MORE THAN $3 MILLION UP FOR GRABS DURING COLONIAL DOWNS’ BIGGEST STRETCH OF RACING

~ Sunday’s $1 million “Arlington Million,” $500,000 “Beverly D” and $500,000 “Secretariat Stakes” headline a rare stretch of early week racing at Virginia’s premier thoroughbred racetrack ~

NEW KENT, Va. (August 9, 2024)—More than $3 million in purses will be up for grabs August 11-13 during the biggest stretch of racing in the history of Colonial Downs Racetrack. The 30-race, three-day schedule begins with Colonial Downs’ annual Festival of Racing on Sunday, August 11 featuring twelve races throughout the day including three high-profile Grade 1 and Grade 2 stakes races. Racing continues with special race cards on Monday and Tuesday featuring some of the sport’s most promising horses and talented jockeys.

This exciting slate of racing was originally scheduled for Thursday through Saturday before being moved to Sunday through Tuesday to ensure the safety of fans and race teams due to severe weather associated with Tropical Storm Debby.

“This is a can’t miss slate of races for longtime race fans, and it’s the best time for new fans and their families to come experience the excitement and thrill of live racing right here in Virginia,” said Frank Hopf, senior director of racing at Colonial Downs. “We’re just a short drive from Richmond, Hampton Roads, and anywhere in the state, so make plans now to come see us during this special stretch of Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday race days.”

“Colonial Downs is a worldclass facility right in the heart of Virginia and these races will feature a number of international equine and human superstars of the sport,” said Gary Palmisano, executive director of racing at Churchill Downs Incorporated, owner and operator of Colonial Downs racetrack. “Of course, it’s extra special to hold the Secretariat Stakes here in Big Red’s home state.”

Sunday’s Festival of Racing is headlined by the $1 million Arlington Million (GI), $500,000 Beverly D (GII), and $500,000 Secretariat Stakes (GII). These are each “graded stakes races” with large six and seven figure purses that attract the world’s most talented and promising horses and jockeys. Each race was previously run in other states before being moved to Colonial Downs in 2023 by Churchill Downs Incorporated.

In addition to the incredible action on the track, fans will find a variety of exciting promotions and special events during Sunday’s Festival of Racing to make for an unforgettable day at the races:

• A live performance of the national anthem by the winner of Colonial Downs’ “Voice of Virginia Contest”
• Color guard and military flyover during the national anthem
• Live music throughout the day
• Pony rides and petting zoo for the kids

General admission and convenient guest parking are free every day. For an elevated guest experience, Colonial Downs offers reserved Grandstand Seats and Grandstand Box Seats as well as dining options in the Jockey Club restaurant on the third floor and in the 1609 restaurant on the fourth floor.

For more information on tickets, dining, and pricing, visit Colonial Downs on the web at www.colonialdowns.com.