On this episode of Soda City Living, I’m joined by Toby Edwards, Executive Director of the Carolina Cup Racing Association, the team behind the iconic Carolina Cup in the spring, the Colonial Cup in the fall, the National Steeplechase Museum, and a full-service Thoroughbred training center in Camden, South Carolina.

Toby takes us from his childhood in Dorset, England, to his racing years as a jockey and trainer, and into the leadership role he holds today. We dig into the rich history of both Cups, what race day actually feels like (from sun hats and bow ties to tweeds and Wellies), why the Colonial Cup is a Grade 1 $150,000 pinnacle of North American steeplechase, and how the races raise significant funds each year for health and wellness programs across Kershaw County.

Thinking about going? Toby shares exactly how to plan your first visit: arrive early, grab an infield tailgate spot, shop the vendor village, don’t miss the kids’ zone (free for 12 & under!), and yes…come for the Corgi races. We also talk about Camden’s race-week festivities. polo, tournaments, block parties and why this historic city just might steal your heart.

Highlights:

• The story behind the Carolina Cup (first run in 1930) and the Colonial Cup (launched in 1970)
• What to wear and how race day vibes differ between spring and fall
• Why the Colonial Cup draws top horses and shapes championship titles
• Family-friendly tips: tailgating, kids’ activities, and best ways to experience the day
• The Cups’ local impact: charitable giving to support uninsured/underinsured neighbors
• Internships and behind-the-scenes logistics of hosting 25,000+ guests

Episode sponsored by Andrea Reynolds, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Midlands.

I’m so excited to kick off the very first episode of Soda City Living with Nancy Smith, General Manager of the South Carolina State Fair.

In this conversation, Nancy shares her 41 years of memories at the Fair, from family traditions and candy apples to the behind-the-scenes teamwork that brings South Carolina’s biggest event to life. We talk about the Fair’s roots in agriculture, its scholarship program that has given back nearly $6 million to South Carolina students, and what makes the Fair such a special tradition for families across the state.

Nancy also gives us a preview of what’s new in 2025, including the “Harvesting Happiness” theme, an interactive SC250 Revolutionary War exhibit, a traveling Anne Frank experience, celebrity chef Sandra Lee’s appearance, new foods and rides, free circus shows, roving entertainers, and of course, fan favorites like pig races and the lumberjack show.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like behind the scenes at the State Fair, or you just want to plan your visit for the “12 happiest days of the year”, this episode has you covered.

Be sure to follow the podcast so you don’t miss future episodes.

Episode sponsored by Andrea Reynolds, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Midlands.

Welcome to Soda City Living: Life, Culture, and Community in Columbia & South Carolina! Hosted by Lisa Mustard, this podcast celebrates the people, places, and stories that make Columbia and South Carolina such a special place to call home.

In this short introduction, Lisa shares the vision for the show, why Columbia is often called “Soda City,” and what listeners can look forward to each week, from local business spotlights and cultural events to neighborhood highlights and hidden gems across the Palmetto State.

Whether you’ve lived in Columbia your whole life, just moved to South Carolina, or are curious about what makes this region unique, Soda City Living is your insider’s guide to life in the Capital City and beyond.

Be sure to follow or subscribe so you don’t miss upcoming episodes!

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