​Steve Canyon Award

​Steve Canyon, a big, lanky bay, was one of the finest race horses ever to compete at the High Hope Steeplechase. Owned and trained by Johnny Griggs and ridden by his son, Kirk, Steve won 16 races over fences and earned close to $400,000. He had the athletic ability of Michael Jordan, the durability of Cal Ripken, and the calm demeanor of Joe Montana. He was so quiet in the paddock before a race that spectators often thought something was wrong with him. But, when the flag dropped, he was all business and one could always count on his big kick in the stretch of each race. He raced from ages 3 to 9, and retired sound after a fabulous career. In honor of Steve Canyon, High Hope presents an annual award to recognize an individual or organization that has supported steeplechasing in the Bluegrass.