The DC Traveler

The Virginia Gold Cup

by Jon on April 18th, 2008

The annual running of the Virginia Gold Cup horse races in The Planes, Virginia,about 45 miles from Washington, DC, attracts 35,000 spectators each May. 

It all started in 1922 when eight area horsemen organized a four-mile race through the local countryside. 

Today, the event has grown to seven races run throughout the afternoon, over a formal cross-country racing circuit between two and four miles long. The mostly former thoroughbred race horses jump dozens of fences, railings and hedges, some over 4 feet in height along the grass circuit.   Riders and horses from around the county come to the Gold Cup to participate in the richest steeplechase in the world with its $100,000 purse.

The spectators can be just as entertaining as the races, ranging from casually-dressed people picnicking on blankets to formally-dressed groups in elegant and often over-the-top decorated tents and tailgating on steroids with  dining on gourmet food served on fine china and crystal. 

Between races, it’s fun to walk around the course and check out the all the tents, people and decorations.  Check out this video clip covering the races, horses and spectators, including many of the women wearing their traditional fancy hats.

Last year the event started with a few parachutists landing on the track along with a performance by the U.S. Park Police Horse Mounted Unit. 

If you don’t bring your own food or beverages, beer, wine and food is available for sale at the race.

The weather in early May can be unpredictable, so plan on checking the forecast and dressing warmly if it’s forecasted to be cold. Last year the temperatures were about 20 degrees below the normal upper 60 degree mark and people shivered.

83rd Annual Virginia Gold Cup Steeplechase Races
Great Meadow
The Plains, Virginia (map it)

Directions - The Plains, VA is about 45 miles west of DC, but expect heavy traffic on I-66 the morning of the race. For directions, click here.

Date and Time - Saturday, May 3, 2008. Racing starts around 1:30 p.m, and the gates open at 10:00 a.m. and close at 7:00 p.m. 

Tickets - General Admission Car Pass - admits one car and up to six passengers to the North or South general parking and viewing areas - $75.00 and are available online in advance, $10.00 more the week of the race.  Children 11 and under are free with an adult.

Access to the paddock, finish line and winners circle requires an additional Members Hill pass - $45.00 per person.

Parking - Parking is included with your pass.

Images - from personal collection - © 2008 - Jon Rochetti __________________________________________________

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POSTED IN: Events, Family Fun, Food & Beverage, Great Activities for a Date, Just a Bit Weird - Fun & Quirky Places, People Watching, Scenic & Short Trips, Sports & Recreation