Charlotte #1 Place to Live

Charlotte Dethrones Asheville

I moved here 13 years ago with no job and a couch to sleep on in my aunt & uncle’s house.  Now I am raising a family and running a successful business in what is in my opinion the best city in America!

Beginning today, our own US National Whitewater Center hosts a 3-day event at their exciting facility.  And they’re not just hosting one event – that would be too easy – they are hosting 3 separate events!  First and foremost is the 2008 US National Olympic Team Trials.  15 athletes will be selected for the US National Team, with 5 going on to compete in Bejing at the Olympics!  Second, is the 2008 Canadian Olympic Team Trials.  And third, is the 2008 Pan American Slalom Championships and Olympic Qualifier.  Whew!  That’s a lot of whitewater and a lot of fun.  There is an entry fee for these events.  For more information, visit  USNWC.org.  Take it outside!

Second up for this weekend on Saturday is the Queen’s Cup Steeplechase in Mineral Springs, just outside of Waxhaw.  This annual (last Saturday in April) event draws tens of thousands of spectators and tailgaters all eager to watch incredible horses and jockeys compete over brush and timber jumps at a full gallop.  Tailgate spaces usually sell out, but the enormous infield can hold an infinite number people with room to spare.  Races start around 1pm and last until around 4:30.  A party for everyone near the finish line includes live music and food – and costs nothing – a perfect way to end the day.  Besides the races, there are numerous attractions for kids and adults alike.  Early tickets can be purchased at Harris Teeter.  For more information, visit QueensCup.org.  Each year, the Queen’s Cup proceeds benefit a regional charity.  This year, that charity is Make-A-Wish.  We’ll be there as usual – stop by Withers 46 & 47 and say hi – we’ll save a Mimosa for you!

On Sunday evening, at Bobcats – excuse me – Time Warner Cable Arena – Bruuuuce!  The one, the only, The Boss!  Sadly, the recent death of keyboardist Danny Federici will certainly be felt, but Bruce never fails to inspire and impress even the most jaded concert goers.  It should be a night to remember for all.  What a great way to end the weekend.

And then on Monday, the Wachovia Championship Golf Tournament begins at Quail Hollow Country Club.  The best part of the tournament is that you can bring your camera on Monday, Tuesday, & Wednesday!  It’s a great chance to get up close to the pros.  For ticket information, visit  WachoviaChampionship.com. 

With all of that going on – no one can claim to be bored in the upcoming days.  I’m going to need a weekend to recover from the weekend!  Have fun everyone and report back on your experiences! 

Steeplechase races are longer than traditional thoroughbred race (such as the Kentucky Derby), and are run over hurdles.  The Queen’s Cup is held at Brooklandwood on a beautiful course that contains some hills, affording spectators excellent views of the action.  There are six races on the card this year, with the final race a training race over no hurdles.

Tailgating is a tradition at steeplechase races.  Cars are parked around the track and in the infield while elaborate picnics are enjoyed by the patrons.  All tailgating spaces have been sold for 2007, but General Admission badges (required for anyone over the age of 12) are being sold at area Harris Teeter and McAllister’s Deli stores for $23.  General Admission allows you entry to the huge racecourse infield, where you can bring your own picnic and enjoy the day.  Races are held rain or shine, so pack accordingly.

If you’ve never been, you can expect a day of new experiences, with The Mecklenburg Hounds parading before the races, release of a raptor into the wild courtesy of the Carolina Raptor Center, terrier races, pony rides, and more.  Oh – and horse races too!  The fun begins at 10am when the course opens, and continues on with the steeplechase races ending around 4, and a party for all after the last race.

We’ll be there tailgating at Withers 46 & 47.  Stop by and say, "Hi!" – we’ll offer you a Mimosa and show you around.