The Atlanta Steeplechase comes to Rome

The Annual Atlanta Steeplechase is coming to Rome, GA on Saturday, Apr 22, 2017. This unique horse race began in 1966, and has continued to carry on its traditions throughout the years. The Steeplechase is a family event, filled with different activities throughout the day. This year’s location will be at Kingston Downs in Bartow-Floyd County.  

The Steeplechase brings in hundreds of people each year, especially families. The event begins at 9 a.m., and begins with the children’s events. These events are sponsored by the Publix Super Market Charities and held in the Kids Corral. They offer pony rides, hay rides, camel rides, rock climbing and shopping in the infield. Shortly after the gates open, this event holds a Jack Russell Terrier race before the main event begin. 

The Atlanta Steeplechase Benefits Bert’s Big Adventure each year. Established in 2002, Bert’s Big Adventure is a non-profit organization that provides an all-expenses paid vacation to Walt Disney World for children that have chronic or terminal issues and their family. To qualify, the child must be between ages 5 and 12. Following the trip, Bert’s Big Adventure provides many other programs and charitable services to the children. 

Before the big horse race, The Steeplechase holds an annual hat competition that is sponsored by Van Maur and organized by globalspeak.com. The Steeplechase is known for having elaborate hats worn with bright pastel colors. Women usually have very large hats, with feathers around them, and men typically wear the old-school fedora to match their bow tie. Each winner will be given a ribbon for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place. Registration for this contest can be done online, or at the steeplechase. 

Early in the afternoon, after the well known tailgating  that family and friends hang out at before the steeplechase begins,the  big race gets ready to start. The tailgating is a major part of the event, and gives family and friends the chance to hang out before all of the fun begin.s  The races in order are the Enghouse Transportation maiden claiming hurdle, Sports of Kings maiden hurdle, Atlanta Hurdle Stakes and the Synovus Georgia Cup. Each winner from the races will be given a prize, then celebrate at the post race party. Each person attending is able to place a bet on which horse they think will win.  

To purchase tickets for the Atlanta Steeplechase, you can go online for general admission, college parking tickets, and subscriber tickets. You can also purchase all other tickets and ticket packages at the event at will call.