The International Gold Cup Returns to Great Meadow on October 25

Tickets now on sale for the 88th running.

WARRENTON, VA — The International Gold Cup, one of the largest steeplechase events in the U.S., returns to Great Meadow on Saturday, October 25. Gates open at 10 a.m. with the first race at noon. Tickets are now for sale online with special packages and sponsorships also available at vagoldcup.com or by calling (540) 347-2612.

The International Gold Cup has become the region’s signature fall event and the premier fall race in the U.S. “The fall races are so exciting,” said Al Griffin, co-chairman of the Virginia Gold Cup Association, the organization that oversees both the spring Virginia Gold Cup and the fall International Gold Cup. “The crowds for fall always remark on the spectacular setting — the colorful jockey silks, sleek horses against a backdrop of breathtaking fall foliage.”

Virginia is the heart of America’s horse industry. Steeped in history and agriculture, the state has long been known for its advancement of the American Thoroughbred and other breeds. According to the Virginia Horse Industry Board, there are more than 215,000 horses in Virginia.

“While the International Gold Cup is a huge fall social outing for many attendees, it also helps to support the equine industry in our region,” Griffin added.

For more information, visit vagoldcup.com.

The 2025 International Gold Cup is presented by Brown Advisory, Virginia Equine Alliance, Virginia Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association, and the Virginia Thoroughbred Association.

Featured photo by T.J. Monaco.

Posted on: August 28, 2025