The point system to qualify for the Kentucky Derby may have a negative impact on the Virginia Derby — two months later and on a different surface. Nick Hahn examines why.
Twenty years ago, Virginia-bred Colonial Affair and rider Julie Krone made history together by winning the Belmont. The son of Pleasant Colony — the most recent Virginia-bred to win a Triple Crown race — died on April 23, and Nick Hahn spoke with his connections.
Virginia steeplechase racing draws big crowds, and the Virginia Gold Cup is hoping to turn those throngs into bettors. Nick Hahn looks into an initiative with widespread industry support but nevertheless an uncertain future.
By Nick Hahn From the grandstand, the inner oval at Colonial Downs looks more like Richmond International Raceway than the Secretariat Turf Course. When standing on it, however, you know you’re not on asphalt. J.D. Thomas, the track superintendent at Colonial Downs, held his 2nd annual Bermuda barbeque last week, torching the dead material on […]