The 48th Running of the Aiken Spring Steeplechase was well attended this year on March 22, 2014, in spite of the increased entry fees. The weather was picture perfect, with some of the tail gate parties on the "extravagant" side. The Carriage Parade was a big hit as usual, Aiken Hounds had a wonderful demonstration with a gallop around the track. The National Steeplechase Association assured Safety as a top priority, and there were no fatal accidents. There is no denying, that a steeplechase jockey is a member of an exclusive group that has to be athletic, alert, and somewhat of a daredevil.
This was well illustrated in Race Number 4, The Ford D. Conger, sponsored by the Aiken Steeplechase Association. Jockey Roddy Mackenzie took a tumble aboard GGGAL, owned by John C Griggs and trained by Dave Washer. He reported via e-mail that he was ok. Another day at the races.................... These guys are made of steel!
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This article is copyrighted and first appeared on the Aiken Equestrian Calendar of Aiken website. It is reprinted here by permission.
