Original Cork steeplechase recreated for documentary

THE event that lent its name to steeplechasing - a simple challenge between two men in North Cork, who raced each other on horseback in 1752 (for a hogshead of wine) between the church steeples of the towns of Buttevant and Doneraile - has been recreated for a tv documentary that examines how the thrilling and dramatic sport of steeplechasing came to be and how far it has evolved around the world.

The Irish Grand National – Chasing a Dream is unique chronicle that captures the essence of the Irish Grand National – telling the story of one of our greatest sporting traditions since 1870.

This fast moving feature length documentary packed with never seen before archive footage and images, relates the fascinating history of this historic race, contextualising it with relevant transformative events in Irish history. Known as the ‘peoples race’, its strong emotional stories will capture the hearts of all viewers, not just the horseracing fans.

Revealing and intimate accounts come from those most associated with this iconic race, including members of the generations of racing families who helped to make it famous, such as the Carberrys, Dreapers, Hughes’, Moores, Mullins’, Taaffes, Walshs and Woods.

Other contributors including David Elsworth, Jenny Pitman, Mouse Morris and Richard Dunwoody tell their own intriguing stories of their participation in the Irish Grand National. Expert insight comes from commentator Dessie Scahill, Guy Williams, senior national hunt handicapper Noel O’Brien, Robert Hall and Ted Walsh.

It features racehorses that have taken their place in sports folklore such as Desert Orchid, the great Arkle, who won in 1964 and Brown Lad the King of Fairyhouse. Part of the allure of the race is you don’t have to be a celebrity racehorse to win it and horses including 50-1 shot Liberty Counsel in 2013 have proved this.

The Irish Grand National – Chasing a Dream premieres on RTE One on Easter Monday, April 17 at 6:30pm.