The Virginia Gold Cup Turns 90

WARRENTON, Va. - March 18, 2015 - PRLog -- One of the nation’s largest steeplechase race meets celebrates its 90th anniversary this year on Saturday, May 2, 2015. After great success with pari-mutuel betting, the perk returns for race goers to enjoy at Great Meadow in The Plains, Va.

Since the Virginia Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (VHBPA) elected not to extend their contract with Colonial Downs, a race track in New Kent, Va., the Virginia Gold Cup (and the International Gold Cup in October) has now become the only venue in Virginia to offer sanctioned betting.

As one of the Washington, D.C. region’s largest and oldest outdoor events, approximately 50,000 people come out in their race-day finest to socialize and entertain. Women relish the opportunity to show off spring sundresses and accessorize with colorful hats and fascinators. The gentlemen don’t miss their chance to dress dapper, and sport seersucker suits, madras pants and sport coats. Celebrity judges will decide whose hats are the most impressive in the day’s hat contest. There is also a very competitive tailgate contest.

The Gold Cup’s long-standing tradition beckons to national celebrities, local VIPs, DC politicians as well as visitors from around the world. Characterized by lavish tailgate spreads, sleek thoroughbreds and exciting hoof-pounding competition, many companies have capitalized on what the day has to offer by getting involved with sponsorships, purchasing tents to entertain, and some actually end up doing business there.

Steeplechase racing offers the fast-action sport in a refined social setting, and at Gold Cup, some of the best horses and jockeys compete over hurdles, timber and on the flat. Held every year on the first Saturday in May, the Virginia Gold Cup enjoys a spectacular setting in the heart of Virginia’s horse country with the Blue Ridge Mountains serving as the backdrop.  It is Virginia’s answer to the Kentucky Derby.

The 90th Annual Running of the Virginia Gold Cup will take place on Saturday, May 2 at Great Meadow in The Plains. Gates open at 10 a.m. with pre-race entertainment starting at 11 a.m. including the Jack Russell Terrier Races.  The first of nine horse races will be underway at 12:30 p.m. General admission car passes are $85 (allows entry of car and up to 6 occupants).  Tickets are available at area Harris Teeter stores and discounted with a Harris Teeter VIC card.

Great Meadow is located just 45 minutes west of Washington, DC and is in close proximity to Dulles International Airport.  To get there from Washington, DC, take I-66 west to The Plains exit.  Turn left at the end of the ramp onto The Plains Road (Route 245 south), follow signs to Great Meadow which will be on your left.  Call 540-347-2612 for additional information or visit the web site at www.vagoldcup.com.

The 2015 Virginia Gold Cup Races are presented by Infinitive, Rutherfoord, M.C. Dean, Hogan Lovells, Marriott Ranch, VHBPA and the Virginia Thoroughbred Association.