four in the afternoon
They made the occasion a holiday . Many came on horseback and by team , and families brought well-filled baskets of fried chicken , corn pone , blackberry pie , and other good things to refresh the inner man . A number of minor races were run by horses in harness and under the saddle , which only increased the people 's appetite for the grand event of the day . At four in the afternoon the three horses were called for the two-mile race . Their riders soon brought them from their stalls to a position in front of the grand stand and judges . The steeds were all in perfect condition , their glossy coats shining with bright luster in the afternoon sun . The horses seemed to feel the meaning of the occasion .