Throughout its long history the route of the race and the obstacles have been modified several times, particularly for safety reasons. But the race has certainly not lost any of its magic as a result, on the contrary. In this year’s jubilee race more than 60 registered riders with their horses will set out over the well known Taxis Ditch, the Great Water Ditch and other difficult obstacles.
The town of Pardubice is well known throughout Europe thanks to this event. Participation in the Velká pardubická steeplechase is very prestigious not only for the riders, the trainers and their horses, but also for the racegoers, who are able to experience an exceptional spectacle.
The most famous Velká pardubická steeplechase jockey is undoubtedly Josef Váňa, who has won the race a total of six times in 1987, 1988, 1989, 1991, 1997 and 2009. He won his most recent trophy last year, at the unbelievable age of 57 years. If his excellent state of health continues he should also appear on the starting line this year.
You can read more about the history of the Velká pardubická steeplechase
here.
Author:
Michaela Bednářová
Source: http://www.pardubice-racecourse.cz/ http://www.vpcp.cz/cist-aktualitu.php?id=55
Added:
19.08.2010