May 2023 Issue

Page 12 May 2023 EAST COAST EQUESTRIAN Radnor Hunt Races to Again Benefit Conservation Celebrating 92 years of horseracing on the Main Line, the Radnor Hunt Races return on Sat- urday, May 20, 2023 in Willistown Township, Chester County, PA. Tickets are now on sale for this springtime tradition that draws the best thoroughbred horses, riders and trainers from across the country. All event proceeds benefit the open space and clean water programs of the Brandywine Con- servancy—the sole beneficiary of the Races for more than 40 years. One of the oldest regional steeplechases, the Radnor Hunt Races will feature five thrilling jump races sanctioned by the National Steeplechase Associa- tion. Special events throughout the day include the third annual Katherine W. Illoway Invitational Sidesaddle Race, the return of the adorable leadline pony races, a spectacular antique carriage pa- rade, and the much-loved parade of foxhounds. A variety of entertainment packages are available, from reg- ular 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. Located at the finish line, Skip’s Fox’s Den includes gourmet catering, full bever- age service, private restrooms, and the opportunity to network and enjoy the races from the best seat in the house. New this year, the Kit’s Club is a BYOB, family-friendly version of Skip’s Fox’s Den. Similar to the Fox’s Den, the Kit’s Club will offer a buffet lunch with a view of the finish line. This tent will also include some age-appropriate activities—all children must be accompanied by an adult. Ad- mission is sold in advance and must be purchased by May 10, 2023—there are no Race Day sales. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.rad- norhuntraces.org or by calling 610-388-8383. The Races will take place rain or shine at the W. Burling Cocks Racecourse at the Radnor Hunt. Gates open at 9 a.m. and close at 5 p.m. The five jump races include the Milfern Cup at 1:30 p.m.; the Thompson Memo- rial Steeplechase at 2:10 p.m.; the Radnor Hunt Cup at 2:50 p.m.; the National Hunt Cup at 3:30 p.m.; and the Henry Collins at 4:10 p.m. Times are subject to change. Since 1967, the Brandy- wine 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 re- gion. With the help of the Races and many likeminded partners, the Conservancy has protect- ed over 70,000 acres of open space—including the Radnor Hunt racecourse itself and sur- rounding lands—and continues to improve and safeguard water quality, land protection, outdoor recreation and historic preserva- tion in southeastern Pennsylva- nia 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 more than 40 years, the Radnor Hunt Races have been “Racing for Open Space” in support of the Bran- dywine Conservancy—raising over $5.5 million for the orga- nization’s clean water and open space efforts to date.