86th Radnor Hunt Races Set for Saturday, May 21
The thrill of championship steeplechase racing, the pageantry of the antique carriage parade, and the cheers of thousands of spectators will fill the grounds of the Radnor Hunt in Malvern on Saturday, May 21. The annual "Racing for Open Space" event benefits the open space and clean water programs of the Brandywine Conservancy. BNY Mellon is the presenting sponsor.
The day's activities also include a tailgate picnic competition, which this year has the theme of "Picnic with a President." Entrants create elaborate picnics around the theme, using food, flowers, costumes, and props large and small to create their picnic. Prizes are awarded to individual and group tailgates based on the best food, theme, presentation, and costumes. There is also a chapeau contest for women and children, judged on beauty, theme and originality. For men, prizes are awarded for the best themed tie.
Gates open at 10 a.m. There are six races, starting at about 1:30 p.m., with about a half an hour between races. The racecourse is about a mile around, and the horses run clock-wise around the circuit for two or three laps, depending on the race. The Radnor Hunt Races is among the top-rated race meets and draws the best horses, riders, and trainers in the country. The racing is sanctioned by the National Steeplechase Association, with purses totaling $185,000.
Admission is sold in advance only, through May 13. Admission starts at $75 per car (includes entry for all people in the vehicle.) A wide variety of reserved parking spots and box seats are available. For details, visit www.radnorhuntraces.org or call 610.388.8383.
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 460 conservation and agricultural easements and has facilitated the permanent preservation of more than 62,000 acres of land.
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