Grand National Steeplechase (New Zealand)

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Grand National Steeplechase (New Zealand)

The Grand National Steeplechase is a major turf jump race for thoroughbreds held at Riccarton Park Racecourse in Christchurch. The race is run on a left-handed track over 5,600 metres (about 3.5 miles) and is an open-weight handicap. The purse for 2025 is NZ$200,000.

The race is one of New Zealand’s longest and toughest tests for horse and rider, usually run in winter when the ground can be soft or heavy.

History highlights:
- First run in 1875 at Willowbridge, near Waimate, over about 4 miles.
- Since 1891 the distance has been 3.5 miles (5600 metres).
- Christchurch became the permanent venue in 1884; the Canterbury Jockey Club has organized it since 1888, and it has been at Riccarton ever since.
- There was no race in 2020 due to COVID-19.

In May 2025, it was announced that the 150th edition would be sponsored by Racecourse Hotel & Motor Lodge, with prize money of NZ$200,000. The land at Riccarton Park was vested in the Christchurch Racecourse Trustees in 1878, and the board supports celebrating the 150th running of this historic race.