Steeplechase Members Party Recap
Aiken Steeplechase Association held their annual Membership Party late September at the James R. Stainbrook Overlook.
The guests were met on arrival by a balmy breeze and music by Jimmy Easton. Tables were styled in hunter green tablecloths and fresh flowers arranged by the association. In attendance, were members of the association, President Frank Mullins and Steeplechase staff, as well City Manager Stuart Bedenbaugh, Mayor Teddy Milner just to name a few. Aiken native, SC Senator Tom Young, was also there to help announce a new development.
Frank Mullins opened the night by addressing the members, giving a recap of last year and an update on what’s to come. Last year the Spring and Fall Steeplechase brought approximately 45,000 attendees to its grounds. “Imagine the clothes, food, decorations, drinks, tanks of gasoline and on and on that are purchased to get to and enjoy these races. The impact on veterinarians and farm supply companies and farriers and on and on. It’s a big economic deal here, it is a major component of our local economy that would be sorely missed if it were not here.”, Mullins pointed out. President Frank then welcomed Senator Tom Young stating, “Tom understands how important it is to keep traditions alive and respect our past so that our future is clear and strong.”
After commenting on the venue’s beauty and his love of Senate service, Senator Young spoke on the generous state gift that the association received, a $500,000 contribution that was matched by the Aiken Steeplechase through donors. All eight Aiken County Legislative delegates approved the $500,000 state contribution, that will be used for new infrastructure, permanent stables are first on the list. Young went on to state that it is projected that the Aiken Steeplechase is destined to be the premiere event and venue in the nation for events of its kind. As Senator Young put it, “This venue has the potential to be the leading equestrian venue for this type of event in the nation and we believe that further investment her by the local community and the state will help promote Aiken County, The City of Aiken and South Carolina, to others in South Carolina and to other folks in the Southeast and across the Nation.”
After the announcement guests continued enjoying food and drinks by Park Avenue Catering & Events while mingling. It was wonderful to see so many people come together to support not only the Steeplechase, but Aiken and its horse community, nay say its legacy.
Aiken Fall Steeplechase will be November 23, 2024. Tickets this year will be digital with the option to purchase souvenir tickets. You can purchase tickets at https://www.showpass.com/2024-aiken-fall-steeplechase/
If you are interested in becoming a member of the Aiken Steeplechase Association, you can find details at https://aikensteeplechase.com/members/
Spring Steeplechase will be March 22, 2025, save the date!
