundation, Springer Opera House and the Ida Cason Callaway Foundation. An additional partnership with the Auburn Veterinary College of Medicine is made possible through the proceeds. For more information, visit www. steeplechaseatcallaway.org.