© Douglas Lees The National Steeplechase Association joins with movie fans across the world in mourning the passing of renowned Oscar-winning actor Robert Duvall at age 95. Duval, whose career spanned some seven decades and included unforgettable performances such as Corleone Family consigliere Tom Hagen in The Godfather, was an equine enthusiast and he frequently…

In 1981, Henry Wood ventured to New York in search of a steeplechase prospect that hopefully could capture the Iroquois Steeplechase in Nashville, Tennessee. Henry was an accomplished amateur jockey who had a burning desire to win what was in that era the most notable amateur race on the NSA circuit.  He arrived at Belmont Park…

NSA Winter Meetings Deemed a Huge Success The annual NSA Race Chairmen’s and Board of Directors’ meetings were held on Friday, January 16, 2026, at the Dewberry Hotel in Charleston, SC. Aiken Steeplechase Chairman Frank Mullins hosted the Race Chairmen’s six-hour conference, which was themed “Sharing Best Practices.” Nineteen of the 28 scheduled race meets…

Sad news from the racing community. Retired trainer and former steeplechase jockey Leo O’Brien has passed away at age 85. Leo was the dad of the NSA’s new assistant Racing Secretary Keith O’Brien. Here’s a tribute from the New York Racing Association: NYRA mourns the passing of Leo O’Brien OZONE PARK, N.Y. – The New…

Lisa Rackle Ben-Dov, whose life spanned a distinguished professional career in New York with a deeply rooted philanthropic presence in Virginia’s hunt country, died unexpectedly on December 7, 2025, only months after defying cancer. Born in Atlanta on March 21, 1945, to Eugene Emile Rackle and Mabel Claire Moody Rackle, Lisa grew up in Metairie,…