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You know that we are entering the racing season when you see the first sun after the winter, and oh boy, this year is packed with some amazing races, including the Virginia Derby.

But if you are new to horse racing, or someone who only watches the big events like the Kentucky Derby, you probably don’t know much about the Virginia Derby. So, what’s the deal with this race?

Well, although it is not as old as the Kentucky Derby, (started in 1998), it is still an action-packed race and a warm-up to the Kentucky Derby. But this year, the Virginia Deby is going to be different in many ways.

After Churchill Downs (the organizers of the Kentucky Derby) acquired Colonial Downs, they decided that it was time for some changes. So, this year’s Virginia Derby is going to be included in the prep races for the Kentucky Derby (Roat to Kentucky races), and this changes everything.

Since this race became quite important, let’s learn more about it, when it all started and what’s so special about the derby.

What’s the Virginia Derby All About?

This is a thoroughbred horse race reserved for three-year-old horses, and with all the new changes after the Churchill Down acquisition, it is going to be packed with top-tier horses and jockeys this year.

This is a race that has been held ever since 1998 at Colonial Downs, in New Kent County, Virginia. Traditionally, the race was held in late summer, but this year is going to be different. The race is scheduled for March 15. Why?

Well, I think you know why. This race is now a steppingstone to the Kentucky Derby, the biggest horse race in the world, and the winner of the Virginia Derby is getting a golden ticket (well, 50 qualifying points) to run at Churchill Downs in May.

This proves how influential the Kentucky Derby is, as it can revive racetracks and increase their popularity very quickly.

Where and When Does It Happen?

It all goes down at Colonial Downs, a racetrack about 30 minutes east of Richmond. Mark your calendar for March 15, 2025—gates open at 10:30 a.m., and the first race kicks off around noon.

The Virginia Derby itself is the big finale, so you’ve got a full day of racing to soak in. General admission is just $5 if you snag it ahead of time, but there are fancier options like the Jockey Club or Party Tent if you’re feeling extra.

Why’s It a Big Deal in 2025?

Okay, here’s where it gets juicy. For years, the Virginia Derby was a Grade III turf race—think of it as a late-summer party for grass-loving horses.

But after Churchill Downs bought Colonial Downs, they decided to mix it up. Moving it to spring and switching to dirt makes it a legit Kentucky Derby prep race.

That’s a game-changer! Suddenly, you’ve got top-tier three-year-olds duking it out for a shot at the big leagues. Past winners like Kitten’s Joy and English Channel went on to be superstars, so who knows what future champs we’ll see this year?

What Can You Expect on Race Day?

It’s not just about the horses (though they’re the stars). The vibe is electric families, racing buffs, and first timers all mingling together.

You can grab some food (think classic track eats like burgers or maybe something fancier in the Jockey Club), place a bet if you’re feeling lucky, and just soak up the scene.

Last year’s turf version had a free Secretariat poster giveaway, so maybe they’ll keep the swag tradition alive. Oh, and heads up—leave the big bags and umbrellas at home, security’s pretty strict about that stuff.

Who’s Running This Year?

As of right now, the 2025 field isn’t set entries usually firm up closer to race day. But based on early buzz, expect some hotshot three-year-olds who’ve already shown promise in other Kentucky Derby prep races.

One thing is for sure, the competition is tough, and you’ll need the best horse betting strategy for 2025 just to find the horse with the best chance of winning.

Think horses like Getaway Car, who crushed it at Sunland Park, or maybe a sleeper like Rapture, who’s got trainer Brad Cox and jockey Flavien Prat in his corner. I’ll keep an eye on X and the web for updates—racing fans love to speculate!

Any Fun History Bits?

Oh, totally! The Virginia Derby’s had its share of drama. It went on hiatus in 2014 and 2018, but came back in 2019 when Colonial Downs reopened.

Back in 2004, it hit Grade III status, and champs like Gio Ponti and Paddy O’Prado have claimed the crown. Now, with this dirt twist and Kentucky Derby tie-in, it’s like the race is leveling up all over again.

Virginia has got deep horse-racing roots, too—think Secretariat’s birthplace—so this feels like a nod to that legacy.

Tips for First-Timers

If you’re new to this, don’t sweat it. Wear something comfy (maybe a hat for style points), bring some cash for bets or snacks, and just enjoy the ride.

Betting’s optional—start small if you try it, like a $2 win bet on a horse with cool odds. And if you’re there with kids, they’ll love the energy (though no pony rides this time—it’s all about the big race now).

Will you be watching the Virginia Derby? Let us know in the comments.

 

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