Our History
A Storied Steeplechase Tradition
For nearly a century, the Radnor Hunt Races have brought the sport of steeplechasing to the rolling countryside of Chester County, pairing a longstanding racing tradition with a commitment to preserving the open space that makes it possible.
Since 1928
The Beginning of the Races
The first Radnor Hunt Races were held in 1928 at Chesterbrook, the former estate of A.J. Cassatt. Since those early years, the Radnor Hunt Races have become a cherished Main Line tradition, bringing generations of the community together each spring to gather, celebrate, and enjoy a day at the races.
Bill Hunneman, Jr., the first Chairman of the Radnor Hunt Race Committee, was instrumental in the Races’ early success. Hunneman spearheaded the relocation of the famed National Hunt Cup from Brookline, Massachusetts, to the Radnor Hunt Races in Malvern, Pennsylvania, helping establish the event among the country’s notable steeplechase fixtures. His legacy continues today through the William C. Hunneman, Jr., Perpetual Trophy, awarded annually to the winner of the Radnor Hunt Cup Race.
Today, the Races are held on the historic grounds of Radnor Hunt in Malvern, Pennsylvania. Founded in 1883, Radnor Hunt is the oldest foxhunt in the United States recognized by the Masters of Foxhounds Association of America. Here in the heart of the Main Line, generations of horses, riders, owners, trainers, and spectators have gathered each May to celebrate the tradition of the Radnor Hunt Races.
Sport & Conservation
Racing for Open Space
For decades, the Races have been closely tied to the preservation of the countryside that makes the sport possible.
In 1980, the Radnor Hunt Races began a 45-year partnership with the Brandywine Conservancy, ultimately raising more than $5.5 million to support open-space and clean-water initiatives. This year the primary beneficiary will move to Willistown Conservation Trust continuing the longstanding tradition of Racing for Open Space.
That connection between sport and conservation became an integral part of the event’s identity and the tradition of Racing for Open Space.
$5.5M+
Raised during the Brandywine Conservancy partnership
Photo by Bob Plant Photography
A New Chapter
The Tradition Continues
Following the 95th running in 2026, the Races entered a new chapter under the stewardship of the Radnor Hunt Races Committee, established under the Radnor Hunt Foundation, a 501(c)(3), to run the Radnor Races.
As the tradition continues, the Radnor Hunt Races remain a celebration of steeplechase sport, community, and the open landscapes that have long defined the event and its heritage.
Historical Timeline
The First Races
First Radnor Hunt Races held at Chesterbrook.
A Conservation Partnership
Partnership with the Brandywine Conservancy begins.
The 95th Running
95th running of the Radnor Hunt Races and conclusion of the 45-year Brandywine Conservancy partnership.
A New Chapter
A new chapter begins under the Radnor Hunt Races Committee and Radnor Hunt Foundation.
Be Part of the Tradition
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