The Master’s Chase races at Natirar on Main Street in Peapack & Gladstone are back on Oct. 9 after a year off due to Covid.
The event’s roots are in the cherished local tradition of steeplechasing in the Somerset Hills. Although the modern landscape means riders can’t race steeple-to-steeple, the afternoon will feature a full schedule of amateur horse racing and countryside sport.
Part of the Weekend in Gladstone festivities, the event benefits the Countryside Alliance of Somerset Hills, a 501c3 formed with a mission to perpetuate an understanding of the country way of life, maintaining and preserving the history and traditions of hunting with hounds and horses in the Somerset Hills, and to educate the public on the proper care of horses and hounds.
It’s a great tailgating occasion at the Somerset County park, with the action including relays, flat and jumping races, as well as a leadline race and stick pony races for children and adults. The fun starts at noon when the gates open, with the competition beginning at 2 p.m.
For more information and to reserve tailgating spaces, go to www.essexfoxhounds.org, or call Karen Murphy at (908) 727-0222.