And they’re off and running to celebrate the arrival of spring in Tryon and to honor its vibrant horse heritage dating back to 1917, with an “influencer” as he would be known today, Carter Brown. Arriving from Michigan, he opened the Pine Crest Inn, where northerners could spend their winters on horseback or playing golf. An avid horseman, and visionary, Carter Brown founded the Tryon Riding and Hunt Club in 1925, started a fox hunt in 1926, facilitated the Tryon Horse Show, and started the Block House Steeplechase event in 1934. His commitment, energy and enthusiasm for the sport is reflected in the myriad equestrian events that continue in Tryon today.
Rider Up!
The tradition and excitement of horse heritage continues at Harmon Field, as riders get ready to compete in the Blue Ridge Hunter Jumper Association’s March 18-20 show. Need a break from the excitement? Downtown Tryon is just minutes away from Harmon Field – enjoy a stroll through downtown, browse the shops and art galleries, and stop for ice-cream and other refreshments. It’s going to be a super weekend! See you there!
Speaking of super weekends – let’s take it up a notch or two or three! Get ready to cheer for those riders who are getting ready to bravely saddle up for the 74th running of the Block House Steeplechase on April 16th, 2022. Hosted by the Tryon International Equestrian Center & Resort (TIEC) this historic steeplechase of Tryon Riding and Hunt Club (TRHC) is a family friendly event and will feature fun festivities such as the children’s stick horse races, the best hat contest, tailgate parties, and much, much more! For information and ticket sales visit tryon.com.
Loved the Steeplechase? What’s next? Glad you asked! Horses, Hounds and Champagne? Join the fun on April 23-24 at the Foothills Equestrian Nature Center where over a dozen hounds will be presented for judging. Horse show events include a day of hunter derbies on Sunday and a Mini-Morris Derby! Too much excitement? Relax with a champagne brunch and enjoy the spectacular mountain views! For information visit the Harmon Classics website for more details.
A Trifecta of a Weekend!
Let’s finish off this horse inspired weekend with a first-class journey through the Tryon Foothills wine country. Tryon is home to several outstanding wineries all within an easy 15 minute drive from the Tryon International Equestrian Center, Harmon Field and downtown Tyron. Curated wine tours, and barrel tastings with the winemakers, are offered by Van in Black, the premier wine tour company of the Carolinas! So, just sit back and sip, enjoy the views, warm up by the fire, watch the sun set over the foothills, and enjoy all life has to offer. See you soon!
Cheers!
Quel programme! See you there