Horse Racing Chase Meaning: Jumps, Steeplechase & Facts
Horse racing in the UK is famous for its jumping action, yet terms like “chase” and “steeplechase” might blur together. Understanding the differences can make the sport easier to follow and give more context to what you see on race day.
This blog post introduces the basics of a chase, touches on steeplechases, looks at the types of horses involved, and explains some of the language you might hear. Later sections explore the season, famous races, and how trainers prepare horses.
Read on to learn more.
What Is a Chase in Horse Racing?
A chase is a type of jump race where horses tackle larger obstacles than those found in hurdle races. In National Hunt racing, several qualities are important—pace, stamina, and jumping ability all come into play.
Horses meet multiple fences during the race, aiming to keep a steady rhythm while moving at speed. These fences are usually bigger than hurdles, and the races might stretch over considerable distances, often from around two miles up to more than four.
In simple terms, any jump race over fences rather than hurdles is usually called a chase. But there’s a traditional term that overlaps—steeplechase.
What Is a Steeplechase Race?
The term steeplechase comes from historic races run across open countryside from one church steeple to another. Modern steeplechases take place on racecourses but still involve jumping fences over a set distance, testing a horse’s ability to cope with obstacles while moving strongly.
Courses may include different fence types, including plain fences, open ditches, or occasionally a water jump, each requiring a slightly different approach. Jockeys aim to keep their horse in a good stride and in the right position as the race develops.
Some horses take naturally to this challenge, while others need experience. This brings us to the types of runners that often appear in these races.
Which Horses Are Suited for Chase Racing?
Horses that race over fences are generally older and more physically mature. Many begin in hurdle races to gain experience with jumping and balance before moving on to fences. You may also hear the term novice chase for a horse in its first season over fences.
Physical size and strength help a horse tackle the larger obstacles without difficulty, while stamina allows them to complete longer courses. Temperament is also important—horses that stay composed in a crowd and follow their jockey’s cues often perform best.
Background and breeding may influence how quickly a horse adapts to fences. Those that have schooled extensively or come from point-to-point racing might find the transition easier.
What Are the Key Terms to Know in Chase Racing?
If you’re following a chase, you’ll notice commentators and racecards use a particular set of words again and again. These phrases may suggest how a race might unfold, the type of obstacles horses face, and even which runners may handle the course better. Understanding the vocabulary doesn’t just make the action easier to follow—it can help you appreciate the nuances of each contest, from the way a horse approaches an obstacle to how a course favours different styles of runner.
With that in mind, the next section looks at the key terms that appear most often when discussing fences, hurdles, and the layout of chase courses.
Fence, Hurdle, and Course Differences
Knowing a few terms makes watching races more understandable.
- Fence: The main obstacle in a chase, typically taller and sturdier than a hurdle. Some courses include variations, such as open ditches or water jumps, which require a slightly bolder jump.
- Hurdle: A smaller, more flexible obstacle, often used early in a horse’s jumping education. Hurdles allow horses to gain experience before tackling bigger fences.
- Chase course: Some racecourses have separate tracks for chases, with fences positioned differently depending on the venue. Certain layouts may suit nimble, forward-going horses, while others favour strong stayers.
Later, we’ll see how these fences play a role in famous races and in the way trainers prepare their horses.
How Does the Chase Season Work in the UK?
Chasing is central to the National Hunt calendar, which mostly runs from late autumn to spring. Softer winter ground makes jumping larger obstacles more feasible, although there are occasional summer fixtures.
Horses often start in lower-profile races to build fitness and gain experience before tackling higher-grade contests. You’ll see handicaps, where weights vary to even the field, and graded races that attract the best performers. Conditions change throughout the season, so form may fluctuate depending on the course, distance, and how the race develops.
What Are Famous UK Chase Races?
The Grand National at Aintree is the most widely known. Over four miles with 30 fences, it tests a horse’s jumping and staying ability over a prolonged period.
The Cheltenham Gold Cup is the championship event for staying chasers. About three miles and two furlongs long, it demands accurate jumping, pace, and the ability to respond in the closing stages.
The King George VI Chase at Kempton Park, usually on Boxing Day, is a Grade 1 over three miles on a flatter, faster track, often suiting horses that travel strongly and jump fluently.
The Welsh Grand National at Chepstow is another marathon contest over winter ground, rewarding hardy horses that continue to give their best late in the race.
Many of these famous events are the culmination of months of preparation and carefully chosen races.
How Do Trainers Prepare Horses for a Chase?
Preparation starts with building fitness and gradually introducing obstacles. Horses often begin over smaller, forgiving fences before moving on to more realistic obstacles to develop take-off and landing technique.
Sessions might use different fence types to mimic race conditions, including open ditches, so that nothing on race day is unexpected. Attention is also given to tack, shoeing, diet, and routine to support a horse’s physical performance.
Horses learn to jump in company, stay composed in a group, and handle the sounds and sights of a racecourse. Runs are spaced to build readiness while avoiding overworking the horse.
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