Since 1984, the Steeplechase at Callaway Gardens has raised more than 4 million dollars for six major arts organizations in Columbus, Ga. The annual event (taking place on November 2 this year) has become a tradition for many families. Attendees return for the gorgeous setting, the opportunity to watch some of the top horses and jockeys from the National Steeplechase Association, and yes — for the fun that happens on Race Day every year.
But how exactly does attending a horse race benefit the arts? Where does that ticket money go? How does bidding in an auction in November actually impact local schools the following March?
After nearly a decade of working to promote Steeplechase's role in advancing the arts in the Chattahoochee Valley, our team has come to realize that the actual impact of Steeplechase can get lost in the excitement of Race Day.
Though it's one of our very favorite days of the year (for many reasons), it's important to us that you, our audience, understand why we're passionate about supporting our annual Race for the Arts every single year.
So, if you're on the fence... here's why we believe supporting Steeplechase is essential to the future of the arts in our community, and why we at The Columbusite will continue to invest in its mission and impact for as long as possible.
2024 Steeplechase Race Day Art by local artist Garry Pound.
1) The Beneficiaries
Steeplechase supports the following six non-profit organizations:
These organizations were chosen as beneficiaries because they provide the heart of Columbus, Ga.'s arts & culture offerings every year. If you've spent any amount of time in our community, there's a solid chance you've been impacted by one or more of these organizations personally.
If not, we invite you to seek them out and learn more about what they do! Steeplechase is a wonderful opportunity to encounter all six of them for the first time. Most hae members of their staff on site at Race Day who will happily answer any questions you may have about the important way Steeplechase continues to support their programming each year.
2) The Financial Structure
In 1984, when Mason Lampton decided to Race for the Arts, it was important to him and his family that the funds raised support whatever needs the beneficiaries had at the time. The funds received are important, but they're even more impactful because they are unrestricted. This means each beneficiary is allowed them to use them however necessary to best serve their organization's needs.
This structure is unusual in that large donations or grant funds for non-profits often come with restrictions that can hinder the way they are able to be utilized. Because Steeplechase does not dictate how and where Race Day funds must be applied, many of the beneficiaries are able to use them as additional annual funding toward their arts education initiatives for local children. Learn more about this here.
It's good to know that every dime spent on reservations, tables, auction items, and raffle tickets goes directly back into providing a more secure future for the arts (and arts education/accessibility) in our community.
3) The Races, Horses, and Athletes Involved
For those interested in the sport, it's important to know that many of the top horses and jockeys from the National Steeplechase Association travel to race at Steeplechase every year.
4) The Auction & Raffle
When it comes to local events, the annual Steeplechase auction is known for having some of the best prizes around. Expect to see the work of local artists, options to bid on custom & luxury experiences, and access to site-specific sponsor and vendor products.
Here's a list of this year's vendors:
Meg Harris
Southern Point Co.
Jade Tamaski Art
Sketchy Betch
Mary Kendig
Libbie Rothschild Sculpture
Common Link Jewelry
Tattered Brim
ShopSissy Boutique
5) The Fun
This year's Race Day schedule is packed FULL of all of the fun events that Steeplechase is known for. Here's a sneak peek at some of what's available for Race Day this year.
Souvenir Tent
Silent Auction Tent
Vendor Village
Blade & Bow Pavilion
Atholl Highlanders Bagpipes and Drums
Midland Foxhounds Parade and Game
Lampton Bronze Award Presentation
Jack Russell Terrier Races
Steeplechase Hat Contest
And more!
Excited to attend? Here are the details...
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