Improvements underway as Shenandoah Downs

The track will host pacers and trotters every Friday at 3:00 PM and Saturday at 1:00 PM thru October 15, then switch to a Saturday and Sunday format the final three weeks with a 1:00 PM post both days.

Work began this week on a barn area upgrade that involves leveling out undulating terrain that has always impacted a large section of the backstretch. The project also includes improved drainage, new lighting and new fencing. The improvements, which will be complete in plenty of time for the fall season, will provide horses and horsemen with a safer and more pleasant experience while stabling in Woodstock.

Highlight of the meet is the 25th running of the Virginia Breeders Championships which will be held closing day, Sunday November 6. A series of $80,000 pacing and trotting finals for 2 and 3-year-olds of both sexes will take place that afternoon in a “Day of Champions”. Prep races for 3-year-olds will be held the weekend of October 22 & 23, and 2-year-old preps will be contested the following weekend, October 29 & 30.

A full promotional slate will be announced soon. Fans can look forward to four different opportunities to win thousands of dollars in the popular VHHA “Own a Horse for a Day” promotion. Opening Saturday features a commemorative long sleeve t-shirt giveaway while “Purple Power’s” cancer awareness event will include a purple colored knit cap giveaway in time for the cold weather. The “Country Days’ weekend on October 7 & 8 will feature live bands, specially priced food and beverage items, and an invitational race.

Parking and admission are free to the fall races and the action is family friendly. Details are available at shenandoahdowns.com and virginiahorseracing.com.

by Darrell Wood, for Shenandoah Downs