Virginia, often referred to as the birthplace of American horse racing, boasts a rich equine heritage. The state’s horse racing tracks are a testament to this legacy, with their splendid settings and storied pasts. In this article, we will explore some of the prominent horse racing tracks in Virginia.
Colonial Downs
Overview
Located in New Kent, Colonial Downs is arguably the most prominent horse racing venue in Virginia. It reopened in 2019 after a six-year hiatus and has since regained its position as the state’s premier destination for thoroughbred racing.
Notable Features
- Location: New Kent, VA
- Track Type: Turf and Dirt
- Major Races: Virginia Derby, Virginia Oaks
Shenandoah Downs
Overview
Situated in the scenic Shenandoah Valley, Shenandoah Downs is a harness racing track in Woodstock, Virginia. It’s known for providing a family-friendly atmosphere with a focus on standardbred racing.
Notable Features
- Location: Woodstock, VA
- Track Type: Dirt
- Major Races: Shenandoah County Fair Races
Middleburg Training Track
Overview
The Middleburg Training Track is nestled in the heart of Virginia’s horse country. It’s a training facility that has been in operation since the 1950s, and it’s a prominent feature in Middleburg’s rich equestrian culture.
Notable Features
- Location: Middleburg, VA
- Track Type: Dirt
- Note: Primarily used for training purposes
Morven Park
Overview
Morven Park, located in Leesburg, is a horse racing track, historic estate, and hub for various equestrian activities. It hosts steeplechase races and is deeply ingrained in Virginia’s equine tradition.
Notable Features
- Location: Leesburg, VA
- Track Type: Turf
- Major Races: Morven Park Fall Races
The Meadow Event Park
Overview
The Meadow Event Park in Doswell is historically significant as the birthplace of the legendary racehorse Secretariat. While it’s no longer an active horse racing track, it is a site of great importance to the history of horse racing in Virginia.
Notable Features
- Location: Doswell, VA
- Note: Birthplace of Secretariat, but no longer an active racing track
Great Meadow
Overview
Located in The Plains, Great Meadow is an outdoor events center that hosts a number of events including the Virginia Gold Cup, one of the most prestigious steeplechase races in the nation.
Notable Features
- Location: The Plains, VA
- Track Type: Turf
- Major Races: Virginia Gold Cup
Foxfield Racing Association
Overview
Situated in Charlottesville, Foxfield Racing Association is known for hosting steeplechase races. The scenic beauty surrounding the track adds to the charm of the race days.
Notable Features
- Location: Charlottesville, VA
- Track Type: Turf
- Major Races: Foxfield Spring and Fall Races
Virginia’s horse racing tracks reflect the state’s rich equine history and offer a wide range of experiences for enthusiasts and casual observers alike. These venues are vibrant components of Virginia’s cultural fabric, from the prestigious Colonial Downs to the scenic Shenandoah Downs and the historic Morven Park. Whether you are an avid racing fan or looking to spend a day in a picturesque setting, the horse racing tracks of Virginia have something to offer for everyone.