carolina horse park

I have been here numerous times and always enjoyed each visit. Well maintained, always changing. Great parking.

The Steeple Chase at the Carolina Horse Park is a great place to spend a relaxing day with family and friends. The horse races are a throwback to days past when tracks were grassy expanses. There are events for children and a surprisingly popular ladies hat contest that was an interesting diversion. I have to admit, some of those hats were truly creative and everyone a masterpiece in its own right. There was a small antique car show accompanying the event, great vendors of hors tack, wine and food. The only drawback to the event is the tendency for some folks to over imbibe and turn their area into a disco club while others are trying to enjoy the races.

The Carolina Horse Park, located in Raeford, NC, is the home to many events in the Carolina Sandhills, focusing on horse racing events throughout the year. I had driven by the park many times but had never been there before and decided to go there for the 2014 Carolina International CIC. The website advertised that the event was sold out but that was just for VIP tickets. Both parking and the event were free to the public. I'm glad I didn't purchase a ticket, as I'm not really sure what it would have gotten me.The general public parking for the event was located in a grassy field adjacent to the events. While limited it didn't seem to be a problem as most of the crowd was associated with the event in some way. This specific race was an eventing tournament which included dressage, jumping and cross country. You are able to walk throughout the various arenas which was nice. Both the dressage and jumping events are done within a rink. The cross country event goes through a designated path throughout the woods and fields with different jumps and obstacles the horse and rider have to navigate. Make sure to watch for horses as there were not always ropes keeping you away from the track. Make sure to listen to the volunteers!There were limited food options, but the food trucks present did have good food. I would recommend bringing your lunch with you and eating it along the course. There were also several vendors selling saddles and other equestrian goods. While there was a small play area for kids, there didn't seem to be much to keep little kids entertained.I would recommend going to the Carolina Horse Park, whether for a horse race, dog race or other event. It is a nice outdoor area away from the urban environment and close to the major cities.