The variety in obstacles is used to make the horse demonstrate agility, power, intelligence, and bravery. The long format was phased out at the FEI level between 2003 and 2008, but several countries continue to run long format events at the national level, including the US, Great Britain, and Canada. See also American Grand National Breeders' Cup Grand National Steeplechase Cheltenham Festival Cheltenham Gold Cup Grand National Henry Alken, well-known painter of steeplechases List of horse races National Hunt Chase Challenge Cup National Hunt racing Point-to-point (steeplechase) Velká pardubická Thoroughbred racing in New Zealand References Bibliography External links Hunting, steeple-chasing and racing scenes; illustrated by Ben. Herring; edited by J. Nevill Fitt; London :J. Peddie (1869) Brief History of Jumps racing in Australia Jumping sports Hunt racing Sports originating in Ireland