Despite the below-average temperatures and gusting wind, attendees of the 44th Annual Point-to-Point came out for the traditional tailgating and racing.
After a two-year interruption due to the pandemic, the event’s pre-COVID pageantry was back. In addition to the races, vendors, community organizations, parades of hounds, vintage cars, and horses and carriages returned.
The yearly event raises money for the preservation and maintenance of the garden and estate at Winterthur. It features steeple chase racing, pony races, raffles and more, but many come out for the tailgating and the opportunity to display their fashion.
Point-to-Point fashion experts anonymously roamed the fields to identify who was best dressed from head to toe. Winners were awarded $500 gift certificates to local retailers. Likewise, tailgate judges also looked for outstanding tailgate setups to award the Point-to-Point silver tray and a dinner for two.
The family-friendly event had activities for all ages.
Parents Ryan and Maria Steel have attended many previous Point-to-Points and after missing the last two years, they resumed the tradition with their four boys and 20 other family members.
Although their 2-year-old was disqualified for a false start during the Four and Under Stick Horse race, 6-year-old Sam galloped to first place in the 5-7 age competition. The win is a bit of irony considering that he usually keeps his school bus waiting because he is slow to board, according to his mother.
“I’m going to show the whole bus stop tomorrow! Look who, out of all of these children, won the stick pony race!” said Maria.
The Stick Horse races proved to be a popular event, but the excitement escalated during the four steeplechase races. As the sleek animals ran over the rough terrain, up hills and over wooden fences, people raced to get a good spot along the course before the horses thundered past.
The steeplechase racing was conducted by the National Steeplechase Association. Winners of the steeplechase races were Junior Senator, Withoutmoreado, and Mercoeur. Complete race results and purses are available on their website.
Contact reporter Anitra Johnson at ajohnson@delawareonline with tips and story ideas.
