Shenandoah Downs Prepares for 10th Year of Harness Racing; Spring Applications Due March 1

Shenandoah Downs is gearing up for its 10th season of pari-mutuel harness racing, with two seven-week meets scheduled for 2025. The spring meet runs from April 26 to June 8, while the fall meet takes place from September 13 to October 26. The Virginia Racing Commission formally approved the dates on February 14.

Races will be held on Saturdays and Sundays at 1:05 p.m., except for Kentucky Derby Day (May 3), Preakness Day (May 17), and Belmont Day (June 7), when post time moves to 3:05 p.m. The later schedule allows for simulcast wagering on all three Triple Crown races, a new addition for race fans.

Racing Applications Due March 1

Horsemen looking to participate in the spring meet must submit their applications by March 1. Forms are available at shenandoahdowns.com under the Horsemen section. Any questions can be directed to Racing Secretary Karen Fagliarone at 732-239-0281 or raceoffice@shenandoahdowns.com.

Changes to Virginia Breeder’s Fund Championship Series

A major change this year involves the Virginia Breeder’s Fund Championship Series. Traditionally held on the closing day of the fall meet, the 3-year-old pace and trot championships will now take place June 7-8 at the end of the spring meet. Meanwhile, the 2-year-old championships will remain in the fall, split between October 25 (trotters) and October 26 (pacers).

The Breeder’s Fund program has grown significantly, with 105 foals registered in 2023, up from just 35 in 2015. The Virginia Sired Stakes program, launched in 2022, will hold its first $60,000 championship races during the fall meet.

New Horse Barn Under Construction

Construction is underway on a 32,500-square-foot horse barn, providing permanent stabling for 148 horses. Since Shenandoah Downs began racing in 2016, temporary stalls and tent canopies have been used, but this new facility will offer secure, year-round housing for racehorses. While the barn won’t be finished in time for the spring meet, it is expected to be ready for fall racing and the Shenandoah County Fair meet.

The barn area opens on April 21, and additional race details are available at shenandoahdowns.com.