Gabrielle Cordle

The public hearing included department reports from Finance, Audit and Compliance, Policy and Licensing, Investigations, and Veterinary Services, detailing 2025 accomplishments and 2026 plans. New business involved adopting a resolution of appreciation for Dr. Charles Richard Harden, adopting a Code of Ethics for Commissioners and the Executive Secretary, and tabling the Commissioner Travel Policy for further development. The Commission also considered and conditionally approved the 2026 limited licenses and racing dates for Shenandoah Downs, Virginia Gold Cup, and Colonial Downs. Shenandoah Downs presented on their successful 2025 meet, including the use of a new $2 million barn, while Colonial Downs reported on expanding their race days and positive attendance/handle metrics for Virginia Derby Day.

The meeting included a summary of the Association of Racing Commission International Conference, focusing on industry topics such as veterinarian shortages and track surface safety. Updates were provided on the upcoming 2025 Colonial Downs summer race meet, including the rebranding of the Virginia Derby. There was a report on the Virginia Gold Cup Association's 100th running of the event and plans to renovate the turf course. The commission approved requests from Colonial Downs regarding racing officials and wagering rules, as well as the 2025 Virginia HBPA Benevolence Budget. The meeting then moved into a closed session to discuss personnel matters and receive legal counsel.

The Virginia Racing Commission held a public hearing to discuss several key items. These included an update regarding the 2025 Virginia Derby, with presentations from representatives of the Virginia Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association (VHBPA) and Colonial Downs Group. The commission also addressed the Virginia Gold Cup Association's limited license to conduct race meetings in 2025 and Colonial Downs Group, LLC's request to amend its limited license to conduct race meetings in 2025. Additionally, the commission reviewed a proposal for the promotion, marketing, sustenance, and growth of the Virginia horse industry, including horse breeding.

The meeting included discussions and updates regarding the 2025 Virginia Derby and the Virginia Gold Cup Association's Limited License to conduct race meetings in 2025. A technical amendment for Colonial Downs was presented to amend its Limited License to conduct race meetings in 2025, allowing National Steeple Chase races to be run on a separate card with on-track pari-mutuel wagering. Additionally, a proposal was presented by the Virginia Equine Alliance for a grant to promote and market the Virginia horse industry.

The meeting addressed several key items, including the adoption of a remote attendance and electronic meeting policy. The commission reviewed requests to surrender licenses for satellite facilities, specifically Breakers and Dumfries, and considered a request for licenses to operate a satellite facility and conduct pari-mutuel wagering on historical horse racing by Colonial Downs, LLC, at Roseshire. Public comments were heard regarding the Roseshire project, with concerns raised about community engagement, security, and the relevance of a historical referendum to current gaming operations.