Steeplechase had its origins in the first half of the 1800s as cross-country races in Ireland and the UK. The various obstacles are meant to mimic the hazards one might encounter in such a race going town to town. Steeplechase soon caught on in France, too. The Gras Savoye Grand Steeple-Chase de Paris is the most prestigious steeplechase race in France, with the largest purse (850,000 euros). It’s run at the Auteuil racecourse and is quite a cultural phenomenon. With an advance coupon, entry is free and all sorts of people turn up. It is great to see a broad range of people taking advantage of this, sharing the fun. The true “horse people” get all dressed up, the ladies wearing great hats!