Horsin' around: Crowds converge on Montpelier Hunt Races

When it comes to steeplechase races, Foxfield, held twice a year since 1978, may be the best known around Charlottesville. But the Montpelier Hunt Races, held the first Saturday in November at the historic estate of President James Madison, have a much longer tradition, dating back to 1934 when Marion DuPont Scott held the first event on the front lawn of the Orange County home her father purchased in 1901. On Saturday, November 3, thousands descended on the scenic estate, located about 30 minutes north of Charlottesville, for tailgating, kiddie fun, and, of course, horse racing.