June 22, 2016 
Blending elements of flat racing, steeplechase and pure insanity, the races at Germany’s Bad Harzburg Racecourse are a true test of fitness and grit. Each summer Bad Harzburg hosts a series of steeplechases and hurdle races as well as races known locally as seejagdrennen, or lake races. That’s right, this course has a damn lake right there on the racetrack, deep enough that horses must swim for a few meters before continuing on with their marathon. And you thought the Belmont Stakes was a tough ask?
It’s truly a sight to behold, especially when you’re sitting in the saddle, which you can thanks to film maker Lars Lehmann.
Hit play and hold on tight.
If anyone deserves participation medals, it’s these horses and jockeys.
