Willowdale Steeplechase – 23 years of family fun

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Steeplechase fans enjoy each other’s company and some great hats!

By Kim Chiomento, News Editor, The Times

EAST MARLBOROUGH – Thousands of families attended the Willowdale Steeplechase Sunday – a regional Mother’s Day tradition now celebrating its 23rd year. A “James Bond” themed tail gate competition, Jack Russell Terrier races, boutique shopping, kid friendly crafts and of course, fantastic hats were all a part of the fun.

The world class Willowdale Steeplechase event also serves and important charitable purpose and has made a direct impact on local organizations.   Funds raised annually have helped build a state-of-the-art facility for disabled children at Quest Therapeutic Services, the Stroud Water Research Center has been able to further their research and education efforts to protect  fresh water systems; and the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine – New Bolton Center has better resources to train its students students and provide cutting-edge treatment for large animals that play a key role in our agriculture based state.

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Crowds gather for the always crazy Jack Russell Terrier races

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Mom still has it!

Kids were everywhere and spotted doing lots of fun things including “rounding-up” the spirted Jack Russell terriers at the end of the course, designing and ‘racing’ their own stick ponies,  meeting Quests’ therapy horses, hoola-hooping, having lacrosse catches and playing tag.

Families also slowed down, enjoyed the long awaited warm weather and beauty of the Chester County countryside; many did so while tailgating with friends.

The Willowdale Steeplchase has grown to expect more than 10,000 attendees annually; and since its founding in 1993, has raised more than $300,000 for charities.  For more information visit www.willowdalesteeplechase.org and to check out more race day photos visit the Times of Chester County Facebook site.

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A young rider prepares for the pony races

 

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