Return to Atlanta Hall...

The first Saturday in April marks the last of the local point-to-points before the "big three," the Elkridge-Harford Point-to-Point, held each year at Atlanta Hall Farm, in Monkton, Maryland. I've been to a number of races in Maryland, Virginia, and even South Carolina over the last 20 plus years. I still don't know what it is about this race which I like so much, but it's certainly a favorite. And that's saying a lot given how much I like the rest of the races in Maryland. 

As with last weekend at Green Spring, this is an early season race, so be prepared for cool, windy and/or wet weather. This at Green Spring had all those features and anyone who was there would agree dressing for the weather is paramount. But also be prepared for warm sunny and slightly breezy days. Dressing in layers is the key and I always head to all of the races with my Barbour and wellies in my car in case the weather requires them.

2013 Elkridge-Harford Point-to-Point

This race is not heavily advertised. As a matter of fact, one year, even aware of where I was headed, I drove right past Pocock Road and had to turn around. Either there was no sign even mentioning the races were being held that day or I was lost in the beauty of My Lady's Manor and missed the sign.

But what this race lacks in advertising, it makes up for in style and racing. The course has 15 timber fences, a combination of stacked, board, rail and coop, over about 3 miles. There is not one single place on the course where you can see everything, so you have to pick your spot on experience and the sort of racing day you wish to enjoy, though most seem to congregate at the finish line where a number of fences, some quite close, can been seen.

2013 Elkridge-Harford Point-to-Point

I should also note, that tailgating at both Green Spring and Elkridge-Harford are very casual informal affairs. That isn't to say they are pedestrian, just not over the top. Think classic, old fashioned tailgating.

Here at the Elkridge-Harford Point-to-Point, the vast majority of those in attendance, as at Green Spring, are either closely connecting with the hunt or racing, or they are fairly serious followers of the sport.

It might seem like, given the rather close distance between the Green Spring and Elkridge-Harford courses, that you'd see many of the same horses, but that is not the case. With so many races taking place this time of the year in Maryland, Pennsylvania and Virginia, very few in fact have come here directly from Green Spring. So for those who are looking to check out this years talent before they hit the "Big Three," this is another great chance to get a look before the really serious racing begins.

So pack a picnic, and bring your field glasses to Monkton this Saturday for some more amazing timber racing in Maryland!

Check out the Maryland Steeplechase Association website for more information:
http://www.marylandsteeplechasing.com/main/ehr/datetime.htm

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