From traditional steeplechase to camel races and family fun, opening week blends modern flair with timeless thrills

NEW KENT COUNTY, Va. — It’s that time of year again — when the rhythmic sound of hooves thunders across the track and the call to the post echoes through the summer air. Colonial Downs officially opened its 2025 racing season this week, offering a vibrant mix of tradition and spectacle that proves horse racing is no longer just your parents’ pastime.

“We have events for people of all ages,” says marketing manager Bella Hodge. “Pony rides and petting zoos every weekend. Junior jockey club where kids can design their own silks.” 

The day began with the afternoon’s thoroughbred racing card at 12:30 p.m. Fans lined the rails to catch glimpses of horses being saddled in the paddock and jockeys climbing aboard for what would be a fast-paced afternoon of action.

Among the opening day crowd was Gary Humphrey of Hampton, who walked away with a smile — and a winning ticket — after his chosen horse crossed the finish line first.

“I love it,” he said. “Being up here with these guys is the best…win or lose.”

But the experience at Colonial Downs goes far beyond the bets. It’s designed to entertain the whole family, with Friday’s card even featuring races with camels and other exotic animals sure to draw curious new fans.

And while the spectacle on the track captures most of the attention, behind every winning run is a bond that often goes unnoticed — the one between horse and jockey.

“Once you can get on top, you can connect being one” said Mychel Sanchez, a veteran jockey with 14 years of racing experience. “There’s no jockey. There’s no horse. There’s a huge connection. I mean it’s like all that power goes into you and you’re basically driving all the way around…you feel like Superman.”

It’s a relationship honed over countless early mornings and countless more races. And it’s that synergy, between man and animal, that makes every race more than just a sprint — it makes it a story.

As Colonial Downs launches into another summer of racing, that story continues — filled with new faces, familiar traditions, and a few surprises along the way.