New Jersey Has Its Own Version Of The Kentucky Derby And You Won’t Want To Miss It
When people think horses, they often think Kentucky. That’s likely because the Kentucky Derby is the most popular horse race in North America, but it’s not the only one. You’ve got the Preakness Stakes (Maryland), Belmont Stakes (New York) and…Far Hills Races, right here in New Jersey.
The Far Hills Races are often referred to as "The Hunt" by those familiar with the event.
This is because the race can trace its origins back to the Essex Hunt, a fox hunting event founded in Montclair, New Jersey in 1870. Hunters established an event to thank the farmers and landowners who allowed them to hunt on their property, this event was the precursor to the Far Hills Races we know today.
The Far Hills Races are now in their 97th running.
They've been run continually since 1916, with a brief hiatus during WWII. A steeplechase event, race day purses can equal $1,000,000 or more, with several races offering the highest purses on the National Steeplechase Association circuit. One of these races is the Breeders' Cup Grand National Steeplechase, which USA Today has described as "steeplechasing's richest race."
The races are one of the premier social events in the tri-state area.
With over 35,000 people attending annually, it draws in the Garden State elite. Though tickets are pricey ($100 for general admission, purchased in advance), it's all for a good cause. The races have raised millions of dollars for local cancer and healthcare-related causes. If you'd like to bring the family, you're in luck - children under 14 are free with a paying adult.
A ticket affords you an unforgettable experience. First, there's the racing.
There are several races, all over 2 miles; each race is as thrilling as the next. The longest, the New Jersey Hunt Cup, comes in at 3 1/4 miles. Horses must clear 10-14 fences, around 4 feet in height. Races start at 1 p.m. and run until around 5 p.m..
Gates open at 8 a.m. and tailgating is common. Many attendees come just for the party, particularly the 35 and under crowd. While alcohol is no longer allowed through general admission, it is available for purchase on site. There are also catered buffets, a wide range of food trucks, local vendors and more.
This year's Vendor Village will include Just Jersey (selling locally-made goods and gifts), The Posh Shop (jewelry, art, accessories and more) and The Mad Hatters (elaborate hats, like those you often see at the Kentucky Derby), among others. Food trucks include The Empanada Guy, Oink & Moo BBQ, House Of Cupcakes, and Jammin' Crepes (plus five others).
The races will be held on October 21st at Moorland Farm, 50 Route 202, Far Hills. For all the years I lived in New Jersey, I hadn’t heard of this event until recently. Its existence shouldn’t come as a surprise, though – New Jersey is big on horses. The horse has been our official state animal since 1977, New Jersey has more horses per square mile than any other state and we’re home to the Unites States Equestrian Team. If you are unable to attend, the event will be streamed online at http://www.farhillsrace.org. If you’re interested in a more affordable autumn event in New Jersey, check out this fantastic food truck festival.
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Kristen is a freelance writer, editor and social-media manager who really loves her state. She's here to share all that New Jersey has to offer with residents and the rest of the world.
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