Great Escape: My Lady’s Manor Steeplechase Races

I’ve lived in Hunt Valley on the edge of horse country for five years now, but I’ve never really experienced any equine events—am I even using the right term there?—up close and personal, unless you count taking a leisurely drive out west on Shawan Road, past all those grand horse farms, or encountering the occasional horse and rider on the NCR Trail.

If you’re like me and you’re curious to learn more about a Maryland tradition, then consider attending Saturday’s My Lady’s Manor Steeplechase Races at Ladew Topiary Gardens just a short drive away in Monkton.

The gates open at 10 a.m. in advance of three “timber races,” meaning the horse and rider will be traversing a course featuring jumpable wooden fences made of logs or posts and rails, which was my hunch that I confirmed when I came across an online steeplechase glossary, courtesy of the Virginia Steeplechase Association.

The first race begins at 1:30 p.m., and will cover a three-mile course, as will the subsequent two races of the day, the John Rush Streett Memorial Steeplechase and the John D. Schapiro Memorial Steeplechase. But the races are not identical—thanks to that handy online glossary, I gather from the races “conditions” that the first race of the day, which bears the name of the event itself, is for more experienced horse and riders, while the second and third races are meant for amateur riders who, with their horses, have either never won on a timber course or haven’t won $9,000 this season.

All of that is interesting but I’m guessing my lack of knowledge of any of those factors wouldn’t diminish the fun. Just being there watching the horses run and jump is what it’s all about for a newbie.

According to the Maryland Steeplechasing website, the sport hasn’t changed much since the first race of its kind was run in Maryland on an infield course at Pimlico in 1873. Races are usually run on warm, spring days across the countryside, and more events like this one are in the works this season at locations across the region. Visit the Maryland Steeplechasing website for more information.

Saturday’s races will be held rain or shine—and rainy weather is expected.

In addition to the steeplechasing, there will be live music, vendors, food and a champagne reception for the winners. Tickets are $50 (general parking) or $70 (family parking) and will be available at the gate Saturday. Questions may be directed to Ladew Topiary Gardens by phone, (410) 557-9570. The gardens are at 3535 Jarrettsville Pike in Monkton.