The Grand National Steeplechase has been held on 148 occasions to date.
The Grand National was first run in 1875 in Willowbridge, near Waimate in South Canterbury, over 4 miles.
Since 1891 the horses have competed over a three and a half mile journey (now 5600m), making it one of New Zealand's longest horse races and it is run in winter when the grass tracks are soft or heavy.
The race is therefore a great test of stamina and fitness for both horse and rider.
In 1884 Christchurch became the permanent venue and in 1888 it was arranged that the Canterbury Jockey Club should run the Grand National Steeplechase and it has been held at Riccarton ever since.