The Virginia Gold Cup is one of the nation’s largest steeplechase races featuring some of the finest horses in the world competing over hurdles, timber and on the flat. The event is held every year on the first Saturday in May (the same day as the Kentucky Derby) and enjoys a spectacular setting in the heart of Virginia horse country with the Blue Ridge Mountains serving as the backdrop. The Virginia Gold Cup has been held in Fauquier County since 1922 and is attended by national celebrities, local VIPs, Washington, DC politicians as well as visitors from around the world.

This is one of the Washington, DC region’s largest and oldest outdoor events.

Date and Times
May 2, 2015
10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Races are held rain or shine.

11:30 a.m. - Terrier Race Exhibition
12:15 p.m. - Opening Ceremony (National Anthem and Color Guard)
1:30 p.m. Races begin

Location
Great Meadow
5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, Virginia

Great Meadow serves as the permanent home for the Virginia Gold Cup and is located just 45 minutes west of Washington, DC. From Washington, DC, 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.

Admission
General admission car passes are $85 (allows entry of car and up to 6 occupants). Tickets are available at area Harris Teeter stores and discounted with a Harris Teeter VIC card. Children 12 and under are admitted free of charge when accompanied by an adult.

Special Events

• Jack Russell Terrier Races are a fun tradition that kick off the day
• Junior Field Master Chase which gives young riders a chance to demonstrate their riding skills before large race crowds

• A tailgate competition will determine the day’s most gracious hosts
• Hat competition will reveal the day’s most fashionable participants

Website:www.vagoldcup.com

Hotels and Accommodations Near The Plains

Warrenton
Airle Conference Center - 6809 Airlie Rd Warrenton, VA 540-347-1300
The Black Horse Inn - 8393 Meetze Road, Warrenton, VA 540-349-4020
Hampton Inn - 501 Blackwell Rd,. Warrenton, VA 540-349-4200
Holiday Inn Express - 410 Holiday Ct Warrenton, VA 540-341-3461

Middleburg
Salamander Resort & Spa - 100 West Washington St. Middleburg, VA  866-938-7370
Goodstone Inn - 36205 Snake Hill Rd, Middleburg, VA 540-687-4645
Red Fox Inn - 2 E Washington St, Middleburg, VA 540-687-6301
Middleburg Country Inn - 209 E Washington St., Middleburg 540-687-6082

Gainesville
Hampton Inn - 7300 Atlas Walk Way, Gainesville, VA (703) 753-1500