Dwight Hall

It’s the "Rite of Spring”. Steeplechase time here in Middle Tennessee. Get your seersucker, bow tie and favorite hat ready to celebrate the 85th Anniversary of the Iroquois Steeplechase!

I had the honor and privilege to share a conversation with a man who knows a thing or two about horses, Steeplechase and is our “A SOUTHERN GENTLEMAN IS”.

From a fascination with horses as a young boy and cleaning stalls to taking sanctioned rides as soon as he was 16, then heading to the winner's circle of the 1977 Iroquois Steeplechase, there is a story to be told. 

 I would like to introduce Mr. Dwight Hall. Dwight has helped run the Iroquois since 1986, starting at the committee level and rising to race chair in 2008. 

What does being a Southern gentleman mean to you?

To me, a Southern gentleman is someone who treats others with kindness and respect — always. He carries himself with quiet confidence, good manners and a calm, steady demeanor.  He’s never flashy, loud, or rude, and he treats everyone the same, no matter who they are.  He opens doors, removes his hat when inside and speaks softly, even when he needs to be firm.  It’s about respect, humility and grace under pressure.

Who were the Southern gentlemen you looked up to, and what did they teach you?

One man who stands out is Calvin Houghland, the founder and original chairman of the Iroquois Steeplechase. He truly embodied everything I think of as a Southern gentleman. He treated everyone with respect, was mindful of others and always recognized people’s contributions. At the same time, he was very much his own man.  He believed in making your own way and standing by your convictions, even when it wasn’t easy.  That left a lasting impression on me.

What advice would you give your younger self or today’s younger generation?

I’d say first to plan for your future and put the pieces in place to be successful. At the end of the day, you’re the driver of your own bus. Every challenge or setback is an opportunity to grow stronger and wiser.  Life will knock you down from time to time, but you’ve got to get back up and keep moving forward.  Stay focused, have a clear vision and surround yourself with positive people because positive energy creates positive results.   In life, good things will happen, and bad things will happen, but if you don’t take a risk, you’re guaranteed that nothing will happen.

What is one nugget of advice you rely on in decision-making?

I keep it simple with three questions:  

1) What should we do? 

2) What can we do?

3) What are we going to do? 

That usually brings clarity.  If the decision involves others, it’s important to involve only the people who truly need to be part of it.

You’ve been connected to the Iroquois Steeplechase since your teenage years — what first drew you in and what kept you coming back?

Horses have been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I started riding when I was about eight or nine, then moved into showing and fox hunting and eventually into steeplechase racing at 16 when I could get my license.  I’ve always loved going fast, and I guess you could say I’m a bit of an adrenaline junkie.  What’s kept me coming back is the sport itself and the community around it.

You won the Iroquois Steeplechase in 1977.  What did winning that race mean to you?

It’s always special to win in front of your peers and friends, but winning in Nashville, where I live, made it especially meaningful.  The Iroquois Steeplechase is such an iconic race, and to win it at home is something I’ll always cherish.  It’s stayed with me all these years.

What is one thing you don’t go a day without?

A good cup of coffee, a glass of orange juice and some form of exercise.  That’s how I like to start the day.

How would you describe steeplechase to someone who’s never experienced it?

Steeplechase is a wonderful blend of sport, outdoors and celebration.  It’s about the beauty and majesty of horse racing set against the outdoors, beautiful rolling hills, fresh air, and a sense of Southern tradition.  But it’s also about the fellowship with friends and family coming together to enjoy great food, music, racing and the day itself.  It’s a true Southern springtime tradition and a real family affair for everyone.   You don’t want to miss out on experiencing it on May 9.

What advice would you give to a first-time attendee of the Iroquois Steeplechase?

Be sure to dress for the weather – whether it’s hot, cold, rainy, etc. and wear comfortable shoes because you’ll be on your feet and outdoors quite a bit.  Don’t forget your sunglasses, sunscreen and hat are always a good idea.  Just come prepared to enjoy the day, rain or shine.

What are you most proud of in your many accomplishments with Steeplechase?

What I’m most proud of is what the event has been able to give back. Since 1981, the Iroquois Steeplechase has raised more than $11.4 million for Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt through The Volunteer State Horsemen’s Foundation. It’s an incredible facility, and we’re truly blessed to have it serving families across Tennessee and beyond. Being part of something that makes that kind of impact means a great deal to me.

Have you accomplished everything you set out to do with Steeplechase? What’s next?

No, there’s always more to be done. As Nashville continues to grow, one of our biggest opportunities is introducing new residents to the Iroquois Steeplechase and showing them what a special and enjoyable tradition it is.

We’ve also launched a multi-year capital campaign called Race for the Chase to improve and preserve the Steeplechase grounds at the park.  After 85 years, there’s always work to be done — whether it’s drainage, fencing or venue upgrades.  We’re also excited to host our first charity golf classic on October 19, 2026, at The Governor’s Club to support these maintenance efforts as part of the Race for the Chase campaign.  Come golf with us!

If you could share a conversation with any Southern figure, living or dead, who would it be?

I’d enjoy sitting down with Jon Meacham. He’s a Pulitzer Prize-winning author, a wonderful storyteller and someone who understands history and leadership in a meaningful way.  And the fact that he calls Nashville home makes it even better.  I’d welcome that introduction anytime.

How have the women in your life impacted who you are today?

I’d say I’m guided in many ways, especially the two incredible women who help run the Iroquois Steeplechase – Autumn Eklond and Holly Hirschman.  They keep me focused on my tasks and make sure everything stays on track.  I’m grateful for their influence every single day.

---

Mr. Hall, thank you for sharing your time and for ALL you do and have done over the years to make this amazing annual experience, which we call Steeplechase, so very special. See you at the races.