Strawberry Hill Races Reinvigorates Tradition with Colonial Downs Partnership
80^th anniversary brings more horse racing, affordable prices,
and new ways to enjoy a favorite Central Virginia event.

Doswell, Va. (January 30, 2012) – The sport of horse racing and the art of tailgating collide as Strawberry Hill Races moves to a new date and a new partnership with Colonial Downs Racetrack. Saturday, June 2, 2012 marks the return of Strawberry Hill Races, as well as the beginning of Colonial Downs’ Thoroughbred racing season. Fans of Strawberry Hill will find the celebratory tailgating atmosphere they expect from the event, along with more affordable pricing, a packed afternoon of racing, and flexible admission options. Horse racing aficionados can kick off the season wagering both live and simulcast races from tracks around the country and enjoy the added excitement of Strawberry Hill.

“By partnering with Colonial Downs, we are able to offer an exciting and extended race card, along with the traditional festivities of Strawberry Hill,” said Curry Roberts, president of the State Fair of Virginia Inc., producer of the Strawberry Hill Races, “We hope the reduced prices and new options for admission will encourage more people to enjoy the 80^th running of the Races.”

Gates open at 10:00 a.m. for reserved tailgate space holders, with general admission beginning at 11:00 a.m. at the front grandstand doors. The first of five steeplechase races begins at 12:55 p.m., interspersed with seven flat races run on the turf and dirt tracks. Because of the increased racing schedule and use of both tracks, the location of reserved tailgating spaces is reconfigured. 2011 space holders are able to select their new spaces during a renewal period prior to general sales. All reserved tailgating spaces are more affordable than last year and must be purchased in advance from Strawberry Hill Races. Specific sale dates and an event map can be found at www.strawberryhillraces.com. Outdoor entertaining options for large corporate groups and alumni organizations are available.

NEW this year is the option for attendees to purchase individual admission tickets, as well as preferred and valet parking, on the day of the event at Colonial Downs. General parking is free this year. As an alternative to outdoor tailgating, delicious catered buffets and sweeping track views are available in the third floor Jockey Club and Lounge, and the fourth floor Turf Club and sky suites. Advance general admission, Jockey Club, Turf Club, sky suites, and reserved box seats may be purchased from Colonial Downs at www.colonialdowns.com, or by calling 804.966.RACE (7223), beginning April 2^nd.

Unique shopping and entertaining competitions complement a busy day of socializing, racing, and Virginia traditions. More details can be found at www.strawberryhillraces.com, by visiting the Strawberry Hill Races Facebook page (www.facebook.com/StrawberryHillRaces), or by calling the Strawberry Hill Races Ticket Office at 804.994.2900.

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The Strawberry Hill Races event is presented by SFVA (State Fair of Virginia, Inc) in partnership with Colonial Downs
at Colonial Downs Racetrack – New Kent, VA

SFVA is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization not affiliated with state government. In a world where Virginia’s open land and traditions that shaped our culture are rapidly vanishing, SFVA’s goal is to keep cherished ideals and experiences alive in the Commonwealth.