The Foxhunter’s Cup, a flat race for amateur riders, has run in conjunction with the Block House Steeplechase since 2004.

The fifth race on the day’s card, the race draws a group of game horses and riders each year from the local community. Initially run as two separate races, one for Thoroughbreds and one for non-Thoroughbreds, it has taken different forms over the years. In years when participation was light the races were combined. In 2012, with interest waning among the horses, it was run as a pony race with sections for juniors and adults. The River Valley Pony Club sponsored last year’s pony races and brought handmade platters to present the winners, Will Zuschlag in the 13-18 section and LeAnn Harmon in the over 18 section.

The 2013 Foxhunter’s Cup will be open to both horses and ponies, with awards presented to each group, and will run as two separate races if the entries warrant.

A properly conditioned horse or pony takes time to prepare, so contact TR&HC at 828-863-0480 or office@trhcevents.org for more information about the race.

The first informational meeting will be held Sunday, Jan. 27 at 3 p.m. at the TR&HC office at 6985 S NC Hwy 9, Columbus, NC 28722.

– article submitted by Laura Weicker