History
There is a history of horse racing in the region dating back to the 19th century; [3] however, the Virginia Gold Cup itself was not created until 1922. The race was created by eight sportsmen who met at the Fauquier Club in Warrenton and organized a four-mile race alongside the natural walls and fences of the nearby hunting countryside on April 3, 1922, and thirty-four days later was the first Virginia Gold Cup race. [3]
Washington businessman Russell M. Arundel was chairman of the Virginia Gold Cup from 1930 to 1955. In 1980, his son Arthur W. "Nick" Arundel purchased Great Meadow, a 500-acre tract of open space in The Plains which he developed for more than $5 million into a new home for The Gold Cup, which at the time was threatened by development in Warrenton. Arundel served as Chairman of Great Meadow and of the Virginia Gold Cup for nearly two decades until his passing in 2011.
From 1994 to 1999, a horse named Saluter won six individual Virginia Gold Cup races. Overall, Saluter won 22 of his 43 lifetime starts. As of 2025, Saluter has won the most races in the history of the Virginia Gold Cup. [4]
The 2016 event drew more than 50,000 spectators. [5] The 2024 International Gold Cup was held in Middleburg, Virginia, instead of in The Plains. [6]
In 2025, the event held its 100th race despite being older than a century. This was due World War II and a scheduling conflict preventing the race from 1943-1945 and 1948 respectively. [7] [8] The race was almost cancelled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, as well. [8]
Additional activities include terrier and pony races before the main event, hat contests on Members Hill, vendor tents and booths, parachute demonstrations, classic and new car displays, and countless tailgates.
Viewing areas are divided into three basic sections: North Rail, South Rail, and Members Hill. Members Hill overlooks Winners Circle and has the best view of the course. All three sections include private tents, public viewing areas, and tailgate spaces. North Rail is geared more toward young professionals and social groups; South Rail is where most corporate tents and family-oriented outings congregate.