Grand National
The Swedish Grand National is a form of steeplechase - the Grand Prix for horses. There is a speculative and party atmosphere with many picnic baskets on the grass under the old oak trees. You can gamble and put money on your favourite.

There has been steeple chasing at Strömsholm since 1886. At first it was run by the military but nearly 40 years ago, in 1969, the Amateur Riders Association took over responsibility. This annual event includes is run over eight laps.

The event is held at Österängen in the grounds of Strömsholm Castle in the middle of June every year. First run in1971. The race which is a steeplechase, is ridden over 4,200 meters. In addition to the cash prize of about SEK 150 000 the owner holds The Topham Trophy until the next race. The Topham Trophy is a 7.2 kg silver cup donated in 1971 by Mrs Mirabel Topham, owner of Aintree near Liverpool, England where the Grand National is ridden. On the same day Sweden's biggest hurdle race is held - the Swedish Champion Hurdles, six laps of the same course.