The Manor Races 2022

Vintage Vinnie (#3), ridden by Teddy Davies, is holding tight with Renegade River (#4), ridden by Jamie Neild, over the 13th in the John D. Schapiro Memorial Steeplechase. I deliberately chose a slow shutter speed to capture the speed; I was asked today if the horses are racing or for show. And I wish I could bring everyone to see. Greatest spectator sport in the world.

Saturday April 16th was a warm respite in a cool Spring. A near-normal crowd joined the field of riders under the sun to enjoy the open air and races. It was a terrific day for the Davies family. Young Teddy Davies rode twice, and won twice, on horses trained by his family. The joy he showed, and was shown by his relatives, was energizing.

The weather held; it was warm enough for shorts and the storm was kept at bay. Showers began only as the cars left down the now dusty trails for the afternoon. By evening it was hailing in Baltimore’s Camden Yards, and my drive back to NYC was slowed by the rain. Blessed by circumstance!

Three years ago, it took a blizzard of emails to gain access to the races. Though I grew up in Northern Baltimore County, it was a stretch to say I knew many in the steeplechasing scene well. By the end of that season, I knew my way around. 2020 was a Covid-caused wash, and 2021 was a half-Covid year. But I was so glad to be back in the country amongst a group of people I was getting familiar with. In 2022, driving down Pocock Road, I was all smiles to arrive the Manor Races. The races aren’t just comfortable for me, they are comforting.

I am ever grateful for the generosity of the race sponsors, the patience of everyone as I swing my camera around, and the friendliness of all. There are certain people I see once or twice a year. I find them in the Maryland fields, they offer me shrimp salad and beer, smiles and catching up, and if I am being honest, a multitude of reasons to return. I am also every appreciative of the sport, the bravery of the riders, and the knowledge of the immense amout of time, effort, and resources put behind by the trainers, farmhands, and families who support it all.

Above, the Fourth Fence, a modest water hazard, in the 111th running of the My Lady’s Manor Steeplechase. Below, backstage as at the jockeys prepare, get weighed, and have the Race Director and Safety briefings.

Below, the same fence for the Second Race, the John Rush Memorial Steeplechase.

Below, the second to last hurdle, the 15th fence, on the third race, the Thomas H. Voss Memorial Steeplechase. In the final images, Eric Poretz, aboard So Sublime, nicks the fence and dismounts without incident.

The end of the day. The dressing room, the map, and the silks hanging in a classic Land Rover Defender. A great afternoon by any measure.

Many thanks to all!

Alex