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Steeplechase Event Now Weekend Affair

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By LAURA KINSLER | The Tampa Tribune

Published: March 5, 2009

Updated: 03/05/2009 02:53 pm

DADE CITY - The Little Everglades Steeplechase, which started out nine years ago as a sleepy little horse race, has grown into a full-blown weekend affair and one of Pasco County's premier social events.

The race at Little Everglades Ranch just north of Dade City returns Sunday, and for the first time the city has planned a full day of activities on Saturday.

Riders come from all over the country to compete in Florida's only steeplechase event.

Steeplechasing combines the thrills and speed of thoroughbred racing on flat tracks with the added challenge of jumps located at numerous points around the track. The races are only part of the fun.

"People really enjoy the party aspect of the steeplechase and all the quirky things that go along with it," spokesman Mike Campbell said.

In between races, spectators can enjoy Jack Russell terrier races, crazy hat contests and Dixieland jazz.

People will be attired in everything from suits and dresses to shorts and flip flops. Tailgating is welcome and prices start at $150 for four people. The top of the line package, which includes a tent, table and chairs and admission for eight, costs $1,200.

The steeplechase is introducing a new event this year: the International Combined Driving Event exhibition.

"It's like motocross with horses," Campbell said. "We'll have teams of horses pulling buggies at full speed, and they have navigate through all kinds of hazards and obstacles."

Last year's steeplechase attracted more than 15,000 people last year, but organizers anticipate a slight drop in attendance due to the economy. Prize money also has dropped by about half, with the largest purse coming in at $12,500 for the Founder's Cup.

"We're being more responsible to our charities," Campbell said. "The goal is to keep our charitable contributions the same as last year."

The Dade City Youth Council has planned a full day of pre-race day activities in the historic downtown square starting with a parade at 11 a.m. Saturday. "The difference between this parade and some of the others is this one is totally equestrian-themed," Commissioner Camille Hernandez said. "We are very excited. We know this one's going to be a keeper."

The parade will be followed by a barbecue at Agnes Lamb Park, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. There will be free blues music and activities for the kids, including a bouncy castle and face painters. A classic car show cruises into town at 3 p.m.

Reporter Laura Kinsler can be reached at (813) 779-4617.

LITTLE EVERGLADES STEEPLECHASE

WHEN: Sunday, 1 p.m.; gates open at 9 a.m.

WHERE: Little Everglades Ranch, Dade City

ADMISSION: $15 individual in advance or $25 the day of event

INFORMATION: Call (352) 521-3661 or visit www.littleevergladessteeplechase.org.

SCHEDULE

1 p.m.: $7,500 Yves Henry Memorial Race, Maiden Claiming Hurdle Race

1:40: The George Sloan Memorial Race - $10,000 Conditioned Hurdle Race

2: Jack Russell Terrier Race

2:20: $7,500 Starter Maiden Hurdle Race

3: $12,500 Founder's Cup

3:40: $10,000 Open Bumper Race

4:20: $7,500 Restricted Bumper Race

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