GEORGIA STEEPLECHASE 2018

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/25/18

Saturday, April 7th

Kingston Downs, GA

The Steeplechase held at Kingston Downs is a timeless southern tradition held at one of the most widely respected tracks in the south east. Each year, tens-of-thousands of equestrian enthusiast and organizations come together for an amazing social event benefiting several Georgia charities. Since 1966, the Steeplechase has been Georgia’s premier entertainment and sporting event often referred to as “the best lawn party in Georgia.” This year’s steeplechase will offer racegoers an unforgettable day featuring food trucks, shopping, wine tastings, and a new kids corral. Racegoers will also enjoy the ever popular Hat Parade and Contest, the terrier races, and opportunity to attend the Chairman’s Pavilion and Brunch on the Backstretch parties. We look forward to having you, your friends and families join us on April 7th! Tickets range from $40 for General Admission to $400 Early Bird Chairman’s Pavilion until April 1st. The Early Bird Chairman’s Pavilion is located on the hill above the finish line, with premium open bar, elegant lunch buffets, car valet, and full access to the Paddock & the finish line. Viewing the race doesn’t get better than this! You can also purchase Brunch on the Backstretch for $90 until April 1st. This includes guest speakers, meet the jockeys, pre-race highlights, and includes general admission to the in-field (must have parking pass). More info and tickets here: https://georgiasteeplechase.org/

Tentative Race Schedule and Activities

9:00 AM: Gates Open

10:00 AM:

  • Brunch on the Backstretch (Tent Opens at 10:00)
  • Vendor Village Opens

11:00 AM:

  • Chairman’s Pavilion Taste and Toast Opens (upper terrace)
  • Registration begins for the Hat Parade and Contest (categories: Most Beautiful, Most Whimsical, and Best Children’s Hat)
  • Registration begins for the Best Dressed Gentleman Contest

12:00 PM:

  • Food Furlough and Vineyard Row Open
  • Kids Corral Opens with Inflatables, Stick Horse Decoration Competition, Stick Horse Races, Lasso Competition, Popcorn, Cotton Candy, Arts, Crafts, Rock Climbing, Bungee Jumping, Moonwalk, Face Painting (12 and under with Kids Corral wristband required for entry)
  • Shakerag Riders

12:30 PM:

  • Opening Ceremonies
  • Bagpipers to the Tower
  • Presentation of Colors
  • National Anthem
  • Invocation
  • Race Director’s Welcome
  • Presentation of the Award of Dedication

1:20 PM:  Introduction of Jockeys and Thoroughbreds First Race

1:30 PM:  1st Race

“Best Decorated” Picnic Box Competition Winner Announced

1:50 PM:  Introduction of Jockeys and Thoroughbreds Second Race

2:00 PM:  2nd Race

2:20 PM:  Introduction of Jockeys and Thoroughbreds Third Race

2:30 PM:  3rd Race

“Hat Contests” and “Best Dressed Gentleman” Winners Announced 

2:50 PM:  Introduction of Jockeys and Thoroughbreds Fourth Race

3:00 PM:  4th Race

“Best Decorated” Infield Tailgate Competition Winner Announced

3:20 PM:  Introduction of Jockeys and Thoroughbreds Fifth Race

3:30 PM:  5th Race

3:50 PM:  Closing Ceremony

4:00 PM:  Course Closed

5:00 PM:  Gates Close (only those with Post Party wristbands allowed to remain on property)

5:00-7:00 PM:  Post Race Party