It’s tent parties and six steeplechase jump races for open space with the 87th Radnor Hunt Races in Malvern on May 20.
Don’t say we didn’t warn you. You need to purchase your passes/parking spots by Friday May 12, or you’re out of luck.
Do they wear fancy hats like the Kentucky Derby?
That’s a different kind of horse racing, but there will be a chapeau contest for women and children, judged on beauty and theme, and prizes to men with the best-themed ties.
What’s the theme?This year’s tailgate picnic competition has the theme of “Frolic along the Brandywine,” honoring the Brandywine Conservancy’s founder, George A. “Frolic” Weymouth, who died last year. Frolic’s four-in-hand antique carriage led the carriage parade at the races each year. Entrants create elaborate picnics around the theme, using food, flowers, costumes and props. Local chefs and celebrities will serve as judges, awarding prizes to individual and group tailgates.
What’s the connection to the Brandywine Conservancy?
The proceeds from the annual event benefit the open space and clean water programs of the Brandywine Conservancy. To date, more than 63,000 acres have been permanently protected, including the Radnor Hunt racecourse itself and the surrounding land.
The Brandywine Conservancy works with private landowners who wish to see their land protected forever, and provide community planning services to municipalities and other governmental agencies. The conservancy currently holds 460 conservation and agricultural easements.
What should I wear?Check the weather for Saturday the 20th. Generally speaking, the level of dress changes with the proximity to the clubhouse, where most men wear sport jackets (tie optional) and most women wear dresses and flat shoes. Remember a hat or sun block, or rain gear if the weather is wet.
Where is this in Malvern?The W. Burling Cocks Memorial Race Course at Radnor Hunt is at 826 Providence Road. See an aerial map of the site at www.radnorhuntraces.org/Content/Map.
How many people come out to this?
Usually 20,000.When do the gates open?
10 a.m. The first race starts at 1:30 p.m., with about a half hour between races. The course is about a mile around, and the horses run clockwise around the circuit for two or three laps, depending on the race. The races are over between 4:15 and 4:30.
Many people come early to set up tailgate parties or tent parties. You should arrive before 1 to allow for parking and getting where you need to go. If you’re parking on the infield, you should plan on arriving closer to noon. Crossing the racecourse takes some planning because the crossing gates are closed a few minutes prior to a race for inspection. During the races the gates are closed, and after a race the course has to be inspected again.
I can’t get tickets at the gate?
No. Admission parking passes are sold in advance only, and start at $75 per car. In addition to the tents, a variety of reserved parking spots and box seats are available. For details, visit www.radnorhuntraces.org or call (610) 388-8383.
What’s with the tents?”Tents provide shade on a sunny day, and shelter from the rain if the clouds roll in,” Radnor Hunt Races coordinator Carol Griffin said in a press release. “Just choose the location you like on the rail, and a tent to fit your party.” This year, race organizers have added tents in several new locations.
In addition, spectators may also choose to reserve box seats, or a tailgating spot.
Can I BYO?Yes, just drink responsibly. There will be food available.
Can I buy a parking pass and join my friend’s party?
Yes. Make sure your friend is not in a limited access area, an area that requires a subscriber ribbon. If they are they will need to purchase a ribbon for you.
Can I leave the grounds and get back in later?
No. If you leave early, your parking pass will be collected as you leave. You can leave at anytime; from the infield you must wait to leave between races.
