Why This Campaign Is Needed

The Iroquois Steeplechase Course was originally constructed in the late 1930s under the Works Progress Administration (WPA). Now, more than 85 years old, key infrastructure elements are reaching the end of their lifespan. To continue hosting a premier event that supports our nonprofit partners and the greater Nashville community, essential upgrades are required to protect the course and its historic footprint. Our goal is to raise $3.75 million over the next few years to fund these critical improvements. 

Improvements Already Underway

With the donations currently received within the Race for the Chase campaign, improvements are already underway.  Thanks to early donor support, early improvements are already in progress, including:

• Repairs to correct drainage issues on the grounds and on the track

• Repairs and rebuilds of the Stewards Tower, Patrol Judge Stands and Bell Tower. This work will need to continue to fully repair or rebuild these infastructures

• Repairs to the box seat (both the rock and wooden seats)

• Repairs to the platform viewing decks behind the box seats

• Repairs to the irrigation system across the grounds

Planned Improvements

Funds raised through the Race for the Chase campaign will support vital infrastructure upgrades to the racecourse, including:

• Fencing - Repairing and replacing sections of fencing to enhance durability, safety and course integrity.

• Grandstands - Making necessary repairs and modernizing the structure to improve the spectator experience.

• Owner Viewing - Design and Creation of an owner viewing deck to improve the viewing experience for our competitors.

• Irrigation - continue to enhance the outdated irrigation system to improve turf quality and overall course safety.

• Drainage - improve drainage issues across the grounds to prevent major erosion issues.

• Barn - improve and expand the historic barn.