Colonial Downs, situated in New Kent County, Va., boasts a rich history in the realm of horse racing. Established in 1997, this premier racetrack has become a cornerstone of the Mid-Atlantic racing circuit. 

Colonial Downs was conceived as a state-of-the-art racetrack designed to revitalize horse racing in Virginia and the surrounding regions. The majority of its races are held on its expansive Secretariat Turf Course, the widest grass racing surface in the United States. Similarly, the dirt track is a remarkable 1 1/4 miles, among the longest in North America. These two surfaces offer a unique and challenging experience for both horses and jockeys.

Throughout its history, Colonial Downs has hosted numerous prestigious races including the Virginia Derby, the Colonial Turf Cup, the All Along Stakes, and the Virginia Oaks. Following the closure of Arlington Park outside Chicago, Colonial Downs inherited a trio of legendary races from that facility – the Arlington Million, the Beverly D., and the Secretariat Stakes.