Race Day Ready: Your Safety Guide for Steeplechase of Charleston
November 9 promises thrilling races, Southern hospitality, and a full day of entertainment at Stono Ferry. Whether this is your first steeplechase or your tenth, knowing how to stay safe makes the experience even better. Here’s what seasoned attendees and event organizers want everyone to know.
What to Bring for a Safe Day
Race days are long, and the Lowcountry weather can be unpredictable in November. Come prepared with:
Sun protection – Even on cooler days, hours outdoors means sunscreen and a hat are essential. Umbrellas aren’t permitted since they block views and can spook horses, so plan accordingly.
Comfortable, sturdy shoes – Attendees Walk on grass all day, and if conditions are boggy, wellies aren’t just fashionable—they’re practical.
Hydration essentials – Bring a refillable water bottle. With food trucks and activities throughout the venue, it’s easy to forget to drink enough water.
Basics for the day – A portable phone charger keeps everyone connected, and VIP guests should remember to bring valid ID for lounge entry.
If alcoholic beverages are part of your celebration, plan transportation ahead of time. Designate a driver or arrange ride-share before you arrive.
Staying Safe in the Crowd
The Steeplechase draws thousands of spectators, creating an exciting atmosphere that requires some awareness. Race Director Toby Edwards, a former jockey himself, puts it simply: “If it can happen, it will happen.” This philosophy drives the event’s approach to safety.
Keep appropriate distance from the track. Standing too close to fences isn’t just against the rules, it’s dangerous. Horses are powerful athletes moving at speed, and even experienced spectators need to respect that.
Watch children closely – Kids love the excitement, but they need supervision near the track, in the Huntington Bank Paddock area, and around crowded tent spaces. The Family Fun Area provides a safer space designed specifically for younger attendees.
The no-pet policy matters – Except for participants in the Corgi Cup, who are kept in a controlled environment, pets aren’t allowed. This rule exists for good reasons. A loose dog sprinting on the track during a race can endanger the horses, jockeys, the dog and spectators.
Know where to find help – MUSC will be on-site all day as our official Health & Wellness partner. Two physicians, along with First Aid staff, will be available on race day to ensure that attendees, riders, and staff have medical support if needed. The first aid tent is located beside the Official Merchandise tent in the Merchant Market. Event staff are positioned throughout the venue and trained to handle incidents quickly.
Behind the Scenes: Protecting Horses and Jockeys
While spectators focus on having a great day, significant work happens behind the scenes to keep the athletes—both equine and human—safe. As Equine Medical Director & Chair of the NSA Safety Committee, Dr. Reynolds Cowles supervises safety practices for both horses and riders. He emphasized that safety starts long before race day.
Every horse undergoes thorough pre-race veterinary checks with a panel of veterinarians. These aren’t cursory inspections; there are detailed examinations to ensure each animal is fit to compete. Throughout race day, veterinarians monitor the horses continuously. The NSA also monitors the health of every competing horse at each race. Detailed records are kept in a central database, which can later be used to help treat any future injuries. “Any horse that is not safe also puts a rider at risk — and that is not acceptable,” said Dr. Cowles.
The course setup reflects serious safety planning. Paramedics are stationed at every jump, and two equine ambulances, specially designed to stabilize and safely transport horses if needed, are positioned on-site. Jockeys must wear helmets and protective vests, and they receive ongoing communication about track conditions.
All races follow strict National Steeplechase Association regulations covering everything from course design to rider conduct. Judges, stewards, and veterinarians work together throughout the day, providing oversight that protects the integrity of the competition and the safety of everyone involved.
Why 2024 Taught Important Lessons
Last year’s cancellation wasn’t easy, but it demonstrated the event’s commitment to safety over everything else. A prolonged drought had created dangerous track conditions. The ground was too hard and lacked suitable turf. Running races on that surface would have put horses and jockeys at unacceptable risk.
The decision to cancel was clear once track conditions were assessed. No one wants to disappoint fans, but safety isn’t negotiable.
For 2025, significant improvements are in place. Enhanced turf management, soil conditioning, and weekly professional assessments now monitor track quality. Real-time tracking of rainfall, grass growth, and surface conditions means potential problems get identified early. “Pre-race inspections begin about a week out,” Dr. Cowles explained. “We’re measuring compaction and moisture daily, all the way up to race day, because we want to make sure the track has a good, thick turf for footing.” These aren’t just reactive measures, they’re proactive systems designed to prevent last year’s situation from recurring.
Safety Makes Great Traditions Possible
The Steeplechase of Charleston combines world-class sport with Southern celebration, but none of it works without a foundation of careful safety planning. From the veterinarians checking horses in the early morning to the paramedics stationed at every fence, from the officials monitoring regulations to the staff watching crowds, every layer of preparation serves one purpose: ensuring everyone goes home safely.
Race day is about excitement, style, and community. Being prepared and aware means everyone can focus on enjoying the experience.
See you at Stono Ferry on November 9. Come ready to have a great time—safely.
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