Historic Charleston Races Will Run at Aiken Steeplechase
Two of Charleston’s most prestigious horse racing events will run for the first time in Aiken this weekend at the 31st Aiken Fall Steeplechase Championship on Saturday, November 23. The Alston Cup, and the South Carolina Jockey Club Cup are both presented by the Steeplechase of Charleston. The two races will now add to the Aiken’s lineup for a total of seven races with a combined purse of $220,000.
The historic Alston Cup is named for Colonel William Alston, a wealthy planter, state senator and patriot of the American Revolution, who was also an avid horse racing owner. He fought with Gen. Francis Marion as a captain and was later promoted to colonel, tasked with defending Georgetown Harbor from the British.
The Cup itself has a fascinating history. Commissioned in London by Solomon Hougham, it bears a portion of the Alston family crest and the year 1810-1811. The cup features Alston’s initials “WA” and an engraving of two horses racing side by side. Family lore suggests Alston commissioned the cup as a souvenir after his mare Betsy Baker defeated a horse named Rosetta in 1791, a victory that earned him 100 guineas. With a purse of $35,000, The Alston Cup is designed for 3-year-old horses who have never won two races, essentially horses at the beginning of their career.
The South Carolina Jockey Club Cup also carries a distinguished heritage. Established in 1734, the South Carolina Jockey Club holds the distinction of being the world’s oldest jockey club, predating the English Jockey Club by 16 years. The South Carolina Jockey Club Cup is a handicap hurdle meant for horses who have won multiple races that are rated at 115 or lower. The purse stands at $30,000.
“We are thrilled to show our support for our fellow South Carolina race by running their races to help close out the National Steeplechase Association season,” says Frank Mullins, President of the Aiken Steeplechase Association.
While the races couldn’t be held in Charleston as originally planned, their continuation in Aiken demonstrates the state’s enduring commitment to preserving these cherished sporting traditions.
“While we were disappointed not to host Steeplechase of Charleston this year, we are so appreciative to Aiken Steeplechase and the National Steeplechase Association for carrying these 2 races forward,” says Chris Zoeller, Executive Director of Steeplechase of Charleston.
Racing fans can look forward to the return of both The Alston Cup and the South Carolina Jockey Club Cup to the Steeplechase of Charleston next Fall on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at Stono Ferry Racetrack.
