Since when have “steeplechase” and “style” gone together? Here in the U.S., since steeplechases were first imported from Ireland and England in the mid-1800s.
Most race meets were hosted by local Hunt Clubs, as part of major social weekends each year. Those also included house parties, dinners and, sometimes, formal balls. No wonder fashionable clothes were considered de rigueur.
A steeplechase is still a great occasion to dress up for a day in the country. Especially at the Block House, where the time is right to shrug off winter and welcome spring – and new spring fashions.
But as with any day in the great outdoors, there are also practical considerations. The Block House gates open at 10:00 a.m. and close at 5:30 p.m., so you want to be sure your outfit is comfortable as well as stylish.For the ladies
• A sundress or pants and top in bright spring colors will always look appropriate. Since spring weather can really vary here, add a layer like a matching cardigan or jacket.
• Anything revealing – i.e., short or low-cut – will reveal more of your skin to the sun over a long day. Perhaps choose a little more coverage – or a lot of sunblock.
• A hat will protect your face from the sun – and get you into the annual Hat Contest (see below). You may want a trendy “fascinator” for the contest but bring something brimmed for the rest of the day.
• Don’t forget sunglasses.
• You’ll be in a grassy field where high heels might sink into the ground. Better choices would be flat sandals or ballet slippers; if you just have to have height, a wedge heel is safer than a spike.
For the gentlemen
• There’s no better occasion for getting out your seersucker or madras jacket or slacks; they’re traditional steeplechase favorites.
• A polo or button-down in a spring color always works; a necktie or bow tie can add flair and fun.
• Men can get cold, too, so bring a complementary sweater or blazer.
• A brimmed hat like a fedora will give you sun protection, but an English driving cap is another traditional look. For the fashion-forward, consider a straw boater or pith helmet.
• Don’t forget sunglasses.

Winning Hats
The pre-race Hat Contest is a great Block House tradition for men, women and children (under 12). It will start in front of the tower in the paddock area at 11:30. This year’s categories are, for children, “Most Unusual” and “Most Appropriate;” and for adults, “Most Unusual” and “Funniest.” Winners of each category will receive a gift.
Contestants will walk in a circle around the judges and then turn to face them. If your hat includes a sign you want the judges to read, the front of your hat is the best place to put it.
Whether your entry is classic or comical, don’t be shy! Homemade hats are just as popular as store-bought, and really “working your look” is always encouraged.
Join TRHC for “Derby Day in Tryon” at the 68th Annual Block House Steeplechase, running on May 3 at FENCE.  For more information, ticket orders and parking reservations, visit www.blockhouseraces.com or www.trhcevents.org, or call the Tryon Riding & Hunt Club office at 828-863-0480.
– article submitted
by Tryon Riding & Hunt Club.