Brandywine Conservancy Ends 45-Year Stewardship of Radnor Hunt Races

The Brandywine Conservancy announced that it will conclude its 45-year role as the primary operator and beneficiary of the Radnor Hunt Races after the event’s 95th running on May 16, 2026. This significant transition marks the end of a long-standing partnership that has intertwined elite equestrian sport with land conservation in the region.

This year’s event will be the last under the Conservancy’s stewardship, which began in 1980. The organization is now focused on ensuring a smooth transition to a new operator, collaborating with Radnor Hunt leadership over the next 18 months. The aim is to maintain the event’s legacy and support its future as it approaches its centennial celebration.

Legacy of the Radnor Hunt Races

“The Radnor Hunt Races have been a beloved springtime tradition on the Main Line for nearly a century,” stated Virginia Logan, Executive Director and CEO of the Brandywine Conservancy & Museum of Art. She expressed pride in the Conservancy’s role since 1980 while emphasizing that the time has come to pass the leadership to a new successor.

Logan affirmed that the organization aims to make its final year of operation the most memorable yet. Since taking over, the Conservancy has closely linked the races to its “Racing for Open Space” mission, successfully protecting over 70,700 acres of land, which includes the racecourse and adjacent properties. Proceeds from the races have significantly contributed to open space preservation, water quality initiatives, and historic preservation throughout southeastern Pennsylvania and northern Delaware.

Looking Ahead

Jodi Spragins, President of Radnor Hunt, expressed sadness over the decision but conveyed gratitude for the Brandywine Conservancy’s decades of leadership. She noted that the organization will begin to explore new ways to reimagine the historic event while preserving its essential connection to conservation and the equestrian community.

George Strawbridge Jr., chair of the Radnor Hunt Races committee, assured that the Brandywine Conservancy is committed to a seamless transition that will support the event’s continued success beyond 2026. With the races traditionally held on the third Saturday of May, there is ample time for Radnor Hunt to identify a new operator. Organizations interested in taking over the event are encouraged to contact Radnor Hunt directly at [email protected].

Planning for the 95th running is already underway, with opportunities for corporate sponsorships and advertising available. Tickets will go on sale starting March 3, 2026, with proceeds benefiting the Brandywine Conservancy. Since 1980, the Radnor Hunt Races have raised over $5.5 million for the Conservancy’s initiatives in open space and clean water.

The 2026 program is set to feature jump races sanctioned by the National Steeplechase Association, alongside the Katherine W. Illoway Invitational Sidesaddle Race, pony races, an antique carriage parade, and the traditional parade of foxhounds. This event will represent a final celebration led by the Brandywine Conservancy, honoring nearly a century of tradition.

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