Sunny sky in forecast for Steeplechase

A sunny sky and warm temperatures are in store for those who plan to attend Aiken Spring Steeplechase activities this weekend.

The National Weather Service's forecast for Friday night's Spring Gala, "The Great Gatsby," calls for a mostly clear sky with a low around 42 degrees. The event will be held at Ford Conger Field; tickets are $125 each. The black tie gala will feature entertainment by Too Much Sylvia. Proceeds from the event will benefit Public Education Partners.

Saturday will be a bit warmer with a high of 72 degrees and other afternoon of clear skies. Clouds are expected to roll in by the evening, with the forecast calling for partly cloudy skies with a 30 percent chance of showers.

Aiken Spring Steeplechase will be held at Ford Conger Field, located on Audubon Drive, between Two Notch Road and Powderhouse Road.

Those planning to attend the event can purchase general admission tickets for $10 in advance and $15 at the gate. General admission tickets can be purchased at Aiken Drug, Aiken Saddlery, Boots, Bridles and Britches, Floyd and Green, Ingate Professional Pharmacy, Lominick Pharmacy, H. Odell Weeks Activities Center, North Augusta Chamber of Commerce, Plum Pudding, Southern Bank and Trust, Stoplight Deli and Unique Expressions.

All railside and infield spaces are sold out. Children 6 years old and younger will be admitted for free to the event.

For Saturday's 44th renewal of Aiken Spring Steeplechase, gates will open at 9:30 a.m. with the Village of Shops opening at 10 a.m.

The Guarantor Tent Party is scheduled to start at 11 a.m. and the first race at 1 p.m.

For more information, call 648-9641 or visit www.aikensteeplechase.com.

Contact April Bailey at abailey@aikenstandard.com.