NC Easter Weekend Events: Tryon's 65th Block House Steeple Chase and Block House Bash

April 22 at 6:30 PM 2011 Block House Bash:  Jennifer Breaux Howe's painting, The Run, will be available for auction along with an unique opportunity to go behind the scenes with the riders, owners and trainers on race day. This package includes viewing stand credentials, parking pass, two meal tickets in the Tryon Riding and Hunt Club Hospitality tent, and a course walk with the 2010 Carolina First Block House Feature race winner, Richard Boucher. The Event includes Heavy hors d'oeuvres and Cocktails and is located at the Depot Room in Tryon NC. $50 per person, reservations required (deadline April 18) 828-859-6109

April 23  65th Block House Steeple Chase  ushers in spring with picnics, sundresses, elegant hats, tailgating and the excitement of thoroughbreds thundering on the track. The Block House is the longest running steeplechase in the state of North Carolina occurring continuously since 1947. 18,000 to 20,000 people attend the Block House Races annually.  The National Steeplechase Association sanctions four of the races with total purses reaching $65,000.

An amateur division showcasing local jockeys takes place after the Carolina First Block House Cup feature race. The day also includes a varied, equestrian learning experience from Carolina Carriage Club as well as Paso Fino demonstrations to the Old Tryon Foot Beagles and Green Creek Hounds. Tickets may be purchased online, over the phone @ 828-859-6109, with a credit card or print the order form and mail, 289 S. Trade St. Tryon NC 28782, or fax, 828-859-5598, to the TR&HC office.