Virginia Governor Ralph Northam on Tuesday signed a law that will allow “historical racing” machines in Virginia and is expected to allow Colonial Downs to reopen for live racing.
Virginia-bred One Go All Go and Virginia-raised Sadler’s Joy will meet again as two logical contenders in Saturday’s Pan American Stakes at Gulfstream Park.
Va. Governor Ralph Northam has signaled no major problems with a bill that would allow “historical racing” machines – and could reopen Colonial Downs.
The Virginia Senate Wednesday approved historical racing machines, sending the bill – which could reopen Colonial Downs – to the governor for his signature.
The possibility of racing returning to Colonial Downs moved forward today, when the Va. House approved a critical “historical racing” bill.
Virginia Thoroughbred interests grew their OTB network and launched a Va-certified program in a busy 2017 that left one major wish unfulfilled.
Colonial Downs has not hosted Thoroughbred racing since 2013, but sources say a deal being discussed could lead to its sale and revitalization.
Old-timer Two Notch Road and newcomer Northern Eclipse took Virginia-bred sprint stakes at Laurel Park this afternoon.
A series of 50-50 calls that worked out led Sweet Sandy to the winner’s circle — and trainer Danielle Hodsdon to her first stakes win — Saturday.
Virginia’s new certified program will reward horsemen who board horses at Virginia farms or training centers for six consecutive months before they turn three.