Have you ever done Point-to-Point? Give it a shot.
This year’s event is set for Sunday, May 2. And this particular event—Winterthur’s 32nd—is a good one to make. Staffers are trying out a few new things. Wells Fargo is bringing its antique stagecoach, for one. Also, the museum is offering the new Picture Point-to-Point photo contest. The ace photographer wins a tailgate parking space for next year’s event. (That’s called smart marketing, folks. Winterthur wants you lined up for next year.)
This year celebrates the return of the Point-to-Point commemorative poster. The art by Jean Diver features jockeys Chip Miller and Jody Petty. Sitting in the marketplace area will be author and veterinarian Dr. Marcia Thibeault, who will autograph (and sell) her two books, “ I Make Horse Calls,” and “More Horse Calls.” Love the titles, Doctor.
As usual, the event features an antique carriage parade, the Kids Corral, and the Winterthur Hunt. The hunt, which always entertains the kids and gives adults a break, allows for treasure hunting across the grounds. Kids get a map and a saddle bag to store discoveries. Canine Capers is back, with its doggie obstacle course, so bring the pets. Stick horse races give the smallest jockeys a chance to race. Three groups for ages 4 and under, 5-7, and 8-10 offer winners in each age category the chance to leave with a commemorative medal. (I have seen adults try this when their kids stumbled. Here’s some advice: Don’t.)
Point-to-Point is a National Steeplechase Association-sanctioned race event, featuring a series of four races during the day. General admission wristbands cost $50. Children under 12 are free this year, but must have a wristband.
Contact info: winterthur.org/ptp, or 888-4994.
Point-to-Point happens rain or shine. Wear a hat—all the stylish ladies do. And who knows? Maybe Martha Stewart will show up again, like she did a few years back.
Here’s a rundown of Race Day Activities, courtesy of our friends at Winterthur Museum & Country Estate.
Sunday, May 2
10:30 a.m. Gates open for Tailgate Parking
11:30 a.m. Gates open for General Admission
You Bet! Race Raffle begins
Marketplace opens
Kids Corral opens
Winterthur Hunt
Canine Capers
11:45 a.m. Delaware Law Enforcement Pipe Band
Noon Alison Hershbell Pony Races
Parade of River Hills Foxhounds
1 p.m. Parade of Antique Carriages
1:30 p.m. Tailgate Picnic Competition Award Presented
2 p.m. Isabella du Pont Sharp Memorial: Maiden Timber Race—$10,000 purse
2:30 p.m. Winterthur Bowl: Open Timber Race—$17,500 purse
3 p.m. Vicmead Plate: Amateur Highweight Timber Race—$5,000 purse
3:30 p.m. Middletown Cup: Training Flat Race
3:45 p.m. Presentation of the Greta Brown Layton Trophy
4 p.m. Gates close
Stick Horse Races
1:30 p.m.: ages 4 and under
2:15 p.m.: ages 5–7
2:45 p.m.: ages 8–10
