Steeplechase
(noun)
- A horse race in which competitors must jump over obstacles, typically including fences and ditches.
- A long-distance race, typically involving multiple obstacles or challenges.
Origin:
Derived from the french word 'steeple', meaning 'a church spire', and 'chase', meaning 'to hunt or pursue'. first recorded in english in the late 18th century.
Examples:
- The steeplechase was a challenging and exciting event, testing the skills of both horse and rider.
- The champion jockey had a reputation for excelling in steeplechases, winning more races than anyone else.
- The steeplechase course was rugged and demanding, requiring horses to be both fast and agile.
- The runners in the steeplechase faced a variety of obstacles, including walls, streams, and hurdles.
- The steeplechase was held in a large open field, surrounded by a cheering crowd of spectators.