MDPP-A - Day at the Races, and Tailgate

Outing Leader: Phil Fabrizio 

Date: May 19, 2024

Event Times: Gates are open 10 AM until 7 PM, the event starts at 12 noon and runs to 6 PM.  Shuttle services are available from 9:45 AM to 6 PM.

Parking/Cost: Polo Grounds at 15598 Hughes Road $15 entry fee

Join Phil Fabrizio on Sunday, May 19, 2024, for a day at the races in Poolesville, MD.  It’s a tailgate for friends and associates at the Potomac Hunt Races.  He has purchased an outside rail pass that enables registrants close to the action, right on the track’s fence line.

The Potomac Hunt Races is an annual steeplechase race hosted in Poolesville, MD, just outside Washington, DC. Multiple races run throughout the day, and horses jump timber and brush fences.

It’s both a springtime tailgate and a photo opportunity to catch fast action.  I will be on hand to provide guidance, tricks of the trade in capturing action.  Also, there will be plenty of “derby hat” portrait moments.

The race is held at Bittersweet Field on Partnership Road in Poolesville.  The Polo Grounds at 15598 Hughes Road offers shuttle Pass and Reserved parking for $15, which is the entry fee.

The event is close to the Mckees-Besher Wildlife fields, famous for its summer Sunflowers, which many have visited in the past.

The class aspect of the event will be how to photograph a fast sporting event from different angles.  Our railside location provides steeplechase action, but you can walk the grounds taking street photography of dressed-up participants.  Phil will also provide a crash course on the pre-editing of PhotoMechanic software.

What to bring: 

It’s a photographic tailgate.  A sharp eye and fast camera with long lens, such as a 70-200mm zoom, or long prime lens 85 or 135mm will do.  Longer prime/zoom lens only work on straightaways.  Phil will supply a laptop, display unit and storage device for those that want to share their best shots of the day.

It's a tailgate.  Bring only what you can carry in/out. Phil will have ice and water for all.  Derby hats, khaki’s, sunscreen, shorts, muck shoes or boots (yes, there can be horse poop) and sunglasses.  Think dress your best, it’s a horse show!

* Register for this event by 5/17/24.

Check out their website here for more information.  https://potomachuntraces.net

Phil Fabrizio