Steeplechase

Steeplechase is an obstacle race in athletics competition that actually shares its name from the steeplechase event in horse racing. The term Steeplechase is not always used, however, and may instead be referred to as National Hunt Racing. In horse racing, the steeplechase (named for the church “steeple” association) refers to a course in which the horse jumps over fences and ditches and avoids obstacles. The human competition of Steeplechase sees similar obstacles thrown into the race, usually running about 3000m in distance. Steeplechase runners encounter about 28 barriers over the entire race as well as 7 water jumps. According to the rules of the International Association of Athletics Federations barrier heights are 914 mm for men and 762 mm for women. How is Steeplechase different from hurdling, another running athletics contest? Steeplechase barriers do not fall over if they are accidentally hit, and the Steeplechase course has different obstacles like water jumping and sloping, which actually helps runners to improve hurdling ability.

The History Of The Steeple Chase

Track and field steeplechase originated in the British Isles, where runners raced each other one one town's church steeple to the next. Steeplechases were used as markers because of their easy visibility over long distances. Along the way, runners had to jumps over creeks and low rock walls that separated English estates. The first recorded steeplechase track and field competition was in the year 1860. The first major championship event for women was seen in 2005, still a 3000m steeplechase course, but with lowered Steeplechase obstacles.

Training For The Steeplechase

If you are training for a 3000 meter steeplechase, then building endurance is paramount. There are various types of men's steeplechase drills that are used to teach competitors how to jump water correctly, how to learn the technique of hurdling and how to deal with muscle soreness. Speed endurance is important and involves practicing steeplechase drills involving memory and hurdling exercises. Once the techniques are learned, competitors and coaches focus on racing speed. Experts suggest hurdling for economy but not for speed, unless you are in the final 400 meters.

Average Steeplechase times are between 8-11 minutes, depending on the course. Some popular locations identified with Steeplechasing are Steeplechase Fall and Steeplechase Island in Bridgeport Connecticut. Steeplechase is a sport to participate in and one that can be equally enjoyed as a spectator. Clock yourself next time you're out for a run and wonder, “Is my Steeplechase time the best I can do?”