Legacy Chase Horse Race and Piedmont Wine Trail

Towson, Md. (September 26, 2009) — With a crowd gathered in the rolling hills of Shawan Downs in Hunt Valley, Baltimore County Executive officially opened the ninth running of the Legacy Chase and introduced visitors to the new Piedmont Wine Trail. 

"It's great to be outside enjoying the best of Baltimore County's countryside," said Baltimore County Executive Jim Smith. "Our county is dotted with horse farms and wineries and I am delighted to bring them together at Shawan Downs." 

Horse Racing and Wineries

Baltimore County is home to internationally renowned horse races including the Legacy Chase, the Grand National Steeplechase, and Maryland Hunt Cup. Baltimore County is also wine country, with Basignani Winery, Boordy Vineyards, Woodhall Wine Cellars, and DeJon Vineyard (opening fall 2009). These wineries, along with three Baltimore County wineries in the planning stages, join the four wineries in Harford County to form the Piedmont Wine Trail.

"The local movement is thriving in Baltimore County," said Jill Feinberg conference and tourism director for Baltimore County. "While enjoying a steeplechase race or a vineyard tour, visitors can also taste our local cuisine, buy crafts from a local artisan, or extend their stays at a Baltimore County bed and breakfast." 

More Information

Visitors interested in steeplechase racing or the Piedmont Wine Trail can visit the Baltimore County Visitor Center at 44 W. Chesapeake Ave., Towson, MD.