Choosing the right type of steeplechase fence is one of the more consequential decisions a racecourse manager makes. Plain fences, open ditches and roll-on/roll-off designs each have different cost, maintenance and operational implications. If you are specifying fences for a new course or replacing a significant portion of an existing set, here is a straightforward breakdown of each type.
Plain fences
A plain steeplechase fence is the standard National Hunt obstacle: ash frame, plastic birch fill, PVC face boards and a guard rail, fixed in position on the course for the season. Plain fences are the most common type at UK and Irish racecourses and the default choice unless there is a specific reason to use something else. Maintenance is relatively straightforward, and when components wear out they can generally be replaced individually.
Open ditches
An open ditch adds a ditch and guard rail in front of a standard fence face. The ditch is typically dug in and lined with ditch boards. The guard rail pushes the horse’s take-off point back, presenting a more demanding obstacle at the same fence height. Open ditches suit established course layouts. If the layout changes, an open ditch is significantly harder to reposition than a plain fence.
Roll-on/roll-off fences
A roll-on/roll-off fence is mounted on a wheeled base that allows it to be moved into and out of the racing position without heavy lifting equipment. In the racing position it locks down and functions as a standard fence. Between meetings it can be rolled back to allow take-off and landing areas to recover. This is particularly useful on courses with heavy fixture schedules where ground around obstacles does not have time to recover between meetings.
The mechanism adds complexity and upfront cost. Hinges, locking pins and base rails need regular inspection. For courses with busy fixture lists, the reduction in turf damage can offset the additional cost over time.
Which type to choose
For most National Hunt courses, the core set will be plain fences with one or two open ditches at positions specified by the BHA. Roll-on/roll-off designs are worth considering if your fixture schedule is heavy or take-off and landing areas are slow to recover. WF Racing has been supplying all three types since 1993 and can give you a straightforward assessment of what would work best for your course.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a roll-on/roll-off steeplechase fence?
A roll-on/roll-off fence is a steeplechase fence mounted on a wheeled base frame. It can be moved into the racing position and locked down for the meeting, then rolled back off the racing line between meetings. This allows take-off and landing areas to recover and helps distribute wear across a wider area of turf.
What is the difference between a plain fence and an open ditch?
A plain fence is a straightforward brush fence fixed on the course. An open ditch has a ditch dug in front of the fence face, lined with ditch boards and fitted with a guard rail that pushes the horse’s take-off point back. An open ditch is a more demanding obstacle than a plain fence at the same height.
How many steeplechase fences does a National Hunt course need?
The number depends on the course distance and grade of racing. The BHA’s requirements, set out in BHAGI 3.1, specify the minimum number and type of obstacles for different race categories. Contact WF Racing or consult the current BHAGI for guidance specific to your course.
Are roll-on/roll-off fences more expensive than plain fences?
Yes. The wheeled base mechanism adds to the upfront cost. For courses with heavy fixture schedules, this can be offset over time by reduced ground damage and lower turf maintenance costs, but the initial outlay per fence is higher than an equivalent static plain fence.
Can plain fence frames be converted to roll-on/roll-off?
No. Roll-on/roll-off fences use a purpose-built base frame and mechanism. Existing plain fence frames cannot be retrofitted. If you are considering switching some plain fences to roll-on/roll-off, the fence would need to be replaced rather than converted.
