Marlborough Hunt Races – Circa 1743
One sign of Spring is the annual Marlborough Hunt Races at Roedown farm in Annapolis, Maryland.
In it’s 34th year, the race is also commemorating the Annapolis Subscription Plate, the first recorded formal horse race ever run in Maryland, back in 1743.
While not as well attended as the Virginia Gold Cup on May 3rd (watch here for upcoming details), the Marlborough Hunt Races usually have around 5,000 spectators.
The eleven steeplechase races over the course of the day include distances from ½-mile to over 3 miles. Check out the final race, the Governor’s Cup Hunt Club Challenge team competition, where teams of 4 riders pass a baton from rider to rider over the 2 mile course.
Attendees are encouraged to wear colonial costumes to celebrate the Annapolis Subscription Plate and the 300th anniversary of Annapolis. And as usual, there will be a woman’s hat competition.
Marlborough Hunt Races at Roedown Farm
3836 Wayson Road
Davidsonville, MD 21035 (about 1 hour from DC) (map it)
Date and Time – Sunday, April 6, 2008. Gates open at 10:00 a.m., post time at noon. Rain or shine. No pets.
Tickets – General admission is $5 with parking at $20. Other options include advanced reserved railing parking ($80-$300 depending on location). Tickets are available at the gate.
Images – Flickr – steeplechase, hunt race, pink hat
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