The Hunt: It's a Jersey Thing

In Northern New Jersey, last Saturday was a very special day and that was the running of the Far Hills Races. Celebrating its 90th year, the Far Hills Races, known locally as "The Hunt," because of its early history as a fox hunt, takes place every October on Moorland Farms in Far Hills, New Jersey, in the beautiful Somerset Hills. Because of its convenient location in New Jersey off I-287, easy access to New York City via train and its historical tradition, nearly 50,000 people come out for the steeplechase horse race. While the races are an attraction, it's also the parties that attract people to Moorland Farms. They set up tailgate parties/picnics on the grounds, and some of these parties, especially the corporate affairs in the hilltop tents, are quite the sight to see. It's a great tradition and a nice day to catch up with family and friends, as well as participate in reunions. And in the end, proceeds from the races are donated to the Somerset Medical Center, specifically, the Steeplechase Cancer Center.

If you find yourself in New Jersey in late October, I highly recommend attending the Far Hills Races at least once. It's definitely an experience everyone should have at least once in a lifetime!