The 84th Iroquois Steeplechase Offers a Heart-Pounding Day of Racing

On what began as a cold and cloudy day, thousands gathered at Percy Warner Park for the annual Iroquois Steeplechase. The 84th running carried especially high stakes for returning champion Snap Decision, who had previously won three Calvin Houghland Iroquois races. Winning this year’s race would allow him entry to an elite club — making him the event’s winningest horse ever.

Spectators wearing brightly hued hats adorned with flowers, bows and ribbons filled the field, settling into their boxes, tents and seats. On cue, the sun emerged — along with chicken salad, pimento cheese and a full assemblage of picnic fare shared among friends.

Laughter and celebration filled tents and boxes throughout the day as many event newcomers chatted with familiar faces. Revelers also reflected on the event’s philanthropic mission as Caroline Lantz, a child ambassador for the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, attended the event and shared her story. Caroline went into remission after completing 18 months of intensive cancer treatment in 2019. She has since relapsed twice and continues to fight bravely. In its 84-year history, the Iroquois Steeplechase has raised over $11 million for the hospital and its patients, like Caroline.

Fashion always plays a starring role at Steeplechase. This year, Tanger returned to present the Nfocus Steeplechase Style Contest held in the Nfocus Portrait Studio, presented by Oak Hall. Judges named Suzanne Smothers “Most Stylish Female,” Bob Deal and Jason Bradshaw “Most Stylish Couple,” Rahel Klapheke Sloan “Best Hat,” Amber Williams “Most Outrageous,” and Lorenzo Hart Rolli “Most Stylish Gentleman.”

In the day’s fifth race, Abaan, ridden by jockey Bernard “Bernie” Dalton and trained by Kate Dalton, took the prize, with Snap Decision placing second.