Thousands of spectators gathered this year for the Iroquois Steeplechase, which has become Nashville’s rite of spring.

Jack Fancey, an 11-year-old patient at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, is passionate about two things: horses and raising awareness about Type 1 diabetes.

Thousands of spectators gathered for the 77th running of the Iroquois Steeplechase May 12 at Percy Warner Park. Since designating Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt as its official charity in 1981, the Steeplechase has contributed more than $10 million to the hospital.

The Iroquois Steeplechase, Nashville’s iconic sporting event benefiting Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, has named its honorary co-chairs and child ambassador for the 2018 race set for Saturday, May 12.

The 2017 Iroquois Steeplechase drew more than 25,000 spectators for the 76th annual event on May 13 at Percy Warner Park.

Luke Gregory, Chief Executive Officer of Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, will serve as honorary co-chair for the 2017 Iroquois Steeplechase.

The 2016 Iroquois Steeplechase drew more than 25,000 spectators to Percy Warner Park on May 14. The event has raised nearly $10 million over the years to benefit specialty programs, equipment, research and other needs for patients and families of Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt.