Virginia Derby to become Kentucky Derby qualifier race at Colonial Downs

RICHMOND, Va. — Next year's Virginia Derby at the Colonial Downs Racetrack will serve as a qualifying race for the Kentucky Derby, Gov. Glenn Youngkin announced on Sunday.

"The future for thoroughbred racing in Virginia is bright and this opportunity will allow us to shine on horseracing’s biggest stage," Youngkin said in a news release. "Churchill Downs has worked with partners throughout the Commonwealth to reinvigorate Virginia’s proud legacy of thoroughbred racing and secure our place as a world-class destination for racing fans and equine talent from around the world and in our own backyard."

Colonial Downs said the Virginia Derby has traditionally been a turf race that signified the culmination of the summer racing season, with this year's race still going ahead as scheduled on September 7.

Next year's Virginia Derby will transition to the dirt track and will be held on March 15, 2025. Colonial Downs said the Virginia Derby's winning horse will be guaranteed a post position in the starting gate for the 151st Kentucky Derby on May 3, 2025, at legendary Churchill Downs Racetrack in Louisville, Kentucky.

"It is exciting that the Road to the Kentucky Derby will now run through Virginia," said Virginia House Speaker Don Scott. "Churchill Downs has elevated the stature and economic impact of thoroughbred racing in the Commonwealth while creating jobs, generating significant tax revenue in communities around the state, and offering race fans a memorable experience at the track.” 

The Virginia Derby's March 15 date is contingent on formal approval of the Virginia Racing Commission.

Located in New Kent County between Richmond and Williamsburg, Colonial Downs first opened in 1997 and then temporarily closed in 2014. It reopened in 2019 after undergoing renovations.