Jockey Club Party fuels the fire for Race Day

The pre-game

Published On: May 27, 2010

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“I learned a long time ago, if you want to get everyone to be quiet you just say, ‘Let us pray,’” Lee Ann Ingram wisely said after her opening “blessing” at the new pre-Steeplechase Jockey Club party. And thank God Lee Ann was smart enough to figure out how to shush this festive crowd; otherwise, Mac Hardcastle never would have been able to auction off all his jockeys.

“I am not auctioning underwear,” he stressed to the crowd. No, Mac was doing that voodoo he do so well—selling the riders to the equestrian-loving crowd. That boy should either work at Sotheby’s or L.A.’s Improv—he sure can keep the ball rolling on high-end auction items with some serious wit. Mac’s got skills.

This new event, which replaced the black-tie Hunt Ball at Belle Meade, took place in the Paddock Club on Steeplechase grounds. Party planners couldn’t have wished for a lovelier evening with a gentle breeze wafting through the open air tent and a light mist keeping everything cool. There was buzz and energy amongst these party-goers—as if they were going to be racing the next day rather than the horses and jockeys.

There was lots to talk about and lots to do, including purchase jewelry from the talented Judith Bright, assisted by her model/co-worker Ashley Clapp. Her delicate artwork was not only affordable but also philanthropic as a portion of the proceeds benefited the Monroe Carell, Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt.

Now while you might think that this evening would be low-key and calm, it wasn’t. It was proof positive that Steeplechase weekend truly is an entire weekend of festivities. We like that. And no one ever would have guessed that less than 12 hours later, this tent would be turned over into an elegant Tiffany Blue, jewel box-themed affair. Hey, it’s the magic of the Iroquois. EN

—photographs by
sinclair kelly