Aiken’s Fall Steeplechase

Aiken, SC—- And their off. With hundreds of spectators watching them gallop.The Steeplechasing fall tradition known as the holiday cup continued in Aiken County this weekend with plenty of fans enjoying it like Ralph Forrest.

Ralph Forrest, Aiken County, SC: “This is all tradition and we are really fortunate to have it.”

Many worried that the weather would affect the outcome of the races but their was plenty of sunshine.

Ralph Forrest: “A lot of people tailgating, a lot of tents are up it doesn’t seem to be affecting them. Even the rain this morning did not slow them down.”

Horse riders say the Steeplechase is different from other horse races.

Danielle Hodson, Horse Rider: “There are a lot of disciplines when it comes to riding. It’s a little different then all the others. It’s a lot faster.”

Danielle Hodsdon rode horse number four during the allowance race and horse number five in the Philly race.

Danielle Hodson: “It’s very similar to flat racing. If anybody has been to the track and watched flat racing… we just add obstacles to make it a little more exciting and I think it makes it great for the fans.”

And if you’ve dreamed of one day competing in the Steelpechase Danielle offers this word of advice.

Danielle Hodson: “Get into steeplechase. Get in with any of the top Steeplechase trainers. Go and ask for a job riding. All of our exercise riders jump as well and learn as they go.”

Riders competed for cash prizes of up to 40-thousand dollars.