Hundreds of students will flock to the Foxfield Races tomorrow from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. An almost 50-year-old tradition, the steeplechase race is hosted every spring and fall — the closest Charlottesville gets to hosting its very own Kentucky Derby. The races are located at 2215 Foxfield Track, a roughly 15-minute drive from Central Grounds. Every year, students arrive in droves to watch the horses, bask in the sun and hang out with friends before finals and summer vacation. Whether or not you’ve attended this event before, here are some tips for Foxfield before you’re off to the races.
1. This might seem obvious, but buy a ticket
While some students may dress for and treat Foxfield like a Virginia football game, a student ID won't be enough to get you through the gates this time. Attendees need to buy tickets, which will be offered online through the day of the race. These color-coded tickets vary by section, allowing you to be closer to the race course if you want. Individual tickets are $65, so you should make sure some of your friends are going before committing.
2. Prepare for inclement weather
Even if it rains, the show will go on — the weather app is only a quick tap away, and it could save you from walking unexpectedly into a miserable, cold and wet day. You do not want to waste the money you spent on the ticket — and no refunds are offered — so check the weather and prepare for any scenario. Whether this means bringing a raincoat, wearing different shoes or choosing long pants, you would rather be safe than sorry at an eight-hour outdoor event like Foxfield — although you will only be watching the horses race for about five minutes.
3. Stay hydrated — with water, of course
Whether or not it rains, you will most likely be standing out for quite some time and sweating in the late April heat, so make sure to hydrate before you get to Foxfield. Dehydration can happen in the blink of an eye, turning your day from one filled with fun to a blurry-eyed fever dream. You can buy water at vending machines at the event, but it costs a few dollars and the line can grow long, so you should definitely drink up beforehand.
4. Don’t spend all your money on a slice of pizza
Chances are, you will get hungry before the races even start, so make sure to eat a hearty breakfast — something filled with protein, such as eggs or peanut butter, will keep you full and help you avoid low blood sugar. Typically, at large events like Foxfield, the food can be overpriced and small-portioned, but you can try to grab a bite at nearby restaurants. If you want a sandwich spot that fits the racehorse theme, you can check out this deli close to the races.
5. No snakes in these boots
I don’t know about you, but just thinking about standing all day makes me want to rest my feet and never walk again. While heels or dress shoes would make for a stylish touch, ankle boots and sneakers are comfortable options for this outdoor event. Cowboy boots are also a hit at the races, so there’s no better time to get them dirty one last time this semester. If you are not sure what to wear, the Foxfield website also offers some fashion advice — anything flies, but you will most likely see your classmates in dresses, khakis, ties, button downs or skirts. It doesn’t hurt to add a bright spring hue or a fun hat to make this local event feel like one of the Triple Crown races.
6. Familiarize yourself with the color-coded ticket sections
Students typically stay in the orange section of the venue, but it is important to be knowledgeable about the other sections, especially if you’re planning on bringing your car for a tailgate. The orange section places you close to all a student might need, including food trucks, cabanas and a viewing area, but the Paddock section puts you right next to the parking lot, steward tower and finish line — not a bad view if you’re willing to pay the price of $415 for the second row or $445 to be by the rail.
7. Plan transportation and parking
The current parking fee at Foxfield is $55. If you want to avoid paying this fee, you might want to think about splitting an Uber with a friend or splitting the parking fee within a group of friends. Regardless, transportation should be a pre-race day decision to help to mitigate stress on race day. In my opinion, there is nothing worse than a parking fee, so I would try to avoid it at all costs.
8. Bring sunglasses, maybe a hat and definitely sunscreen
If it’s sunny out, and you’re taking pictures, squinting at the horses and just hanging out in grassy, shadeless areas, you’ll likely need sunglasses or a hat. Not only will these accessories shield you from the bright UV rays — they’ll also be the perfect addition to your springtime outfit. You do not want to join the sun’s Foxfield victim list this year, so make sure to wear sunscreen as well. Your skin and eyes will thank you at the end of the day. Plus, you wouldn’t want to kick off finals week with a debilitating sunburn.
9. Support local vendors at the races
Foxfield hosts two vendor sections on race day — food and retail. Food vendors are located in the orange section of the venue, while retail vendors are located in the Vendor Village, right next to the green section. In the past, food vendors have included the Gus Bus, Popitos Pizza and sliced. cake bar. Past retail vendors have sold clothes, trinkets and other homemade items, some of which are equestrian themed. If you have spare time on your hands, it would definitely be worth your while to walk over to either section to browse and buy an item or two.
10. Stick with your friends and have fun
The crowd can get rowdy on race day, and if you lose your group, it might be difficult to contact them over the phone. Plan out a buddy system to avoid getting separated and having to search for your friends. Foxfield is a beloved tradition that students have enjoyed for years — you’ll want to experience this energy while cheering with your people.
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