Virginia Racing Commission Approves Historical Racing

In a move that should pave the way for Colonial Downs to reopen in 2019, the Virginia Racing Commission unanimously approved (3-0 vote) interim regulations Oct. 3 that will allow historical horse racing games in the state.

Virginia Equine Alliance executive director Jeb Hannum said the approval of the machines, which play like slot machines but base winning combinations on previously run horse races and payouts on a pari-mutuel formula, maintains momentum for racing in the state.

"We expressed in the meeting that the industry has a lot of momentum, and the Virginia Equine Alliance has made strides towards the goals we set in December 2017 related to strengthening our alliance, adding additional revenue sources, and returning racing to Virginia," Hannum said. "We're pleased that the commission worked as hard and fast as they did to approve the interim regulations, and we're looking forward to working with Colonial Downs and the Commission to reopen the track."

The interim measure would allow 3,000 machines in the state. The Richmond Times-Dispatch reports that 700 machines would be located at the track, with the remaining 2,300 at new off-track betting parlors throughout the state. 

Colonial Downs has not offered live racing since 2013 when a dispute over racing dates between former owner Jacobs Entertainment and horsemen was never resolved.