About Ox Ridge Riding & Racquet Club
Established in 1914, the Ox Ridge Hunt Club transformed a suburban riding stable into one of the most storied equestrian facilities in the US, along with creating a vibrant and community-focused social club. Ox Ridge Riding & Racquet Club, with the addition of racquet sports along with riding, opened in Spring 2019, offering squash courts, a fitness center overlooking the courts, platform tennis, locker rooms, and a dining room with a wraparound terrace.
Cherish the history and live in the moment at one of the most desirable membership clubs in Fairfield County.
Cherish the history and live in the moment at one of the most desirable membership clubs in Fairfield County.
Our History
Since 1914, Ox Ridge Riding & Racquet Club has been an important part of the Darien community. What began as the Ox Ridge Hunt Club on a 67-acre dairy farm has grown into one of the area's premier private clubs, while honoring the traditions that shaped its identity.
Our earliest years centered on fox hunting, polo, and horsemanship. The property, purchased from renowned opera singer John McCormack, earned its name from the oxen that once worked the farm and the ridge overlooking the polo field. As interest in equestrian sports grew, Ox Ridge quickly established itself as a destination for riders throughout the region. By 1926, the Club hosted its first horse show, laying the foundation for what would become the renowned Ox Ridge Horse Show. Over the decades, countless accomplished riders trained here, including George Morris—widely regarded as the "father of equitation"—as well as Olympic gold medalist William Steinkraus and many other distinguished horsemen and horsewomen.
Like many historic clubs, Ox Ridge evolved with changing times. As interest in fox hunting and polo declined, the Club adapted to meet the needs of future generations while preserving its equestrian heritage. Throughout the years, thoughtful stewardship and careful planning ensured that Ox Ridge remained financially strong and positioned for long-term success. One memorable reminder of that history is the Club's former indoor riding arena, constructed from a recycled steel aircraft hangar relocated from Westchester Airport in the 1920s.
The most significant transformation came in 2018 and 2019 with a comprehensive redevelopment that reimagined the Club for the future. Supported in part by the sale of 16 acres—now known as Highland Farm—to the Town of Darien, the project introduced a new clubhouse, expanded racquet and fitness facilities, modernized equestrian amenities, and enhanced the overall member experience. The Club also adopted its current name: Ox Ridge Riding & Racquet Club.
Today, Ox Ridge offers an exceptional blend of tradition and modern recreation. Members enjoy an 18,000-square-foot clubhouse, six singles squash courts, two doubles squash courts, four platform tennis courts, a fitness center, indoor and outdoor equestrian facilities, beautifully renovated stables, and, beginning in 2026, three outdoor padel courts.
While our facilities have evolved considerably over more than a century, our purpose has remained the same: to provide an outstanding place where members and their families can enjoy exceptional sport, lasting friendships, and a strong sense of community for generations to come.
Our earliest years centered on fox hunting, polo, and horsemanship. The property, purchased from renowned opera singer John McCormack, earned its name from the oxen that once worked the farm and the ridge overlooking the polo field. As interest in equestrian sports grew, Ox Ridge quickly established itself as a destination for riders throughout the region. By 1926, the Club hosted its first horse show, laying the foundation for what would become the renowned Ox Ridge Horse Show. Over the decades, countless accomplished riders trained here, including George Morris—widely regarded as the "father of equitation"—as well as Olympic gold medalist William Steinkraus and many other distinguished horsemen and horsewomen.
Like many historic clubs, Ox Ridge evolved with changing times. As interest in fox hunting and polo declined, the Club adapted to meet the needs of future generations while preserving its equestrian heritage. Throughout the years, thoughtful stewardship and careful planning ensured that Ox Ridge remained financially strong and positioned for long-term success. One memorable reminder of that history is the Club's former indoor riding arena, constructed from a recycled steel aircraft hangar relocated from Westchester Airport in the 1920s.
The most significant transformation came in 2018 and 2019 with a comprehensive redevelopment that reimagined the Club for the future. Supported in part by the sale of 16 acres—now known as Highland Farm—to the Town of Darien, the project introduced a new clubhouse, expanded racquet and fitness facilities, modernized equestrian amenities, and enhanced the overall member experience. The Club also adopted its current name: Ox Ridge Riding & Racquet Club.
Today, Ox Ridge offers an exceptional blend of tradition and modern recreation. Members enjoy an 18,000-square-foot clubhouse, six singles squash courts, two doubles squash courts, four platform tennis courts, a fitness center, indoor and outdoor equestrian facilities, beautifully renovated stables, and, beginning in 2026, three outdoor padel courts.
While our facilities have evolved considerably over more than a century, our purpose has remained the same: to provide an outstanding place where members and their families can enjoy exceptional sport, lasting friendships, and a strong sense of community for generations to come.