The Far Hills Race Meeting Association (FHRMA) and RWJUH Somerset in Somerville have officially opened the stage for its “Oh, Say Can You Sing?” national anthem contest. The search is on for a vocalist to perform “The Star-Spangled Banner” at the 105th running of the nation’s premier steeplechase event on October 17.
This year’s competition carries special significance as it coincides with the America 250 celebrations. Beyond the patriotic milestone, the contest is deeply rooted in the event’s historic commitment to health care.
In a moving tribute to the resilience of the human spirit, the FHRMA is specifically seeking applicants who have a personal connection to cancer. Whether a survivor, someone currently battling the disease, or a loved one singing in memory of a family member, the contest aims to highlight the stories of courage behind the voices.
“Oh, Say Can You Sing? is about more than a singing competition—it’s a tribute to the courage, resilience, and sacrifice behind every cancer journey,” Ron Kennedy, chairman of the FHRMA said.
Singers aged 16 and older from New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania are invited to apply.
- June 1: Deadline for initial video submissions.
- June 25: Finalists will perform live at the Steeplechase Cancer Center at RWJUH Somerset in Somerville, NJ.
- October 17: The winner will perform at the 105th Running of the Hunt at Moorland Farm.
How to Enter: Applicants can submit their auditions at farhillsrace.org/oh-say-can-you-sing/.
The Far Hills Race Meeting is far more than a social highlight of the New Jersey fall season; it is a massive philanthropic engine. Since its inception, the event has raised over $22 million for local health care.
The association’s partnership with Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital (RWJUH) Somerset has been transformative. In 2025, the FHRMA committed an additional $1.25 million to the Oncology Patient Assistance Fund, ensuring that patients facing financial hardship can still access world-class treatment.
“The Far Hills Race Meeting Association is our hospital’s most generous benefactor,” Deirdre Blaus, chief administrative officer at RWJUH Somerset said. “We look forward to hearing the contestants’ heartfelt stories and powerful voices.”
The 105th Running of the Hunt, sponsored by Open Road Auto Group, remains the richest steeplechase event in the United States. In addition to the premier racing and pari-mutuel wagering, the event supports five major beneficiaries this year, including Crossroads4Hope, Community in Crisis, LifeCamp, and Bonnie Brae.
For tickets and additional information, visit www.farhillsrace.org.
