Wielka Pardubicka 2024: Horses from Poland, the Czech Republic, Ireland and France are competing

This year, eleven horses are taking part in the competition, including both domestic favorites and strong international rivals.

The start list includes two Czech former winners: Godfrey, the 2024 winner, and Sacamiro, who won three years ago. International prestige will be ensured by, among others: the Irish Final Orders, prepared by the renowned trainer Gavin Cromwell, and the French Hard Roc de Kerser. It is also worth paying attention to last year's runner-up, High In The Sky, and the bronze medalist, Čáryjape.

The Great Taxis – a formidable obstacle

Among the obstacles that the race participants must overcome, one stands out in particular - the Great Taxis Ditch. This is what arouses the greatest emotions and controversy. Jumped over only once a year, it has become a symbol of both courage and tragic events. According to various sources, between 26 and 29 horses lost their lives over this obstacle.

In 1994, for safety reasons, the depth of the obstacle was reduced from two to one meter. Today, the horses have to cross a 4-meter long ditch, hidden behind a 150 cm high hedge.

How to get tickets for Wielka Pardubice?

Tickets for Wielka Pardubicka can be purchased online on the organizer's website. Seating prices start from 900 Czech crowns (approximately PLN 160), depending on the selected stand and additional services.

Children up to 10 years of age have free admission to the track and open stands, but do not have the right to a seat. The youngest, up to 6 years of age, can also enter the indoor stands - also without a guaranteed seat.

Reduced standing tickets are available for children, teenagers and seniors.

A story full of challenges and interruptions

The first edition of the Great Pardubice Steeplechase took place in 1874, inspired by the famous Great Liverpool Steeplechase.

Over the years, the race was not held only in exceptional circumstances - during both world wars, the intervention of the Warsaw Pact in 1968, and also due to extreme weather conditions or an unprepared track.

Despite these interruptions, the tradition survived and today the race is one of the most important events in the Czech sports calendar.