Velká Pardubická: 136th Edition of the Legendary Steeplechase Takes Place Today

Today, Pardubice hosts one of the Czech Republic’s most traditional horse races. At the 136th edition of the legendary Velká Pardubická, just ten horses will compete for the prestigious victory. The field has not been this small since 1993.

The Velká Pardubická is considered the best-known and most demanding steeplechase in the Czech Republic. This year, only ten horses will line up at the start, including two former winners, Godfrey and Sacamiro. Among the favourites is also the Irish horse Final Orders, which will be hoping to follow in the footsteps of its compatriot Stumptown, who won last year. The traditional race gets under way today at 3:30 pm. The race will be broadcast live in the Czech Republic on ČT sport.

Particular attention will be focused on seven-time winner Jan Faltejsek, who will ride Godfrey. With another triumph, the jockey could equal the record held by Czech riding legend Josef Váňa, who won the Velká Pardubická a total of eight times.

6.9 Kilometres and 31 Challenging Obstacles

The Velká Pardubická is known not only for its long history but also for its exceptionally demanding course. The route covers 6.9 kilometres and includes a total of 31 obstacles that demand the highest levels of concentration and endurance from both horses and riders.

Only horses aged at least six years are eligible to compete. Czech horses must also qualify during the season through one of four qualifying races.

Foto: Dostihové závodiště Pardubice | Andrea Zavadilová | Facebook

The so-called “Velký Taxisův příkop” (Great Taxis Ditch) is considered particularly feared. The obstacle is one of the most difficult sections of the entire race. Behind a hedge measuring 150 centimetres high and 180 centimetres wide lies a water-filled ditch, which is now 5.80 metres wide. Previously, it was as wide as 6.50 metres. To improve horse safety, the depth of the ditch was reduced from two metres to one metre in 1994. Nevertheless, the jump remains one of the greatest challenges on the course.

A Race with an Extraordinary History

The Velká Pardubická has a turbulent history. Since its founding, the race has only had to be cancelled a few times. During the two World Wars and following the Russian invasion in 1968, the competition could not take place. Two further cancellations were caused by extreme weather conditions, when snow and frost made it impossible to hold the race.

Some unusual events have also become part of the race's history. In 1909, not a single horse managed to reach the finish line. The 1920 edition was similarly unusual: although one horse crossed the finish line, it was disqualified for exceeding the time limit.

Further information can be found on the website of the organiser, Dostihové závodiště Pardubice.


136. Velká pardubická
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