2-982-383 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Elephant Steeplechase at Rangoon, 1858. The British entertaining themselves in Burma. 'The officers of the garrison at Rangoon wound up their 'Monsoon Meeting' with two pony steeplechases and an elephant steeplechase, which were to have come off on the anniversary of the birthday of our most gracious Queen, but the state of the weather caused the postponement to the 25th May..."H. M. 68th Steeplechase Course, open to all Elephants, steered by Mahouts, and ridden by Officers, the winning Mahout to receive 5 rs [rupees]. from the stakes, and the rider the balance, and a 'piece of plate' from the staff"...The ditch is the third leap, though the first in the picture. It was three feet and a half deep by seven broad. 'Grainbags,' who was heavily backed, was the first in, and out again; and not one, that I observed, cleared it. They all went at it like - elephants! and the riders, I do declare, evinced rare powers of 'sticking.' They were in jockey costume, but rode with a staff and flag instead of a whip...The following was the result - First: Captain Vaughan's "Soorul Jumal"; Second: Mr. Marshall's "Delhi Bully"; Third: Major West's " Tearing Villain"...'. From "Illustrated London News", 1858.