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0000017c-9d77-d6fa-a57f-ff7726d30000Veteran reporter Samantha Lederman's beat is all things equine - from trail riding to top-level competition and everything in between.Samantha's reports provide a vital window into Lexington's reputation as the "Horse Capital of the World."

Hopes Remain High For Long-Running Equine Event

Samantha Lederman

The Keeneland Spring Meet, the Rolex Three Day Event and The Kentucky Derby may all be over, but there’s still an important Spring tradition to enjoy in the Bluegrass and it takes place this weekend at the Kentucky Horse Park.  Samantha Lederman previews the 48th annual High Hope Steeplechase.

Since Keeneland dropped it’s steeplechase from it’s card, the High Hope is now the only race of it’s kind in the area, which means you can expect a high quality field, says Michelle Primm, Racing Secretary and Chairman, and President of the Board of Directors.

But of course, if you know anything about the High Hope, you’ll know it’s about much more than just the racing. There’s the tailgating for starters, and as usual, there’ll be the terrier and dog races, the parade of hounds, food, drinks and shopping opportunities, a live band after the racing and the stick horse races for children, in addition to pony races.

Tickets start at $25 for general admission and you can buy them online via the High Hope Steeplechase website or at the Horse Park on Sunday.  Proceeds benefit Central Kentucky Riding For Hope and the Kentucky Horse Park Foundation.

Credit Samantha Lederman
Rosie Napravnik training a young jockey for the pony races.

From the Kentucky Horse Park Foundation:

The 48th High Hope Steeplechase returns to the Kentucky Horse Park on Sunday, May 22, 2016.

 

For nearly fifty years, the High Hope Steeplechase has held a special place on the Kentucky spring calendar. It stands as one of the state’s most beloved traditions. Brimming in history and known as the “sport of kings,” steeplechasing stands as one of the most exciting equestrian competitions, and Lexington, Kentucky has been fortunate to host High Hope since its inception in 1966. For much of that time, High Hope Steeplechase has been held at the Kentucky Horse Park and has served as a gathering place for friends, a tradition for families, a benefit for area non-profits, and a thrilling display of equestrian excellence.

 

In 2016, High Hope Steeplechase will benefit two beloved Central Kentucky institutions, the Kentucky Horse Park Foundation and Central Kentucky Riding for Hope. The Kentucky Horse Park foundation is dedicated to raising private support for the park. This helps the park succeed as a world-renowned center for equestrian competition and operate as a working horse farm. Central Kentucky Riding for Hope’s mission is to enrich the community by improving the quality of life and health of individuals with special physical, cognitive, emotional, or social needs through therapeutic activities with the horse.

 

Each year, over 15,000 High Hope Steeplechase spectators enjoy the thrills of jump and flat racing from a variety of vantage points. The preferred tailgate area where cars are parked trackside is sought after, with large picnics and lavish spreads displayed to entertain guests. Corporate tents, lawn boxes, tickets to the Members Pavilion, and general admission parking passes are also available for purchase.

 

Gates open at 11 am with a vendor area, lure races for all breeds and ages of dogs, stick horse races and various children’s activities. The racing day opens with a Ladies Side Saddle Parade at 12:30 and a Ladies Side Saddle Flat Race at 12:45. Post time for the first steeplechase race is 1:30 pm. The day continues until approximately 5:30 pm, incorporating equestrian entertainment, the parade of the Long Run Hounds, a Ladies Side Saddle race over fences, four sanctioned steeplechase races and much more. Offering something for everyone, this event celebrates the beauty of the Bluegrass in all its forms.

 

The High Hope Steeplechase event is Sunday, May 22nd, 2016; gates open at 11:00am. General admission is $25 per carload and may be purchased at the gate. Other ticket options are available with advanced purchase by visiting www.HighHopeSteeplechase.com.