Side saddle was once the only “proper” way for a lady to ride. So, ride sideways she did - whether hunting, racing, or showing, while her male counterparts rode astride, ladies of that time managed it all - aside.
With the women’s suffrage movement in the early 20th century, more women started putting a leg on either side of the horse, until eventually after World War II women riding “sideways” became a rarity rather than the rule.
But the elegance and grace of has been missed, and thanks in part to social media, the success of period hits like “Downton Abbey,” and England’s annual Dianas of the Chase race, side saddle is making a come back.
We all know how well Downton Abbey's Lady Mary takes on a challenge, and as you can see from the images below, the Dianas' can also keep up with the boys!
But why should the English have all the fun?! The tradition of side saddle chase hasn't been seen in America since the 1930's, but, it will make a grand return here in Hunt Country with the inaugural running of the Mrs. George C. Everhart Memorial Invitational Side Saddle Chase debut at the 49th annual Loudoun Hunt Point-to-Point Races April 12, at the historic Oatlands Plantation.
"This groundbreaking event brings a new dimension to steeplechase racing because it speaks to the foundation of the sport,” said Donna Rogers, Master of Foxhounds of the Loudoun Fairfax Hunt. “We are delighted to host the inaugural race, which I think will become a popular new tradition and do much to spur interest in riding aside, steeplechase racing, foxhunting and land conservation in Virginia.”
Organizers of the event, Maggie Johnston (jumping below) and Devon Zebrovious (pictured above) actually decided to hold the first U.S. race after being inspired by the Dianas' race organizers during a side-saddle hunting trip to Ireland in 2013.
“We hope to rekindle the excitement and glamour of this traditional discipline for today’s riders and spectators of all ages,” said Zebrovious. Johnston adds, "With our proper side saddle riding habits and backdrop of Oatlands' beautiful property, our race will look at feel very similar to what Downton Abbey viewers have seen on the series.”
The images below were taken onsite at Greenhill Winery and Vineyards, the premier race sponsor. Greenhill will award ribbons for first through sixth place, provide the signature jump, and sponsor a prize for the Best Turned Out pair (horse and rider). Other sponsors include: the Gable family, who will award a perpetual trophy to the winning rider and horse; Salamander Resort and Spa, who are providing in-kind food sponsorship; and Noel Asmar Equestrian, who have donated an All Weather Jacket, which features apron-like styling popular with women who ride aside, to the winner of the race.
A Downton Abbey addict myself, the romance and nostalgia of the series has always given me goose bumps. But, I think the Abbey may have met its match with these dedicated women. So very gorgeous and impressive! I can not wait to attend the race!
Riders: take note, the race is still open. You must attend a mandatory training session held by Eva Smithwick, one of the leading trainers on the Virginia point-to-point racing circuit, at her Sunnybank Farm in Middleburg in late March.
Of course, if you're like me and prefer to participate via tailgate, the Loudoun races are a highlight of both the spring racing calendar and the northern Virginia social scene. Make sure you are among the thousands of spectators and tailgaters coming out to enjoy a full card of races and tailgating.
We'll see you at Oatland's Plantation, April 12th. The Side Saddle Chase is the first race of the day, and will start promptly at noon.
Special thanks to Maggie Johnston and Devon Zebrovious, event organizers for providing the fabulous details of this post and to Middleburg Photo for the gorgeous images of our Loudoun Hunt aside riders on the lovely grounds of Greenhill Vineyards.
