An Irish Steeplechase
01 May 2012We spent Sunday afternoon at the local Steeplechase
a horse race dripping in history
which is run from one point
to another point
over fences and hills
in the raw Irish countryside…
We were in awe of the young, powerful thoroughbreds
crashing over fences woven with willow branches
…leaving dust in their wake,
and struck by such stunning beauty in the strength and condition of maiden horses
As for the spectators,
there were some very serious betters
with some serious bookmakers at their disposal…
Onlookers of the canine variety were welcomed as well.
We admired colourful jockeys
gathered together before each race,
and spotted the lone female rider
all dressed in white.
Cups of hot whiskey
with lemon, sugar and cloves
were sipped by many
for warming protection
from the brisk, stirring wind
that accompanied the afternoon sun.
Unforgettable.
Slan Abhaile,
Imen
Photos by Imen McDonnell 2012.
Tags: country life, farm, farmer, Farming, food, foodie, foodies, Horse, hot whiskey, I Married An Irish Farmer, Imen McDonnell, ireland, Irish, Irish country living, irish farmer, Irish food photography, married an irishman, Point to Point, Racing, steeplechase