The Canterbury Jockey Club is delighted to announce that in conjunction with New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing and the Trustees of the Christchurch Racecourse, the 2025 Racecourse Hotel & Motor Lodge sponsored Grand National Steeplechase will be run for a stake of $200,000

To be held on Saturday 9 August, this year’s renewal of one of Riccarton Park’s signature races will be contested for the 150th time, something that was not lost on the Trustees.

Peter Cordner, Chairman of the Trustees of the Christchurch Racecourse said “In 1878 the land now commonly known as Riccarton Park Racecourse was vested in the Trustees of the Christchurch Racecourse. It is fitting that our Board supports the celebration of the 150th running of a race that is such an integral part of the fabric of this famous piece of New Zealand land that we administer”.

Racecourse Hotel & Motor Lodge principal Nigel Butterfield said “Our hotel has sat opposite Riccarton Park Racecourse since 1883 and is honoured to be associated with one of New Zealand racing’s iconic events. The pub has hosted countless Grand National celebrations and welcomes this synergy with the Canterbury Jockey Club continuing.”

The Grand National Steeplechase joins other iconic Riccarton Park races the New Zealand Cup and Canterbury Gold Cup as having reached their sesquicentennial.

For further information please contact Canterbury Jockey Club Chief Executive Tim Mills 027 430 0208