Held annually on the second Saturday in October, the Genesee Valley Hunt Races have a tradition that spans over 125 years. The day-long event features exciting steeplechase races and family-friendly activities, including a foxhound parade, dog agility contests, pony rides, a Farmers Market, and an extravagant tailgating contest.
The event takes place on Nations Road, just off County Route 39, a mile north of Geneseo, near the intersection of Nations Road and Roots Tavern Road. The Genesee Valley Hunt Races provide an ideal opportunity to experience race-day excitement in the scenic Genesee Valley, which is exceptionally stunning in autumn. Rain or shine, the Genesee Valley Hunt Races promise excitement, fun, and lasting memories for attendees of all ages.
A Showcase of Equestrian Excellence
Get ready to witness the thrill of steeplechase racing up close. Top trainers from the East Coast will bring their horses to compete. The main event of the day is the Genesee Valley Hunt Cup, a 3.5-mile race over timber fences with $25,000 in prize money at stake. Other races include pony, draft horse, and adult pace chase events, adding variety to the day’s lineup.
Horse Race Schedule:
- 10:30 – Small Pony Race
- 10:45 – Large Pony Race
- 11:00 – Leif Heen Memorial
- 11:15 – Adult Pace Chase
- 11:30 – Stockhorse Sprint
- 11:45 – Oxbow
- 12:00 – Stick Horse Races
- 1:00 – Martha S Wadsworth Memorial
- 1:15 – Parade of Hounds
- 1:40 – Cross Country Cup
- 2:00 – Heavy Horse Race
- 2:30 – Genesee Valley Hunt Cup
- 3:00 – Alida Fitzhugh Memorial Side Saddle Race
Canine Competitions, Demos & Parades
With Jack Russell Terrier races, agility courses, sled dog demos, and even a dog costume contest, dog lovers will find plenty to enjoy. Bring your leashed dogs along to watch talented pups compete in various events.
Dog Events Schedule:
- 10:00 – Jack Russell Terrier Races
- 10:30 – K9 Water Leak Detection Demo
- 11:00 – Dog Agility Demo
- 11:30 – K9 Grand Prix
- 12:30 – Herding Demo
- 12:45 – K9 Water Leak Detection Demo
- 1:15 – Parade of the GVH Hounds
- 1:30 – Dog Agility Demo
- 2:00 – Dog Costume Contest
- 2:45 – Herding Demo
Family-Friendly Activities
Children can enjoy pony rides, stick horse races, and a petting zoo while adults explore boutique shopping, live music, and the NYS Food & Wine Farmers’ Market, featuring gourmet cheeses, wines, and craft beers. The event blends the excitement of horse racing with the charm of an old-fashioned country fair.
Activities Throughout the Day:
- 10–12 – Genesee String Band
- 10–3 – NYS Food & Wine Farm Market
- 10–3 – Boutiques
- 10–3 – Food Vendors
- 10–3 – Agri Center & Petting Zoo
- 11:00 – Tailgate competition begins
- 11–2 – Hay Wagon Rides
- 12–3 – Pony Rides
Tailgating Competition
Tailgating is a longstanding tradition at the Hunt Races. Whether you go all out with elegant table settings or keep it casual with simple snacks, you can create a unique tailgate experience with family, friends, and coworkers. To join the fun, reserve a parking spot (from $150 to $375) and bring as many passengers as your vehicle allows. Additional guests can buy general admission tickets for $15. Tailgate participants can enter the Grand Tailgate Contest for a $20 fee, with proceeds supporting local food pantries. Guest chefs judge the contest and award prizes for categories like Best Culinary Experience and Best New York State Farm to Tailgate.
If you’re not participating in the tailgate contest, take time to see them all! Some are quite extravagant.
Key Details
The Genesee Valley Hunt Races are located at 3320 Nations Road, just off County Route 39, a mile north of Geneseo, near the intersection of Nations Road and Roots Tavern Road.
- Date: Saturday, October 12, 2024, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
- Location: 3320 Nations Road, Geneseo, NY.
- First dog race: 10:00 a.m.
- First horse race: 11:00 a.m.
- Activities include horse races, dog races, kids’ activities, food vendors, tailgating, shopping, and live music.
- Tickets are available online or at the gate.
- General Parking is free.
- Tips: Bring a chair, water, and snacks; wear layers and boots for walking through muddy fields.
What are your favorite activities at the Genesee Valley Hunt Race?
I’d love to hear from you—please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
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