The Queen’s Cup Steeplechase

On April 27th, I had the opportunity to attend one of the most popular local events in Charlotte-The Queen's Cup Steeplechase.  I moved to the area in 2007 and was really excited about finally having the opportunity to attend the races. My father in law and brother in law were in town from the UK so they were along for the ride. 

(My daughter Sophia, Englishman in the QC and me!)

Other than the main event….the races…..I had been told about the hats. It's like our very own Kentucky Derby so there had to be big fancy hats.  For four years in a row, Trish Sanford, has attended Steeplechase. She said "we love the pageantry of the event and of course supporting the charities makes it even better".  This year's chosen charity was Purple Heart Homes, a veterans' charity located in Statesville, NC. 

After four years, Trish decided to finally join the hat competition. Check out the awesome hat she made.

Not only are there events such as the hat competition but attendees can enjoy live music, food and even a tailgating competition!

Since 1995, attendees have experienced the excitement of the races, the atmosphere and just reconnecting with one another.

A friend of mine had a tent that he invited us to where we enjoyed food, beverages and pretty amazing social time. I think we were able to show my UK family a little bit of Southern hospitality. My husband and I have decided to make this event a yearly MUST for our family. It was so much fun.

Here are some more photos I captured.

HE LOST HIS HORSE!

Wanna see all the photos I took? Visit HERE

What's YOUR favorite part of The Queen's Cup? Or maybe you've attended the REAL Kentucky Derby! I would love to hear about it!