Event: 75th Annual International Gold Cup Races

Coming from a long family line of horse breeders, I know one or two things about horse races. However, I must say, experiencing a steeplechase race is on a different level. On October 20, 2012 LuxuriousPROTOTYPE.com had the opportunity to experience the 75th Annual International Gold Cup Races in The Plains, VA at the Great Meadows. The Gold Cup Races occurs twice a year, The VA Gold Cup in the Spring and the International Gold Cup Races in the Fall. The day was filled with events such as the Jack Russell Terrier race, hat competition, tailgate competition and of course the main event, the horse races. One of the main aspects that makes steeplechase races different from regular horse races is that the orientation of the course reference to a church steeple, jumping fences and ditches and generally traversing the many intervening obstacles in the countryside.

Although the race may be different, the tailgating and scene is all the same. Horse races often brings out generations of families who have an affinity for horses or who themselves are breeders. One thing that’s stands is that it brings out the preppies…in droves! If you aren’t into horse races, go for the people watching. It’s like walking into a real-life Ralph Lauren advertisement. Everyone is dressed in their best chinos, bow-ties, dresses, boots, oxfords and blazers (click here to see our International Gold Cup inspired looks). It’s truly a a lifestyle. If you haven’t experienced it, I implore you to attend the VA Gold Cup Races in the Spring of 2013, it’s pretty amazing. However, in the meantime, check out our photos below of this years International Gold Cup Races.