History
The Sandhills area is noted for its wonderful golfing, moderate climate, lovely Longleaf Pines, and an ever-growing equine community. Part of the credit for this amazing growth in equine facilities and horse farms is due to the late Michael “Mickey” G. Walsh. This former Sandhills Irishman deserves to be commended, not for his “Irish luck,” but for his hard work, talent and the ongoing legacy he created for horse lovers, riders and race enthusiasts.
Mickey Walsh immigrated to the United States in 1925 at the age of 18 from Ireland. Walsh sought the “American Dream” of plentiful work and a better life, but the harsh reality in New York was that work was scarce, especially for Irishmen.
In 1926, Mickey Walsh began competing in “hunting” and “jumping,” both English riding equestrian events. By the 1930’s, Walsh was winning top honors at most of the horse shows of the day, both as a rider and a trainer. Walsh moved to Southern Pines, NC, in 1939 and there, he earned another outstanding equestrian reputation as a trainer of steeplechase and timber horses.
Having always worked for someone else, Mickey Walsh finally bought his own riding and training stable in Southern Pines in the late 1940’s with money that was earned through his hard work and a passion for horses. Thus, “Stoneybrook” was born - first as a training stable, then as a racetrack, and now as a legacy to Walsh and his ongoing Sandhills springtime steeplechase event.
Mickey Walsh passed away in 1993, and the fate of the Stoneybrook Steeplechase hung in the balance. Without its chief advocate, Walsh’s prized Stoneybrook land was sold for equine land development, and the racetrack closed in 1996. Even so, the demand for one of the Sandhills’ most beloved spring social events remained high. In 1998, a group of horse lovers developed the idea for the Carolina Horse Park and formed a nonprofit charitable foundation to preserve land for horses and to promote equestrian education, training and competition.
The Carolina Horse Park opened on 250 acres of land just south of Southern Pines in neighboring Hoke County, and in 2001, the Stoneybrook Steeplechase was revived at the new location with the 50th running of the race. 2011 saw the 60th running of the Stoneybrook Steeplechase at the Park. The landmark year brought with it record breaking crowds as over 8500 people watched nationally acclaimed horses, jockeys and trainers vie for over $50,000 in purse money. The Park ensures that Mickey Walsh's dream lives on at Stoneybrook.
Race Day Activities
Stoneybrook features an ever-growing array of activities for both children and adults. From the 5K/1K Run for the Ribbons to the traditional tailgate and hat contests to stick horse races, expansive Kid Zone, vendor area, beer tent and opening ceremonies, there is something for everyone. The first horse race typically starts at 1:30, but Stoneybrook spectators know that the day starts much earlier!
2012 Hawkins and Harkness Hat Contest Winners:
SHOW STOPPERS
First Place - Stephanie Womack of Vass, N.C.
Second Place - Jackie Emms of Southern Pines, N.C.
Third Place - Anna Masteller of Southern Pines, N.C.
CHILDREN UNDER 15
First Place - Mariela Benitez of Havelock, N.C.
Second Place - Leighton Blue of Fayetteville, N.C.
Third Place - Chloe Schweizer of Charlotte, N.C.
BREATH OF SPRING
First Place - Jamie Bluntz
Second Place - Sharon Stevens of Angier, N.C.
Third Place - Jenifer Kristen of Wilmington, N.C.
SPIRIT OF STONEYBROOK
First Place - Alyssa Schwartz of Vass, N.C.
Second Place - Grace McGrath of Fayetteville, N.C.
Third Place - Collie Ryder of Virginia
MOST CREATIVE
First Place - Megan Smosha of Rices Landing, Pa.
Second Place - Joanne Troll of Canton, Georgia
Third Place - Sarah Ramos of Southern Pines, N.C.
MOST ORIGINAL
First Place - Brad Rhodes of Whispering Pines, N.C.
Second Place - Tammy Miller of Fayettevile, N.C.
Third Place - Chris Demarchi of Apex, N.C
History
The Sandhills area is noted for its wonderful golfing, moderate climate, lovely Longleaf Pines, and an ever-growing equine community. Part of the credit for this amazing growth in equine facilities and horse farms is due to the late Michael “Mickey” G. Walsh. This former Sandhills Irishman deserves to be commended, not for his “Irish luck,” but for his hard work, talent and the ongoing legacy he created for horse lovers, riders and race enthusiasts.
Mickey Walsh immigrated to the United States in 1925 at the age of 18 from Ireland. Walsh sought the “American Dream” of plentiful work and a better life, but the harsh reality in New York was that work was scarce, especially for Irishmen.
In 1926, Mickey Walsh began competing in “hunting” and “jumping,” both English riding equestrian events. By the 1930’s, Walsh was winning top honors at most of the horse shows of the day, both as a rider and a trainer. Walsh moved to Southern Pines, NC, in 1939 and there, he earned another outstanding equestrian reputation as a trainer of steeplechase and timber horses.
