NEW KENT COUNTY, Va. — Governor Glenn Youngkin announced on Sunday that the Virginia Derby will now serve as a qualifying race for the Kentucky Derby.
“This is a huge milestone. In just two seasons, we’ve established three major races, and now we have a Kentucky Derby qualifier,” Youngkin said. “And it’s all happening right here in Virginia.”
The winner of the Virginia Derby will earn 50 important points toward qualifying for the Kentucky Derby in Louisville.
This announcement was made during the second annual Festival of Racing, which attracted numerous horses, riders, and hundreds of spectators.
“The festival features three major races: the Secretariat Stakes, the Beverly RD, and the Arlington Million,” said Nate Mize, Senior Director of Marketing at Colonial Downs.
Over the weekend, $3 million was available in prize money, and the announcement only added to the excitement.
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