Night at the Races to Benefit Phoenix No. 1 Fire Company

The horses are going like crazy this year.

At Phoenix Hose, Hook and Ladder Co. No. 1, the Night at the Races event marks the biggest single-day fundraiser for the fire company, and the competition is sure to be fierce this year.

The largest number of horses ever was purchased so far, and according to Beth Meadows, chairwoman of the Ways and Means Committee, a large number of tickets were sold for the event, as well.

“It’s been really good,” Meadows said.

A Night at the Races event features multiple horse races shown throughout the night, and people can purchase ponies and attendees can also put money down on horses. In each race, the owner of the winning horse gets $50.

Last year the event raised approximately $6,000, and that funding goes to help with truck funds, buying gear and general operating expenses at the fire company. The company is made up of mostly volunteers and is not fully taxpayer-funded, so events like the Night at the Races offer a big boost to fund public safety operations.

In addition to the Night at the Races, the event also features a beef and beer, so attendees who aren’t into racing can still have fun and enjoy the food and drinks.

Meadows said that the food is a big draw for many attendees.

“They love the beef and beer,” she said.

The first 50 people at the door will also get an appetizer and peanuts from Texas Roadhouse. Silent auction items include a dinner for two at the Desmond Hotel, a gift certificate to Molly Maguire’s, an offering from Ellie’s Choice, a free haircut from Salon Fiber and more.

Sponsors who’ve helped out include J&L Electric; Dominic’s Auto Body, ; and , to name a few.

If You Go:

When: Saturday, March 24, doors open at 6 p.m. and the races start at 7 p.m.

Where: , 177 Church St., Phoenixville

Tickets: $12 in advance and $15 at the door; horses are $10; must be 21 or older

More Info: Call 610-933-9717