Having always worked for someone else, Mickey Walsh finally bought his own riding and training stable in Southern Pines in the late 1940’s with money that was earned through his hard work and a passion for horses. Thus, “Stoneybrook” was born - first as a training stable, then as a racetrack, and now as a legacy to Walsh and his ongoing Sandhills springtime steeplechase event.
Mickey Walsh passed away in 1993, and the fate of the Stoneybrook Steeplechase hung in the balance. Without its chief advocate, Walsh’s prized Stoneybrook land was sold for equine land development, and the racetrack closed in 1996. Even so, the demand for one of the Sandhills’ most beloved spring social events remained high. In 1998, a group of horse lovers developed the idea for the Carolina Horse Park and formed a nonprofit charitable foundation to preserve land for horses and to promote equestrian education, training and competition.
The Carolina Horse Park opened on 250 acres of land just south of Southern Pines in neighboring Hoke County, and in 2001, the Stoneybrook Steeplechase was revived at the new location with the 50th running of the race. 2011 saw the 60th running of the Stoneybrook Steeplechase at the Park. The landmark year brought with it record breaking crowds as over 8500 people watched nationally acclaimed horses, jockeys and trainers vie for over $50,000 in purse money. The Park ensures that Mickey Walsh's dream lives on at Stoneybrook.
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Paddy Young hits his stride at this year's 60th Stoneybrook Steeplechase: As champion jockey in 2010, Young gears up for another successful year . . . Click here to read full article
Back to topFAQ
Will food be available for purchase at Stoneybrook?
Yes, a variety of food vendors are available at The Shops at Merchants Crossing. We encourage you to join in on the tailgating tradition at Stoneybrook. Bring a picnic and the beverages of your choice on race day and enjoy with family and friends.
May I bring my own tent?
NO. As a safety precaution, tents, canopies, tarps, and large umbrellas of any kind are not permitted. Tents are available for rent prior to March 18 through the Stoneybrook Office (910-875-2074).
Is there legalized gambling as part of the race meet?
The state of North Carolina does not have legalized para-mutual wagering.
What is the typical attire worn at the steeplechase races?
The Stoneybrook Steeplechase encourages all participants to dress as they feel comfortable. This is a day in the country to be enjoyed by all, so while you will see outfits and hats of all types, we suggest you do wear sensible shoes due to the turf and terrain.
May I bring a golf cart, gator, or other similar vehicle?
NO. As a safety precaution vehicles of this sort are not permitted.
May I bring a grill?
Gas grills are permitted, but charcoal or open flame grills are not allowed.
How do I purchase tickets?
You may call the Stoneybrook Ticket Office directly at the Carolina Horse Park, 910-875-2074 or purchase tickets on line at http://www.carolinahorsepark.com/stoneybrook/ticket-sales. Harris Teeter Grocery Stores located in Whispering Pines, Aberdeen, Fayetteville, and Lauringburg will be offering Stoneybrook General Admission Tickets at a 20% discount when purchased with a VIC Card at the Customer Service desk from March 6, 2012 through April 6, 2012.
Will I be refunded in the case of inclement weather?
The races are run rain or shine. Unfortunately, we are unable to make any refunds.
How large is a reserved parking space?
Spaces are approximately 10’ wide by 20’ deep. Please center your vehicle in your space. Nothing larger than an SUV will be allowed in the reserved parking area. No panel trucks, large passenger vans or minivans will be allowed (there are reserved spaces available for these vehicles).
How many people will fit comfortably in each reserved tailgate space?
As a courtesy to others, we recommend no more than 10-12 people plus a car occupies each reserved tailgate space.
What are the fire lanes?
The fire lanes are the lanes that are between each row of tailgate spaces. These are the same lanes that you will drive down to get to your space. As both a courtesy to others and to comply with Hoke County fire codes, please do not leave any part of your vehicle extending passed your tailgate space into the fire lane.
May I use a trailer to bring all of my items into my tailgate space?
Yes, trailers will be permitted from 9:30-10:00 am for unloading. All trailers must be parked in the general admission lot for the duration of the day.
Are children admitted free of charge?
Yes, children under the age of 12 are admitted free of charge when accompanied by an adult.
Is there are military discount?
Yes, there is a 20% discount for both active and retired military. Military ID is required to receive the discount. Tickers MUST be purchased in advance to receive discount. Tickets purchased on race day will not recieve discount.
May I bring my pet?
No, due to potential risk to spectators, riders and horses, pets of any kind are not allowed at the Stoneybrook Steeplechase.
May I bring a generator?
NO, because of the noise factor, generators are not permitted.
What are The Shops at Merchant’s Crossing?
Food, Stoneybrook logo wear, and a variety of specialty items can be found under the festive tents in the middle of the in-field.
When do the gates open and what is closing time?
Gates open at 9:30 AM and we ask that you be in your reserved parking space no later than 11 AM. Post time for the first race is 1:30 PM. The gates close at 6 PM.
Please call the Stoneybrook Ticket office at 910-875-2074 or email info@carolinahorsepark.com for additional information.
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