The Grand National Hurdle Stakes is an American National Steeplechase Association sanctioned steeplechase race run each fall at Far Hills, New Jersey….which is a Grade 1 event run over 25⁄8 miles…..which has been known by a variety of names over the years, including the Breeders’ Cup Grand National.
The race dates back to 1899 where it was first run at Morris Park Racecourse. It was long the premier stakes in U.S. jump racing. Past winners include 11 of the 14 steeplechasers inducted into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame including Flatterer, Zaccio, Café Prince, Bon Nouvel, Neji, Oedipus, Elkridge, Bushranger, Battleship, Jolly Roger and Good and Plenty.
The race has also been held at Belmont Park and Saratoga Race Course….as well as the steeplechase meets at Fair Hill, Maryland and Charlottesville, Virginia. The Grand National is sometimes called the American Grand National to distinguish it from the race held at Aintree in England….and is also one of the oldest races in steeplechasing….and one of the most important outside Europe. The day of steeplechasing at Far Hills includes seven races….with the most important being the Grand National.
