Racing at Colonial Downs is set to expand in 2025, with significant changes to the schedule and the addition of qualifying races for the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks. This is a momentous occasion for the Virginia racing scene, bringing together horsemen from across the mid-Atlantic.

Virginia's Racing Renaissance in 2025

Racing Dates and Formats

The Virginia Racing Commission has approved the racing dates for the expanded 2025 season at Colonial Downs. The 44-day schedule kicks off with a special three-day Virginia Derby meet from March 13 to March 15. This is followed by the traditional summer meet from July 9 to Sept. 13. The $500,000 Virginia Derby, a crucial points race on the road to the Kentucky Derby, will now be held on dirt on March 15. It anchors a new three-day spring meet that also includes the $250,000 Virginia Oaks, another Kentucky Oaks points race. In each race, the winning horse will receive 50 points towards the Kentucky Derby or the Kentucky Oaks (G1). The second- through fifth-place finishers will earn 25-15-10-5 points on a sliding scale.During the three-day March meet, post times will be at 12:30 p.m. EDT on Thursday, March 13, and Friday, March 14. The Virginia Derby day card on Saturday, March 15, will start at noon. Additionally, for Virginia Derby Day on March 15, there will be additional reserved indoor and outdoor seating available. Ticket options for the Virginia Derby will be announced and go on sale to the public in the coming weeks, including a limited number of general admission tickets.The summer schedule expands to 41 days in 2025, with racing four days per week, from Wednesday to Saturday. Post time will be 12:30 p.m. EDT on Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Twilight racing will be offered every Friday at 4 p.m. Racing will also take place on Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 1.The Colonial Downs festival of racing and its three graded-stakes races is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 9, with a special noon post time. Racing will also start at noon on Saturday, Sept. 6, for a stakes-laden card.

Excitement and Expectations

Senior director of operations Frank Hopf expressed excitement about bringing Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks qualifying races to Virginia for the first time in 2025. "We look forward to an outstanding 2025 season with participation from horsemen not only from Virginia but also from throughout the mid-Atlantic as we expand our summer dates," he said.The entire stakes schedule for the 2025 season will be made available in the coming weeks. In 2024, the season offered approximately $650,000 in purses per day, and it is expected to be similar in 2025, providing ample opportunities for both horsemen and spectators.This expanded 2025 season at Colonial Downs promises to be a thrilling event, with increased participation and a wider reach. It is set to become a highlight on the racing calendar, attracting fans and horsemen alike. The addition of qualifying races and the extended schedule offer more chances for success and recognition in the world of horse racing.