Sponsorship at Willowdale

Why sponsor this event? The Willowdale Steeplechase has been a Mother’s Day tradition for over 20 years. It is officially sanctioned by the National Steeplechase Association and draws world-class horses and riders to compete for over $65,000 in prize money. Over 10,000 spectators attend this annual event. The event receives radio and print coverage in the Philadelphia, Baltimore, Maryland and Wilmington, Delaware markets. As a sponsor your company will be identified with a classic sporting event that draws top competitors and benefits three important non-profit organizations: The University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, The Stroud Water Research Center and Quest Therapeutic Services, Inc. Over 300 volunteers assist in the planning and running of The Willowdale Steeplechase.

How can sponsorship benefit my company? Approximately 64% of The Willowdale Steeplechase patrons are between the ages of 35 - 60. 89% of our patrons are college graduates and 53% have incomes over $150,000. Of the approximately 10,000 spectators at attend the annual Willowdale Steeplechase, 65% spend the entire day at the races. Sponsors receive a minimum of three public address announcements throughout the day as well as recognition in the official race day program, banner placement and hospitality options.

Are there multiple exposure opportunities? The Willowdale Steeplechase provides four opportunities to reach a targeted, high-income demographic over the course of three months in early 2013.

On March 9, 2013 The Willowdale Steeplechase will host a Preview Party and Silent Auction for 400 of our supporters. This event is targeted to patrons between the ages of 25 -50.

On April 20, 2013 The Willowdale Steeplechase will host “Shop Around Town Saturday” to encourage patrons to visit local businesses for their race day outfits or Mother’s Day gifts. Patrons who spend over $100 at participating stores will receive one complimentary ticket to The Willowdale Steeplechase..

On Friday, May 10, 2013 the Willowdale Steeplechase will host a party to thank sponsors and volunteers for the races. We expect 300 people will attend this event.

On Sunday, May 12, 2013, The Willowdale Steeplechase will attract over 10,000 fans to enjoy a day of world-class horse racing in a casual yet elegant setting.

What other companies are affiliated with The Willowdale Steeplechase? US Trust was the presenting sponsor for 2012 and has first rights to be the presenting sponsor for 2013. Other sponsors include BMW, Coca-Cola, Wilmington Trust, Exelon and many regional businesses.

How can I get more information? For additional information or questions regarding corporate sponsorship, contact Laurie Prysock at 610-444-1582 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

The Willowdale Steeplechase offers a full day of family friendly activities including: Seven horse races, Jack Russell Terrier Races, a Carriage Parade, Kid’s Alley Activity Tent, Pony Races, an Antique Car Display, Boutique Shopping and Tailgating Competition.

The Willowdale Steeplechase consistently attracts more than 10,000 people to attend the races and spend an afternoon in the country with family and friends. Attendees are high net-worth individuals from the local equestrian community as well as business leaders, families and groups.

Based on a demographic study by the National Steeplechase Association, the following information describes the typical attendee:

52.5% are between the ages of 35-55
79.9% are college graduates
38.9% have incomes over $150,000
24.4% own a vacation/second home
11 % own homes with values in excess of $1,000,000.

Sponsorship of The Willowdale Steeplechase can benefit your organization in the following ways:

Client Entertainment
The Willowdale Steeplechase is the perfect place to entertain clients, business partners and potential clients. With a full day of family friendly activities, Willowdale Steeplechase provides a great backdrop to showcase your business. Hospitality Tents range in size from tents that accommodate 50 people to 600. Sponsorship packages may include any of the following: Tailgate parking spaces, sponsor admission tickets, sponsor parking, advertisements and signage on the race course grounds. We can also provide visible parking spaces for promotional and demonstration vehicles.

Visibility
With over 10,000 people in attendance, Willowdale Steeplechase is an ideal place to reach a high net-worth audience. Sponsorship packages designed to raise your businesses visibility may include: Visible signage on the race course grounds, advertisement space, vendor space for demonstrations, tailgate parking spaces, sponsor tickets and parking spaces.

Community Involvement
Over 200 dedicated volunteers help make the Willowdale steeplechase a success. The races have grown into a community supported event that benefits local charities. Sponsorship of the Steeplechase helps demonstrate a commitment for the community and a willingness to help promote an event for the entire family.

Sponsorship Opportunities for the 21st Anniversary Running of The Willowdale Steeplechase

March 9: The Willowdale Steeplechase Mardi Gras Party

• A fun evening of live music, great food, and silent auction
• Parking Patrons receive one complimentary ticket if they renew their space by March 2
• Location: The Yellow House at Willowdale
• The following sponsorship opportunities are available:
  
  • Band Sponsor $ 1,000
  • Decorations Sponsor $ 1,000
  • Valet Parking Sponsor $ 1,000

May 13: The Willowdale Steeplechase

• The 21st running of The Willowdale Steeplechase with a full day of activities for the whole family
• The following sponsorship opportunities are available:
  
  • Major Race Sponsors $10,000
  • Owners, Trainers and Riders Luncheon Tent Sponsor: $ 5,000
  • Kids Alley Co-Sponsor $ 2,500
  • Horsemen’s Barn $ 1,500
  • Tailgate Competition – Co-Sponsor $ 1,000
  • Jockey’s Tent $ 750