Abaan triumphed in the 84th Iroquois Steeplechase at Percy Warner Park on May 10, successfully fending off three-time champion Snap Decision. The race, attended by a crowd of 25,000, saw both horses navigate a chaotic scene where several competitors fell, but Abaan managed to sprint to victory in a time of 5:42:00. This win marked a significant achievement for Abaan, who had previously finished just behind Snap Decision in their last encounter.

Throughout the race, Abaan and Snap Decision maintained a strategic position behind the leaders until the final stretch, where a pileup of fallen horses created an opening for Abaan. Jockey Bernie Dalton noted that they had a clear path as they approached the chaos, allowing Abaan to take the lead. Despite Snap Decision’s strong performance and past accolades, including being the reigning Eclipse Award winner, he could not reclaim his title in this event.

Abaan’s victory earned him half of the $250,000 purse, solidifying his status in the National Steeplechase Association spring circuit. Vae Patron finished third, while Snap Decision’s impressive career continues, having surpassed $1 million in earnings. The race was celebrated for its competitiveness and the return of Snap Decision, who remains a beloved figure in the steeplechase community.