Virginia Racing Commission

05/06/2026

What an incredible day at The Virginia Gold Cup on May 2nd! 🐎

Thousands of fans came to celebrate one of the Commonwealths most cherished racing traditions, and the energy throughout the day was unforgettable.

In the weeks leading up to the event and on the race day itself, the Virginia Racing Commission was on the field working closely with organizers, horsemen, veterinarians.
Staff conducted inspections, monitored conditions, and ensured every race was met with the highest standards of safety and integrity.

Gold Cup was a true collaborative effort supported by partners and racing enthusiasts from across Virginia. Together, we upheld the tradition, excitement, and community spirit that makes racing in the Commonwealth so special.

05/05/2026

The Virginia Racing Commission will hold a meeting on June 9, 2026, at the State Corporation Building in Richmond VA!

If Parking is needed we have created a link below which will help you locate accessible parking within range of the State Corporation Commission building.

https://www.bestparking.com/.../14th-franklin-parking/...

We hope to see you there!

05/02/2026

With the Gold Cup just days away, please review these important race day guidelines and share them with everyone in your group. Thank you for helping keep the day fun and safe for all! 🙂

🚘 Parking
Every car needs a parking pass. Please note that General Admission tickets do not include parking — it must be purchased separately. Follow the directions on your pass to your assigned gate and have it printed in color and clearly visible as you approach. No parking is available outside the gates - State Police strictly enforce a towing policy.

🎟 Tickets & Entry
Everyone 13 and older needs a ticket. Children 12 and under are free with a paying adult. Have your tickets printed and ready to scan at the checkpoint after the gate. Wristbands will be issued right after scanning. Please have everything in hand to keep lines moving quickly!

🚫 Prohibited Items
▪️Pets
▪️Personal tents
▪️Balloons, flags, or banners
▪️Grills
▪️Patio/beach umbrellas
▪️Music players or generators
▪️Glassware (cups, containers, etc.)

🚮 Trash
Dispose of all trash properly. Our crew is happy to hand out extra bags — just ask! Once a bag is full, place it beside the trash box and they’ll take it away.

🩺 Medical
Need assistance? Get a security officer’s attention. Medical staff is on-site and ready to help quickly.

💲 Cash
Bring plenty of cash! Ice, race programs, and on-site wagering do not accept credit cards. *There will be an ATM located at the Spring House.

🌦 Weather
Races are held rain or shine — no refunds. Dress appropriately for the conditions!

🤝 Please treat our parking attendants, staff, and security with respect — they’re here to make sure you have a great day.

Link to other race day FAQs in the comments below! ⬇️

Race day is almost here — see you Saturday! 🏆🏇

📸: Camden Littleton Photography

05/01/2026

04/27/2026

Mark your Calendars! The Virginia Racing Commission will be having their Agenda Meeting, Tuesday, June 9th at 10:00AM

📍Location: State Corporation Commission

🅿️ If Parking is needed you we have created a link below which will help u locate accessible parking within range of the State Corporation Commission building

https://www.bestparking.com/.../14th-franklin-parking/...

We hope to see you there!

04/16/2026

The Virginia Gold Cup is back May 2nd! The exciting steeplechase event will be bringing together thousands of spectators, equestrian professionals, and Virginia’s racing community for a day of sport, tradition, and celebration.

This has been a collaborative effort from various parts within the Virginia racing community to make this event successful! The Virginia Racing Commission departments have been working through the past few months to license anyone involved with the event to help regulate

We’re proud to promote, sustain, and regulate horse racing in Virginia to keep an outstanding legacy of racing strong.

https://vagoldcup.com/intl/tickets

04/08/2026

Shenandoah Downs is ready to kick off its Spring Meet this weekend, and the excitement across the grounds is building! 🐎

From our licensing staff registering horses, trainers, and jockeys, to our veterinarians that have been on site preparing and performing pre race examinations to ensure jockeys and horses alike are safe. Our policy and compliance team has also been working hard ensuring a fair safe and secure racing environment for all.

This success isn’t just made possibly by the VRC, it has been a collaboration from everyone involved within Virginia Racing, working together to uphold this tradition.

The work that has been put in the past couple months has been so that everyone can come and enjoy the races knowing they’re supporting something safe, fair, and secure!

03/30/2026

Before, during, and after every race days, Virginia Racing Commission veterinarians work tirelessly to protect our equine athletes. From conducting thorough pre-race examinations and supervising blood testing to responding and immediately to any on-track incidents, their expertise ensures each horse is healthy, prepared, and fit to compete.

Their dedication helps maintain safe, ethical, and fair racing throughout the Commonwealth which helps safeguard both horses and the integrity of the sport.

Even now, our veterinarians are hard at work preparing for the upcoming 2026 racing season, ensuring that fans, families, and supporters can enjoy the industry with confidence while helping preserve Virginia’s rich racing history and legacy.