Tradition, Triumph and Giving Back Commemorates the 84th Iroquois Steeplechase
Photo Credit: Sam Hearn
Record-breaking Crowd Celebrates Thrilling Races, Southern Style and Community Impact at Nashville’s Rite of Spring
Plans Already Underway to Celebrate the 85th Anniversary of the Iroquois Steeplechase on May 9, 2026
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – June 16, 2025 – More than 30,000 spectators poured into Nashville’s Percy Warner Park last month for the 84th anniversary of the Iroquois Steeplechase, presented by Bank of America — making it the most attended event in its storied history. With a record-breaking $575,000 in purses and over $11 million raised to date for Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, the Iroquois continues to reign as Nashville’s Rite of Spring — where tradition, adrenaline and purpose collide.
In the days leading up to race day, jockeys made a heartfelt visit to the Ryan Seacrest Studio at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, connecting with young patients through stories and smiles — a touching reminder that this event is about more than racing; it’s about community, compassion and giving back.
Ryan Seacrest Studio at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt
“The Iroquois Steeplechase has always been about more than just racing,” said Dwight Hall, Chairman of the Iroquois Steeplechase. “Our longstanding partnership with Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt is at the heart of what we do — bringing the community together to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families across Middle Tennessee.”
The day’s pinnacle moment came as ABAAN, ridden by Bernard (Bernie) Dalton and trained by Kate Dalton, surged to victory in the Grade 1 Calvin Houghland Iroquois — capturing the lion’s share of the record purse and earning a coveted invitation to compete at the 2026 Cheltenham Festival’s Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle in Gloucestershire, England next year. This international connection, supported by The Jockey Club U.K., and TVV Capitalled by Andrew Byrd, signals a thrilling new chapter for American jump racing.
Other highlights of the day included a stirring rendition of the National Anthemby country music artist Walker Montgomery, along with the Parade of Hounds led by Charles Montgomery and the Mells Foxhounds, stick pony races for children, and fiercely contested Tailgating and Style Contests reflecting the event’s lively blend of tradition.
With the spotlight now shifting toward 2026, organizers have begun planning an unforgettable 85th Anniversary Celebration, set for Saturday, May 9, 2026. From world-class racing and fashion to philanthropy and Southern hospitality, the milestone event promises to be one for the ages.
Mark your calendars now. The countdown to 85 years of tradition, triumph and timeless charm has officially begun.
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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.
