The Radnor Hunt Races returns for its 89th year on Saturday, May 18, benefiting the Brandywine Conservancy

Chadds Ford, PA, March 18, 2019 — The 89th Radnor Hunt Races, presented by BNY Mellon Wealth Management for the 35th year, will be held on Saturday, May 18, in Willistown Township, Chester County. The Radnor Hunt Races is a springtime tradition that draws the best thoroughbred horses, riders and trainers across the country, along with around 25,000 spectators enjoying a day in the countryside. Ticket packages are now on sale to the public, with the proceeds benefiting the open space and clean water programs of the Brandywine Conservancy—the sole beneficiary of the Races for the past 40 years.

The Radnor Hunt Races is a celebrated Main Line tradition dating back to the 1930s. Built on a rich history of horse racing that has been cultivated in this region for nearly 100 years, the Races are supported by the legacy of protecting the stunning open spaces that make this region such a beautiful place to call home.

New this year, the Radnor Hunt Races, in partnership with National Steeplechase Association and TPH Productions, will live stream each race, allowing horse racing fans from around the world the chance to watch the action. The day’s events include six thrilling jump races and the prestige of $170,000 in purse money, a spectacular antique carriage parade, and the much-loved parade of foxhounds. For those looking to compete in a themed tailgate competition, the Picnic Patron tailgate offers top prizes for the best tailgates, as well as awards for the best hats and ties amongst the patrons. Celebrity judges will award the top prize in both competitions.

In additional to the many different entertainment packages available, spectators can purchase tickets to the all-inclusive Fox’s Den, located trackside at the finish line. “After much success at its inaugural last year, we are excited to bring back the Fox’s Den—the perfect option for those looking to join in on the race day fun without having to setup their own tailgate,” said Kathy Freney Smith, Radnor Hunt Races coordinator. “Tickets to the Fox’s Den come complete with gourmet food, a full beverage service—including a signature cocktail—and a Finish Line view of the racecourse. It’s the best seat in the house for viewing the races!” Fox’s Den guests have the opportunity to mingle with the owners, trainers and riders throughout the day and access the post-Race Preakness party.

Leading up to Race Day, three fun pre-race events are scheduled to help kick-off the festivities:

Chapeaux, Cigars and Cocktails — March 28, 6 to 8 p.m.

Spend a few hours with friends and fellow race-goers to create a one-of-a-kind hat, learn how to roll cigars to bring to Race day and help choose this year’s signature event cocktail. Well-known area milliners will be there to help guests create the perfect chapeau sure to get the attention of the judges of the hat contest. Hats not included—please bring a hat to embellish or adorn. Embellishments are included in the price. $25 per person, includes hat embellishments, light hors d’oeuvres & cash bar.

Radnor Hunt Races Pop-up Shop — April 25, 2 to 9 p.m.

Shop for all your clothes and accessories to be Race day ready with this boutique shopping opportunity. Admission is free; raffle tickets available.

Wildflower Bash — May 17; 6:30 p.m.

Kick-off the races the night before with a festive cocktail reception and live music at the Radnor Hunt. Tickets on-sale soon.

More information about each event and tickets are available at www.radnorhuntraces.org.

The races take place rain or shine on Saturday, May 18, 2019; gates open at 9 a.m. There are six jump races throughout the day—starting at 1:30 p.m.—with about a half an hour between each race. The W. Burling Cocks Racecourse at Radnor Hunt is about a mile around, and the horses run clock-wise around the circuit for two or three laps, depending on the race. Admission is sold in advance only, through May 10. Entertainment packages begin at $100. In addition to private party packages, a wide variety of tailgate and box seats are available. For details, visit www.radnorhuntraces.org or call 610.388.8383.

In addition to the presenting sponsor BNY Mellon Wealth Management, other returning sponsors include The Bellevue—with over two decades of continued support—Keystone Property and Fox Rothschild. For information about sponsorship, please contact Kathy Freney Smith at 610.388.8315.

For 40 years, the Radnor Hunt Races has solely benefited the Brandywine Conservancy, raising over $5 million for its clean water and open space efforts. Over the past 50 years, the Conservancy has worked to preserve and protect the water, breathtaking landscapes, rich history and active farmland in this region. With the help of the races and many likeminded partners, the Conservancy has protected over 64,500 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.

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 over 480 conservation and agricultural easements and has facilitated the permanent preservation of more than 64,500 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 throughout the Brandywine Valley, developing new conservation approaches and assuring access to majestic open spaces and dependable water supplies 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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