This is a subscriber-only article
It looks like you're browsing in private mode
THE Irish National Hunt Steeplechase Committee has supported the publication of a new book, which traces the evolution of National Hunt and point-to-point racing in Ireland from the 18th century to the present day.
Author Frances Nolan has a background in historical research and also has a strong association with racing. Her grandfather was foreman at Fairyhouse for over 50 years and her grandmother worked as a cook for trainer Dan Moore and his family.
Dr Nolan learned to ride horses in Geraghtys’ yard - the birthplace of the great Golden Miller - in Pelletstown, Co Meath. Her brother previously rode in point-to-points and now breeds and trains racehorses.
Most readers of The Irish Field know that steeplechasing originated in Ireland and perhaps that is why jump racing remains more popular here than flat racing.
Before the establishment of the GAA in the 19th century, steeplechasing was regarded by many as Ireland’s “national sport”. At the same time, equestrian sport was synonymous with the Anglo-Irish Protestant elite, who formed regulatory bodies to manage and develop flat and National Hunt racing, who originated modern point-to-point racing through hunt clubs, and who bred and owned the best horses. Racing thus reflected and reinforced political, economic and social divisions in Ireland, but it also served to unite people. A shared passion for the sport - and for National Hunt racing in particular - helped it to survive the turbulent early decades of the 20th century. And the importance of bloodstock to the Irish economy meant that racing endured on an all-island basis after partition.
The sport and the industry became a pillar of the fledgling Irish economy and State support ensured its survival through periods of economic instability. In turn, National Hunt racing served as a beacon of light for the island in dark times, as horses, trainers and jockeys offered evidence of Irish excellence.
In more recent decades, it has been shaped by the forces of modernity and has evolved in numerous and complex ways, presenting challenges and opportunities alike. It has also become a symbol of Irish success, with horse ownership and attendance at major National Hunt festivals becoming markers of wealth and prosperity.
This important book covers all of this history and is highly recommended.
National Hunt and Point-to-Point Racing in Ireland - A History, by Frances Nolan, is published by Four Courts Press. The hardback version is priced at €26.95.
SHARING OPTIONS: