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Record crowds turn out for Spring Steeplechase
3/22/2008 11:50 PM   0 comment(s) on this story E-mail this story to a friend

By RACHEL JOHNSON
Staff Writer
Brilliant horses raced through the final stretches and the sounds of the announcer's voice lingered as sundresses and hair gently blew in the breeze on Saturday. More than one champagne cork whizzed through the air in celebration of the victories on the track as well as the arrival of spring.
The officially sanctioned Imperial Cup continued its long-standing tradition in Aiken on Saturday with the 42nd Renewal of the Aiken Spring Steeplechase. Spring offered perfect weather for the record-breaking crowd of over 35,000.
With highs in the 70s and a light breeze, it was a glorious day to don the latest spring fashions, strap on your sandals, pack your cooler and head to the race track. From the young to the old, the sun shined on everyone at Ford Conger Field.
The Steeplechase, the second leg of the Triple Crown, draws large crowds of people from all over the nation. It serves as a precursor to higher-purse events for jumper horses competing in Camden and elsewhere.
From racing enthusiasts to fun loving tailgaters, the crowd is always diverse and full of energy. Everyone comes to have a good time, make new friends and cheer on their favorite horses.
The long-standing tradition was first begun in 1930 by Thomas Hitchcock, Temple Gwathmey and Harry Worchester Smith, with the first race being run in Hitchcock Woods along the Aiken Hounds draglines. The annual tradition was forced to take a hiatus due to war and civic development; however, in 1967 it was renewed and the tradition has continued and now serves as a fundraiser for local charities. The 2008 Spring Steeplechase will benefit Helping Hands and the Aiken Rescue Squad.
No matter the reasons for attending, spectators spare no detail and bring elaborate spreads of gourmet foods, beverages and decor. Women dress in the latest spring fashions and men dress to impress. Children run and play as parents make friendly wagers with their neighbors. It is a day many do not want to end.
There is one weekend left of the Triple Crown in Aiken; the festivities will continue with a polo tournament on March 29. For more information on the Aiken Spring Steeplechase, visit www.aikensteeplechase.com or call 648-9641.
Contact Rachel Johnson at rjohnson@aikenstandard.com.



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