A Different Kind of Horse Race: the Virginia Gold Cup

With a small but mighty staff of four, the Virginia Gold Cup, held this year on Saturday, May 2, 2020, is already well on its way to yet again welcoming 65,000 attendees.

Long before race day, staff are producing programs and designing tickets; selling tickets; tents and rail spots; ordering tents, golf carts, walkie-talkies, fencing, tables and chairs, horse stalls and porto-johns; hiring security, working with caterers on menus, putting together course maps and looking for corporate sponsors who want great visibility at a high-caliber event with a large, captive audience and streamlined precision behind the scenes.

Over 275 volunteers participate in each Virginia Gold Cup. Each has an advance assignment and briefing and plays an integral part in pulling off the event. From officials, patrol judges, timers, veterinarians, blacksmiths, stall builders and stable directors to car parkers, caterers, tent installers, program sales and program ad sales, ticket sales and all of the infrastructure required for pari-mutuel wagering.

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The more than 70 horses that are to participate in one of the six races at the Virginia Gold Cup have already begun spring training. After a winter break, these athletes begin long exercise rides to build up muscle and endurance. Despite the cold and still unpredictable weather, it is necessary to begin preparations early to ensure a chance at winning. Later in the spring, they will compete in smaller race meets as practice runs for the big day.

The 95th Annual Running of the Virginia Gold Cup will take place Saturday, May 2, at Great Meadow in The Plains. Gates open at 10 a.m. with pre-race entertainment starting at 11:30 a.m. with the Jack Russell Terrier Races. Opening ceremony performances at noon include the national anthem performance. The first of six horse races will be underway at 1 p.m. The Virginia Gold Cup Race, presented by the Virginia Gold Cup Association, is the fifth race and takes place at 4 p.m. The Kentucky Derby will be broadcast live at 6:50 p.m. General admission car passes are $85 (allows entry of car and up to six occupants). All of those entering the event grounds under General Admission and going to the north or south areas, must each have a wrist band. Wrist bands are $25 per person. No charge for children 12 and under when accompanied by an adult. Members Hill badges are $55 each (no charge for children 12 and under on Member’s Hill).

Tickets are available at area Harris Teeter stores and discounted with a Harris Teeter VIC card.

Great Meadow is located just 55 minutes west of Washington, D.C. and is in close proximity to Dulles International Airport. To get there from Washington, D.C., 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 2020 Virginia Gold Cup Races are presented by the Virginia Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association, the Virginia Thoroughbred Association, Virginia Equine Alliance, Hogan Lovells, Brown Advisory, and Virginia Breeders Fund.