MINERAL SPRINGS, N.C. -- A rainy day on the paddock didn't stop the fun at the 20th annual Queen's Cup Steeplechase in Mineral Springs.
"We've had prettier," said tailgater Heather Burgess, "but at least it's not raining now."
"We're having a blast," agreed her friend Stephanie Basile.
"There's sandwiches and dips and cookies galore…" she said, her voice trailing as she looked at the extensive tailgate meal spread before her and her friends.
The Steeplechase is raising thousands of dollars for the Alzheimer's Association. It's the second year the charity has benefited from the series of five horse races that draws well-dressed, well-heeled patrons of all ages.
Dressing up is part of the fun, despite the rain.
"I think we've gotten through the worst of it," said Executive Director Taylor Winchester, about an hour before the first horse race started. "At least that's what I'm hoping for, so we'll just make the best of it and have fun with it."
At least properly-dressed patrons didn't have to worry about their hair – fancy hats are encouraged for the event.
A contest for the best hat among men, women, and children was one of the preliminary events.
"I took the logo and a big 20 and really wanted to highlight this year," said Ashley Stroupe, sporting a hat worthy of celebration. "The more you add the heavier it gets.. so my neck's about to break right now, but it's worth it!"
Stroupe had a lot to be proud of: Her hat won first place, and the hat she designed for her fiancé Billy – complete with a stuffed horse – took third.
But great attitudes won the day, proving the Steeplechase was not just about racing… but a little horsing around.
