Some races in National Hunt racing are named ‘Chases,’ while others are called ‘Hurdles.’ However, the infrequent visitor to the racecourse might not be aware of the distinction, but if you are betting on a Steeplechase or Hurdle race, it would be important to recognize the difference.
What is the Difference between Steeplechasing and Hurdles – A hurdle race is one in which horses leap over hurdles, while a chase is short for steeplechase, in which horses gallop over obstacles. Hurdles are smaller items since they must be at least three and a half feet high, while fences must be at least four and a half feet high. Many horses may compete in hurdles first, then go on to fences since chases are generally the more difficult confrontations.
The phrase “steeplechase” is used differently in different nations nowadays. In Ireland and the United Kingdom, it solely refers to races over huge, permanent barriers, as opposed to “hurdle” races over considerably smaller obstacles. When referring to steeplechases and hurdle races as a group, the phrase “jump racing” or “National Hunt racing” is used, and it is important to note that National Hunt racing also includes certain flat races.
Steeplechasing vs Hurdles- the Early Years
The term comes from early races in which the route was orientated by reference to a church steeple, leaping fences and ditches, and generally navigating the numerous intervening obstacles in the countryside. The steeplechase began in Ireland in the 18th century as a cross-country thoroughbred horse race that ran from church steeple to church steeple, thus the name “steeplechase.”
The first steeplechase is reported to have occurred in 1752 as a result of a wager between Cornelius O’Callaghan and Edmund Blake, who raced four miles (6.4 km) cross-country from St John’s Church in Buttevant to St Mary’s Church (Church of Ireland) in Doneraile, Cork, Ireland.
Most early steeplechases were run cross-country rather than on a track and resembled modern English cross country. The first recorded steeplechase over a prepared track with fences was run at Bedford in 1810, though a race over a mile (1600 m) with five-foot (1.5 m) bars every quarter mile. These types of races are still run today but are more commonly referred to as point-to-point races, and remain one of the most anticipated spectacles on the horse racing calendar.
A Fence (Steeplechase) vs A Hurdle
A hurdle is often composed of brushes and has some elasticity, allowing horses to finish the race more easily. Fences are taller and demand a strong jumping technique, thus there is a greater chance of a horse falling.
So you should constantly be aware of the kind of race you’re betting on, and if a horse has never raced over fences before, you should consider that. The Grand National and the Cheltenham Gold Cup, two of the most prestigious races in the world, are both chases run over fences. Hurdle races generally feature faster and younger horses, while chase events emphasize endurance and leaping, however, two-mile races are regularly included in both disciplines.
More drama, surprises, and against-the-odds moments have occurred as a result of the barriers (in both disciplines) than any other aspect of the sport. One of the most exhilarating sights in racing is seeing your horse jump the last gate with a nose in front and race to the finish line.
Fences vs Hurdles – Metris and Aesthetics
Fences – Metrics and Aesthetics
- With a minimum height of 4ft 7in, this is the taller of the two obstacles.
- Erected in steeplechase events at 40 UK racetracks.
- Made from a spruce and birch wood blend
- The race distances vary from two to four and a half miles.
- Plain fences, open ditches, and water jumps are examples of obstacles.
- Ideal for horses that have learned over the hurdles and honed their jumping technique.
Hurdles – Metrics and Aesthetics
- With a minimum height of 3ft 6in, this is the smaller of the two obstacles.
- Hurdle races are held on 40 different racetracks in the United Kingdom.
- For better flexibility, it is made from little branches known as a brush.
- Races must have a minimum of eight hurdles over a distance of at least two miles.
- Ideal for Flat horses that are expanding into the National Hunt events.
Fences and Hurdles – Suitable Horses and Safety Concern
In National Hunt races, obstacles like hurdles and fences are included to give the horse and rider an extra challenge throughout the race. Horses who display good stamina traits in flat races but don’t have that extra burst of speed at the end of races may be more suited to hurdles and subsequently to fences as they become older.
Authorities have tried for many years to reduce the number of accidents caused by hurdles and barriers. Materials used are no longer as strong as they once were, and fences on several courses have been subsequently reduced in size.
The Best Steeplechase Races
The United Kingdom is home to the world’s two largest steeplechase events, run-over fences. The Grand National has been run for nearly 180 years, with 40 horses traversing 30 jumps. The event is well-known for delivering surprising victors who may defy the horse racing odds on the bookmakers’ boards.
The Cheltenham Gold Cup is the year’s most prestigious National Hunt event, being run this year from the 15th March to the 18th March at the iconic Cheltenham Racecourse. It is the ultimate challenge of stamina and speed and only the best of the best are accepted to run in the Feature races at Cheltenham Week.
The Champion Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival is perhaps the most renowned hurdle contest in the world. The event, which has been run since 1927, has a £250,000 winner’s stake cheque and has produced great horses throughout the years.
The buildup to Cheltenham Week is substantial, and the seasoned Punter and infrequent punter alike will find plenty of information on the important races across the festival on Sky Sports Racing as well a plethora of Online Racing Publications. Enjoy, have a bet, and possibly win big.