The Grand National de Paris
Since 1874, the year of its inauguration, the Grand Steeple-Chase de Paris, formerly known as the "Grand National", has seen horses 5 years and older compete for the coveted title of best steeplechase horse in France.
Longest of the Steeple-Chase courses at the Hippodrome d'Auteuil, this race takes place during the month of May and is the unmissable event of the steeplechase season in France. Internationally, the Grand Steeple-Chase in Paris is also one of the most famous, behind the Grand National in Liverpool and the Nakayama Grand Jump in Japan, which offer larger prizes.
Other the title of best horse in France, is also at stake a jackpot of more than 850 000 € to be distributed to the best riders. Originally 38,700 francs, this allocation changes however with each edition. The winner leaves with almost half of the prize money.
Characteristics of the tournament
The race usually takes place over two days. For the 2017 edition, the competition took place on May 20 and 21. While in the past the race took place on a grass course, 6,400 meters long and littered with 22 obstacles, the characteristics have evolved over time. Today, the race is held over a distance of 6,000 meters. In addition, the obstacles have now grown to 23 and are of different sizes.
Among other things, the runners have to cross the river from the stands twice, each time making a jump of 8 meters. Another famous obstacle is the rail ditch and fence, also known as the "Justice of the Peace". With a height of 1.60 meters for a width of 4.10 meters, this last one takes place at the end of the race.
Nearly twenty events are registered in the program and the greatest champions of the Gallop competitor. Some spikes reach impressive heights (up to 1m90) and make the race a moment rich in adrenaline. As a prelude to the Grand Steeple-Chase, numerous preparatory races take place over a distance of 4,400 meters. These are the Troytown, Ingré and Murat prizes.
In the list of the most titled jockeys, Jean Daumas is in the lead with his 5 victories (1959, 1961, 1964, 1965 and 1966). Moreover, for the next edition, the appointment is taken for Saturday, May 19 and Sunday, May 20, 2018.
