We’re only eight days away from the 68th Running of the Block House Steeplechase, being held at FENCE next Saturday, May third – aka “Derby Day in Tryon.”
Block House regulars have probably been planning their tailgate menus, outfits and special hats for weeks. If you’re a newbie or just need a reminder, here are the Block House basics to help you get onto the grounds and enjoy your day.

Where should I enter the FENCE grounds?
If you’re a sponsor or have a reserved parking spot, the packet you received will have a color-coded entry ticket designating which of four gates you should use.
Are parking spots available on race day?
The only parking available for purchase on race day is “Pasture Parking,” which is on FENCE property but off-course and a short walk to Gate 1. Pasture parking is a great option for people who want to meet up with a tailgate group but need to drive separately.
Pasture Parkting tickets cover all passengers in a vehicle and can be purchased in advance at the Roadrunner in Landrum (near I-26) at FENCE on race day.
Hang your parking ticket from your rearview mirror and have all passengers get their hands stamped by a Kiwanis volunteer as you leave the parking area to walk to Gate 1.

Can I park on the side of the road?
No – FENCE is on a two-lane road in a residential neighborhood. Cars parked on the roadside will be towed at the owner’s expense.
Can I just walk in?
You can have someone drop you off at the main gate to FENCE, although it’s not recommended due to traffic congestion. Walk-in tickets are  availble at the gate and do not include a parking spot. Walk-ins can bring folding chairs and coolers; glass bottles are discouraged. Food and drinks (non-alcoholic) will be for sale in the vendor area.

What is the day’s schedule?
Gates open at 10 a.m. and pre-race entertainment starts at 11 with the judging of the Tailgate Competition. The Hat Contest starts around 11:30 in front of the judge’s tower. Between 11 and noon, there will be exhibitions by local riding and carriage-driving groups.
Horses for the first race go to the paddock at 1:30 p.m. for a 2 start. Races run approximately every 30 minutes after that. After the last professional race, the Children’s Stick Horse Race will be the last event of the day. Gates will close at 5:30 pm.

What should I bring?
We recommend folding chairs; sunglasses, sunblock and a brimmed hat for sun protection; a light jacket or sweater in case the morning is cool; and a rain jacket if showers are forecast. Food and (non-alcoholic) drinks will be available for sale, or bring a cooler; glass is discouraged.

Is there a rain date?
Like NASCAR, the National Steeplechase Association has a lengthy circuit of events that makes setting rain dates impossible because they’d interfere with other scheduled races. Steeplechases run rain or shine, although individual horse owners, trainers and riders decide on their own horses’ participation.

Watch for the Tryon Daily Bulletin’s special Block House Steeplechase edition next Friday, May 2nd, for updated information and the names and backgrounds of Block House horses and jockeys. We look forward to seeing you at Polk County’s largest one-day annual event – the Block House Steeplechase!

For more information, ticket orders and parking reservations, visit www.blockhouseraces.com or call the Tryon Riding and Hunt Club office at 828-863-0480.

– article submitted
by Tryon Riding & Hunt Club