Virginia Gold Cup 2023: Applying a strict scientific method to steeplechase

98th running of the Virginia Gold Cup

• Pre-race activities begin at 12:30 p.m.
• First race post time at 1 p.m.

Where: Great Meadow, The Plains; off U.S. Route 17 halfway between Marshall and Warrenton

What: Seven races over hurdles, timber and the cross-country steeplechase

Extras: Tailgate contest – email [email protected] to enter

Hat contest: Categories include most glamorous, best racing theme, funniest, best child’s, best man’s

New this year: 1922 Club, located on Members Hill next to the Summer House with a view of the homestretch under a tent with an outside viewing deck. This all-inclusive ticket includes catered food all day, full bar, a cigar bar, a whiskey smoker, art raffle, photographer, private restrooms, betting and TV monitors to follow the action at Gold Cup plus watch the Kentucky Derby.

Tickets benefit the National Steeplechase Association Steeplechase Fund in support of injured jockeys, industry employees and their families. 

A premium parking pass can also be purchased. 

How: No tickets sold at the gate – tailgate packages, rail parking, chalets and general admission ticketing online at vagoldcup.com.

2023 Gold Cup Schedule

10 a.m.: Gates open

12:30 p.m.:  Opening ceremony

• National Anthem: Alexandra Desaulniers
• Color Guard: St. Andrew's Society Pipes and Drums

12:45 p.m.: Tailgate contest judging begins

1 p.m.: Virginia Equine Alliance maiden hurdle

1:45 p.m.: Steeplethon cross-country ‘chase

2:15 p.m.: Hat contest

2:30 p.m.: Charles Schwab allowance hurdle

3 p.m.: David Semmes memorial (presented by Atlantic Union Bank)

3:45 p.m.: Virginia Gold Cup timber stakes

4:30 p.m.: Speedy Smithwick memorial Sports of Kings 4-year-old hurdle stake (presented by Brown Advisory)

5 p.m.: Maiden claiming hurdle

6:50 p.m.: Kentucky Derby (broadcast live over the PA system, closed circuit TV and on the jumbotrons around the racecourse)