Steeplechase

Steeplechasing, popularly known as jump racing, is a Thoroughbred racing sport that has been steadily growing over the past several years. In 2016, races sanctioned by the National Steeplechase Association offered record purses exceeding $6 million. Steeplechase differs from flat racing in several regards. First, the distances of the races are longer, with the jump races varying in length from two miles to four miles, all on turf courses. Also, the horses generally are older. Steeplechase horses tend to specialize in either hurdle races, over artificial brush fences, or in timber racing over post-and-rail fences. Many steeplechase horses had careers on the flat, and a sizable number of horses are imported with overseas jump-racing experience.

Steeplechase racing is featured each  summer at racetracks such as Saratoga Race Course, but most races are held at approximately 30 weekend race meets in the spring and summer. Steeplechase meets are major social and sporting events in their communities and attract large crowds. A few meets attract crowds exceeding 70,000 in a season extending from late March through mid-November. Most race meets are charitable events, and they have contributed millions of dollars to their communities.

To find out more about steeplechasing, visit the National Steeplechase Association's website, www.nationalsteeplechase.com, or explore the websites of the race meets listed below.