Colonial Downs Racetrack concluded its 2024 season on a high note, capping off 27 days of racing. The highlight of the season, Virginia Derby Day, took place on Sept. 7, drawing thousands of racing enthusiasts and families to witness top tier equine competition.

Looking ahead, Colonial Downs is gearing up for a new spring meet in March 2025. The centerpiece of this meet will be the Virginia Derby, scheduled for Saturday, March 15, 2025. In a significant development, the Virginia Derby has been designated as a “win and you’re in” Kentucky Derby qualifier, guaranteeing the winner a coveted spot in the 151st Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs on May 3, 2025.

“This was another tremendous season of fun, excitement, and world-class racing here in Virginia,” said Frank Hopf, senior director of racing at Colonial Downs. “In just a few months, we will take things to another level with our first ever Kentucky Derby qualifier race.”

The 2024 season featured a mix of top-notch racing and family entertainment, including the track’s inaugural Wiener Dog races. On the track, Irish-born jockey Ben Curtis claimed the meet championship with 24 victories, while Mike Trombetta led trainers with 15 wins. Godolphin narrowly edged out Virginia’s Larry Johnson as the meet’s top owner.

Fans can purchase tickets for the 2025 Virginia Derby now. Additional details on the 2025 racing schedule, including the new spring races, will be announced in the coming months.