The Iroquois Steeplechase: A Look at What’s New and Happening
On May 11, Iroquois Steeplechase attendees can not only expect a pageantry of world-class racing, haute fashion and Southern fun, but a few new surprises as well. There’s a lot new and a lot happening at the Iroquois this year.
“Our sponsors and race organizers work hard every year to create a jam-packed day of fun for everyone who attends the races,” said Libby Cheek, executive director of the Iroquois Steeplechase. “With pre-race shopping events, a new family area, kid-friendly activities, food trucks, text-in updates and more, this year is no exception.”
What’s New at the Iroquois Race?
This year, steeplechasers can look forward to these new race day additions:
The Jackson Family Area and Tailgating Section: Every member of the family will enjoy race day this year, with the addition of a FREE family area. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Jackson Family Area will offer games and activities for kids 12 and under who are accompanied by a parent. Families can also purchase a tailgating spot in this area. Priced at $550, the family tailgating package includes one 20-by-27 foot parking space, eight armbands and EASY ACCESS in and out of the grounds at any time through the Gaucho Road entrance.
Texting with Steeplechase: Want more instant updates about Steeplechase? Text TNSteeplechase to 86974 to receive updates on ticket info and availability, prerace and race day events, exclusive contests and race day traffic alerts.
Steeplechase Keeps It Social: Get updates and share your race day photos with Steeplechase using the hashtag #TNSteeplechase on Twitter and Instagram. The Iroquois Social Media Team will be featuring and mentioning those who interact with this hashtag on race day. Also, make sure to follow @TNSteeplechase on Twitter and Instagram.
VIP Comfort Stations: More climate-controlled facilities with flush toilets, running water and full-length mirrors for midday appearance adjustments will be added throughout the grounds this year. VIP Comfort Station wristbands will be sold for $20, cash only, on race day at the Comfort Stations.
Food Truck Fare: Food trucks serving burgers, tacos, ice cream, hot dogs, BBQ and more will be rolling into Steeplechase to serve racegoers throughout the day. Food trucks and non-alcoholic drink carts will be located throughout the grounds for anyone interested in a quick lunch or mid-day snack.
Andrews Cadillac Best Turned Out Race Patrons: Building on the “Best Turned Out Horse” judging that it sponsored last year and this year, Andrews Cadillac is adding “Best Turned Out Race Patrons” this year – and giving everyone at the races a vote. Racegoers will vote via text messaging for the man and woman attending the event who is most attractively “turned out” or well dressed for the day. “Best Turned Out” candidates and winners will be displayed on the track’s five Jumbotrons.
What’s Happening Before the Iroquois Race?
There’s a lot happening before race day and it all revolves around fashion. Those in search for the perfect race day outfits are in luck because the Iroquois has scheduled three fashion-friendly events to help racegoers find chic spring wear.
On April 18 at 6 p.m., the third annual Steeplechase LookBook Fashion Show takes place at the War Memorial Auditorium in Nashville. The fashion show debuts the trendiest spring wear featured in the LookBook, the official Steeplechase style guide. Visit www.steeplechaselookbook.com to get more information and purchase a VIP individual seat priced at $100 or general admission ticket for $60.
vineyard vines will host an in-store event to benefit the Iroquois on Saturday, April 27 at its Green Hills location, 4015 Hillsboro Pike #105. Known for its whimsical neckties and simply Southern clothing and accessories for men, women and children, vineyard vines is a one-stop shop for those in search of the perfect Steeplechase outfit. Shoppers will enjoy vineyard vines discounts, music, food, drinks and more. More information is available at the Iroquois Facebook Event Page.
Don’t forget to sport a stylish pair of shades on race day. If you’re in search for the perfect pair, mark your calendar for the May 3rd Barton Perriera event to benefit the Iroquois Alliance. Drinks and fresh appetizers will be served and guests will enjoy live, Nashville music, all while shopping for stylish Steeplechase sunnies. To purchase tickets and get more event information, check the Iroquois Facebook Event Page.
For more information about the Iroquois, visit www.iroquoissteeplechase.org or call 1-800-619-4802. To receive instant text updates from Steeplechase, text TNSteeplechase to 86974.
About the Iroquois SteeplechaseHeld on the second Saturday of every May at Nashville’s Percy Warner Park, the Iroquois Steeplechase is the premier spring race in American steeplechasing and Music City’s traditional rite of spring – typically attracting more than 25,000 spectators. Since being designated in 1981 as the official charity of the Iroquois Steeplechase, the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt has received more than $9 million from the event proceeds. For information on advance ticket purchases, corporate and hospitality tents, and tailgating and RV spaces, visit www.iroquoissteeplechase.org or call (615) 591-2991.
