95th Radnor Hunt Races return on May 16, marking Brandywine Conservancy's final year as sole beneficiary & operator
Admission sold in advance only; purchase passes and parking spots by May 6. All proceeds benefit the open space and clean water programs of the Brandywine Conservancy.
Celebrating 95 years of horseracing on the Main Line, the Radnor Hunt Races return on Saturday, May 16, 2026 in Willistown Township, Chester County. Tickets are now on sale for this springtime tradition that draws the best thoroughbred horses, riders and trainers from across the country. This year’s event will mark the final year the Brandywine Conservancy will serve as the sole operator and beneficiary of the Races, which the organization has led for the past 45 years.
One of the oldest regional steeplechases, the Radnor Hunt Races will feature four thrilling jump races sanctioned by the National Steeplechase Association. Special events throughout the day include the sixth annual Katherine W. Illoway Invitational Sidesaddle Race, the return of the adorable pony races, an antique carriage parade, and the much-loved parade of foxhounds.
A variety of entertainment packages are available, from regular and tented tailgates and box seat options to the all-inclusive Skip’s Fox’s Den—which offers both individual ticket options and table rentals for groups of 10. Returning to the Hillside this year, Skip’s Fox’s Den includes gourmet catering, full beverage service, private restrooms, and the best view of the homestretch. New this year, we are also offering a limited number of General Admission tickets, giving attendees more flexibility in how they experience and enjoy the Races.
Admission to the Radnor Hunt Races is sold in advance and must be purchased by May 6—there are no Race Day sales. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.radnorhuntraces.org or by calling 610.388.8383. The Races will take place rain or shine on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at the W. Burling Cocks Racecourse at the Radnor Hunt. Gates open at 9 a.m. and close at 4:30 p.m. The four jump races include The Milfern Cup at 1:30 p.m.; The Radnor Hunt Cup at 2:10 p.m.; The National Hunt Cup at 2:50 p.m.; and The Henry Collins Steeplechase at 3:30 p.m. Timing subject to change.
Since 1967, the Brandywine Conservancy—the sole beneficiary of the Radnor Hunt Races—has worked to preserve and protect water resources, breathtaking landscapes, history and active farmland in this region. With the help of the Races and many likeminded partners, the Conservancy has protected over 70,200 acres of open space—including the Radnor Hunt racecourse itself and surrounding lands—and continues to improve and safeguard water quality, land protection, outdoor recreation and historic preservation in southeastern Pennsylvania and northern Delaware. Built on a rich history of horse racing that has been cultivated in this region for nearly 100 years, the Radnor Hunt Races is supported by the legacy of protecting the stunning open spaces that make this region such a beautiful place to call home. For 45 years, the Radnor Hunt Races have been “Racing for Open Space” in support of the Brandywine Conservancy—raising over $5.5 million for the organization’s clean water and open space efforts to date.
The 95th Radnor Hunt Races are generously sponsored by Black Stallion Estate Winery, Brosnan Dental, Cherry Knoll Farm, David L. Hain, Jr., dfYOUNG, Fox Rothschild, JPMorganChase, KPW Productions, Lamborghini Philadelphia, Lockton, The National Bank of Malvern, Peter Zimmerman Architects, Porsche Main Line, RDS INEOS Grenadier, Sallie F. Dixon, Today Media, and Warren Claytor Architects. For more information about corporate sponsorship opportunities, please call 610.388.8104.
About the Brandywine Conservancy:
The Brandywine Conservancy protects water, conserves land, and engages communities. The Conservancy uses a multi-faceted approach to conservation. Staff work with private landowners who wish to see their lands protected forever and provide innovative community planning services to municipalities and other governmental agencies. The Conservancy currently holds more than 510 conservation and agricultural easements and has facilitated the permanent preservation of over 70,700 acres of land. The Conservancy is a program of the Brandywine Conservancy & Museum of Art.
About the Brandywine Conservancy & Museum of Art:
The Brandywine Conservancy & Museum of Art preserves and promotes the natural and cultural connections between the area’s beautiful landscape, historic sites, and important artists. The Conservancy protects the lands and waters throughout the Brandywine Valley and other priority conservation areas, developing sustainable approaches to emerging needs and assuring preservation of majestic open spaces and protection of natural resources for generations to come. The Museum of Art presents and collects historic and contemporary works of American art, engaging and exciting visitors of all ages through an array of exhibitions and programs. The Brandywine unites the inspiring experiences of art and nature, enhancing the quality of life in its community and among its diverse audiences.
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