Post Positions Announced for the 84th Running of the Iroquois Steeplechase in Nashville This Saturday, May 10th
Seven Thrilling Races with Overall Purses of $575k – the Largest on the National Steeplechase Association’s Spring Circuit
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – May 8, 2025 – The Iroquois Steeplechase, sponsored by Bank of America, has officially announced the post positions for the 84th running of the Iroquois Steeplechase, taking place this Saturday, May 10 at Percy Warner Park.
The nationally renowned Grade 1 race will feature a highly competitive field of steeplechase horses vying for a purse of $250,000, among the overall total purses for the day reaching $575,000 — the largest purse on the National Steeplechase Association’s spring circuit. A thrilling day of seven races continues to attract top riders, trainers and spectators from across the U.S. and abroad to Nashville this spring.
The post position draw was conducted this morning at the Steeplechase Bell Tower during the Horseman’s announcements attended by owners, trainers and media representatives.
“This year’s field is among the most talented we’ve seen in recent memory,” said Dwight Hall, Chairman of the Iroquois Steeplechase. “With a balanced draw and Snap Decision returning for an attempt at a fourth win, we’re looking forward to a thrilling day of racing and celebration here in Music City.”
The Calvin Houghland Iroquois is the centerpiece of a full day of racing, fashion and philanthropy, benefiting Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt. Below are the official post positions for the 2025 Calvin Houghland Iroquois (5th Race, 3 miles over hurdles, $250,000 Guaranteed):
SEE ENTIRE POST POSITION LINEUP FOR ALL RACES HERE
*Post positions subject to change prior to race. Check https://nationalsteeplechase.com/racing entries for up-to-date information.
Jimmy P, Zabeel Champion, Vae Patron and Snap Decision are all returning for another shot at the Calvin Houghland Iroquois. Snap Decision is vying for a historic fourth win, as owners, Bruton Street-US, have already garnered the title five times.
The winner of the Calvin Houghland Iroquois will be invited to compete in the Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle at the 2026 Cheltenham Festival in Gloucestershire, England next March. With a purse of approximately €350,000 ($381,000), the race offers a global stage for steeplechase excellence. The invitation includes a travel incentive provided by The Jockey Club (U.K.), in partnership with TVV Capital. No horse has yet claimed victories at both the Cheltenham Festival and the Iroquois — a feat that remains an elusive milestone in the sport’s history.
The gates will open at 8 a.m. for tailgating and party tents open at 11 a.m. The opening ceremonies will start at approximately 12 p.m. with an exhilarating lineup of seven races throughout the day, with the featured race (5th race) scheduled for 3:40 p.m. CST. The event will conclude with the closing of hospitality tents approximately 15 minutes after the final race around 5:30 p.m.,with the exception of the Royal 615 After-Party closing at 7:30 p.m. on race day.
Limited tickets still remain for Royal 615, Tailgating spaces and general admission. For details on tickets, parking, directions, and ride-share information, visit www.iroquoissteeplechase.org.
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About Iroquois Steeplechase
The Iroquois Steeplechase is a full day of racing at Percy Warner Park in Nashville, TN. The mission of the Iroquois Steeplechase is to manage and produce an annual world-class horse race that benefits Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt and other local community non-profits, as well as promote the sport of steeplechasing. To learn more about Steeplechase, visit IroquoisSteeplechase.org.
About Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt
Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt is one of the nation’s leading children’s hospitals, treating and helping to prevent a full range of pediatric health issues from colds and broken bones to complex heart diseases and cancer. In 2024, Monroe Carell was again named among the nation’s “Best Children’s Hospitals” for the 18th consecutive year by U.S. News & World Report. Additionally, the hospital earned the distinction as the No. 1 pediatric hospital in Tennessee and shares first place in the Southeast region for the fourth consecutive year.
Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, a nonprofit organization, opened in 2004, expanded its physical space in 2012, and in 2016 began construction to add four new floors encompassing 160,000 total sq. ft. The new expansion helps to advance the size and scope of the hospital’s mission. For more about Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt: ChildrensHospitalVanderbilt.org.
