As the 2026 Cheltenham Festival begins this afternoon, the birthplace of steeplechasing is commemorating the race that created a sport.
The people of Doneraile, County Cork, where the steeplechase began, erected a monument in his honor.
Commemorating the origins and heritage of hunting
A dedicated committee was established in June 2024 with the specific aim of creating a lasting monument to commemorate the origins and legacy of the first steeplechase. The committee brings together people who are passionate about preserving this important aspect of Irish sporting culture.
The monument aims to honor not only the athletes who have competed in races over the years, but also the community who have kept the tradition alive through events, stories and media.
Limestone monument
A limestone monument is planned to be erected near St Mary’s Church in Doneraile, marking the historic site where the race finished in 1752.
The monument, designed to be almost full-scale, will feature two horses and riders in period costume actively jumping a fence, mounted on a pedestal. The total estimated cost of this ambitious project is €170,000.
The site chosen for the monument is strategically placed on the approach to Doneraile, ensuring that it is clearly visible to visitors entering the town, those frequenting Doneraile Park, as well as local residents and passers-by.
The committee engaged Matthew Thompson, a renowned sculptor from East Cork, to take on the project. His expertise and artistic vision will ensure the monument is both historically accurate and visually striking.
The project received planning permission from Cork County Council last year. Before gaining planning approval, funding for the monument came from private donations and proceeds from a successful golf classic.
Have your name inscribed on the monument
As a thank you, those who donated €500 or more will have their name inscribed on the plinth beneath the monument, commemorating their support for generations to come.
Contact details
For more information on the fundraising initiatives or to make a donation, the Doneraile Steeplechase committee can be contacted on the Doneraile Steeplechase Facebook page or by email at jmcronin683@yahoo.ie.
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