The Virginia Gold Cup Steeplechase Race
A Virginia fall and spring tradition at one of the oldest organized steeplechases in the U.S.
by Darley Newman
The fall and spring are prime seasons for equestrian events in Virginia, with weekend foxhunts, steeplechases, races and shows. One of the oldest organized steeplechases in the United States and a premiere social event of the spring, the Virginia Gold Cup, challenges riders to race through a course of timber and brush fences, in a test of courage and endurance for the horse and rider. Tens of thousands of spectator’s gather each year to watch thoroughbred horses and brightly dressed jockeys line up in the grassy fields of Virginia’s Piedmont. There's also a fall event, the International Gold Cup Races.
The steeplechase is thought to have originated in Ireland in the 18th century, when two friends held a race to settle an argument over whose horse was best. The highest points in the area were church steeples. The friends literally raced to a steeple crossing natural obstacles in the countryside such as ditches and fences, and thus began the sport of steeplechasing. In Virginia, steeplechasing may date back to Colonial Times. Virginia’s Gold Cup began in 1922, a competition between “gentlemen wearing racing colors or officers of the U.S. Army in uniform.”
Photo Credit David Oliver.
The Virginia Gold Cup’s four-mile obstacle course is challenging and can result in spills for horse and rider. It’s a full day of usually seven races during which the steeplechase horses must combine speed with good jumping ability. Spectators are allowed unusually close to the course at this event, bringing the sound of thundering hooves and the rush of excitement as rider’s dash to the finish line.
Photo Credit Douglas Lees.
As much as this event is about the races, fashion, tailgate parties and dogs are also major elements. Many men get festive with pink shirts and pants, while ladies don spring dresses and wide-brimmed and sometimes eccentric hats.
Shopper’s delight in purchasing the latest equestrian styles, while food and drink abound from catered tailgate parties. Jack Russell Terriers yelp during their own version of the steeplechase, as they fly over their own, albeit smaller, fences.
Photo Credit Tracy Woodward.
For the jockeys at this event, the fanfare is secondary. Outsiders may see the evident dangers in this type of racing, but for those on horseback, the dangers are secondary too. It is a love of horses and the sport that keeps these athletes in the race.
How you can go: The International Gold Cup Races are held each fall, with the upcoming race on Saturday, October 19th, 2013. The Virginia Gold Cup is held each spring with the upcoming date set for Saturday, May 3rd, 2014. Learn more at www.vagoldcup.com.
