2025 VIRGINIA DERBY TO HONOR MILITARY FAMILIES AND VETERANS
Posted on March 7th, 2025
~ Raceday program will feature special ceremonies and recognition for Virginia military families and veterans’ organizations ~
NEW KENT, Va. (March 7, 2025)—The 2025 Virginia Derby on March 15, 2025 will feature special recognition and support for Virginia’s military families and veterans’ organizations. These special moments of recognition and tribute will include:
Presentation of Colors by the Joint Base Langley-Eustis Honor Guard
Special performances of the National Anthem and America the Beautiful by Ashley B. Bell, a talented gospel singer-songwriter from Portsmouth, Virginia
On-track ceremony to recognize and present a charitable contribution to representatives of American Gold Star Mothers, Hampton Roads Chapter
“Virginia is blessed with an incredible community of active-duty military, veterans, and military families that are the backbone of our Commonwealth,” said Delegate Don Scott, Speaker of the House of Delegates. “As a Navy veteran myself, I appreciate this special recognition and expression of gratitude for our veterans and military community on this historic day in Virginia sports. And I know that Portsmouth’s own Ashely Bell is going to make us proud with her special performances in honor of these extraordinary Virginians.”
“On this historic day in Virginia sports, it is only right to pause and honor those whose service and sacrifice make it possible for us to enjoy the freedoms we so often take for granted,” said Aaron Palmer, Director of Virginia Government Relations. “We are proud and grateful to welcome these special guests to the Virginia Derby and thank them for all that they and their families do for the Commonwealth and our country.”
The Joint Base Langley-Eustis Honor Guard will present the colors for this historic day in Virginia sports. The Honor Guard provides ceremonial support for various events including the 2025 Virginia Derby. Their primary mission is to offer military funeral honors for active-duty members, retirees, and veterans who served in the U.S. Air Force, Army Air Force, and Army Air Corps.
Ashley B. Bell, a talented gospel singer-songwriter from Portsmouth, Virginia, will sing the National Anthem early in the day’s racing action, as well as America the Beautiful immediately before the Kentucky Oaks. Known for her powerful voice and deep faith, she has performed at notable events, including a WNBA Chicago Sky game. Ashley continues to inspire Virginians with her heartfelt performances and dedication to gospel music.
Finally, an on-track ceremony will honor special guests from the Hampton Roads Chapter of American Gold Star Mothers, an organization of mutual support for mothers who have lost a son or daughter in service of our country. Company officials and special guests will honor their service and sacrifice with a special presentation including a charitable contribution to support the organization’s important work.
The 2025 Virginia Derby will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at Colonial Downs Racetrack in New Kent, Virginia. For the first time ever, the race will serve as a qualifying race on The Road to the Kentucky Derby with the winning horse securing a spot in the field for the 151st Kentucky Derby.
For tickets or more information about the 2025 Virginia Derby, please visit www.colonialdowns.com.
