A YEAR IN REVIEW
OFF TO THE RACES
On May 3, 2025, the Virginia Gold Cup celebrated its 100th running back at Great Meadow, aligning a centennial milestone with our 40th anniversary year. The result was a sellout crowd of more than 30,000 spectators and a race day that felt both classic and renewed. In the lead-up to the season, Great Meadow and the
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Virginia Gold Cup Association partnered on targeted upgrades to strengthen course quality and reliability. Two new wells now feed the retention ponds to secure irrigation in dry conditions, and a comprehensive turf rehabilitation program restored consistency and footing across key stretches of the course. The momentum carried through the fall with the 88th International Gold Cup on October 25, pairing stunning autumn scenery, stylish crowds and safe, thrilling races for a picture- perfect day. A temporary routing protected active construction zones while preserving the fan experience, and an advance schooling session gave jockeys and trainers a chance to preview adjustments. Feedback from horsemen, officials, and spectators highlighted improved turf resilience and flow through the turns. Together, the spring and fall races reinforced Great Meadow’s role as a premier home for steeplechase in Virginia. With the course stabilized, work will continue to widen the north and south turns and refine pitch. In collaboration with trainers and course consultants, we are commited to delivering a world-class surface, welcome fans to a trusted venue, and set top-standards for the next century of racing.
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GMF Board Chair Karen Crane and Board Vice Chair Dulany Morison (center) at the Virginia Gold Cup
Crowds at the Virginia Gold Cup 5/2025
Steeplechase & tailgate action
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