Great Northern Steeplechase

The Great Northern Steeplechase is New Zealand's richest Steeplechase. It is run over 6400 m at Ellerslie Racecourse in Auckland, making it Australasia's longest horse race, taking approximately eight minutes to complete. The race has been run in early September since 2005, after previously being held in early June.

A notable feature of the race is the Ellerslie Hill on the far side of the steeplechase course; which over the course of the race the horses must climb three times. In addition the contestants must clear 25 jumps over the 6400 m race making this race one of great tests of stamina and fitness in thoroughbred racing, for both horse and rider.

The inaugural race was won by Macaroni, who carried a massive weight of 12 stone (76 kg). Of the most notable winners of the race was Hunterville, who won the race three times in 1983, 1984 and 1985. In 2010 Hypnotize succeeded in entering the history books by accumulating three wins (2007, 2008 and 2010).

Recent winners