Our Mission & Vision
To promote, sustain, and grow a native horse racing industry with the highest integrity, benefiting all Virginians through its economic impacts and agricultural traditions.
Our Public Duty
The Virginia Racing Commission is committed to transparency, accountability, and public engagement. We operate with the understanding that our primary duty is to the citizens of the Commonwealth, ensuring that horse racing is conducted fairly, safely, and with the utmost integrity for all participants, both human and equine.
Governance
Commissioners
Stephanie Nixon
Chair
John F. Tanner Jr.
Vice-Chair
Bette Brand
Commissioner
Gillian Gordon-Moore
Commissioner
Stuart C. Siegel
Commissioner
Agency Leadership
Waqas Ahmed
Executive Secretary
- Brian Wolford Deputy Executive Secretary
- Eris Jones Director of Audit and Compliance
- Katreena Lewis Director of Licensing and Policy
- Israel Saavedra Director of Investigations
- Gabrielle Cordle Director of Finance
- Kimberly Mackey Director of Operations
- David Stanford, DVM Lead Commission Veterinarian
A Rich History
1789
The Virginia legislature passes "An Act to Prevent Excessive Gaming," which includes regulations on horse race wagering, marking early state involvement in the sport.
1988
Virginia voters approve a referendum authorizing pari-mutuel wagering on horse racing, paving the way for a modern racing industry.
1994
The Virginia Racing Commission is officially formed to regulate the newly authorized industry.
1997
Colonial Downs opens in New Kent County as the Commonwealth's first major pari-mutuel racetrack.
2019
Following the passage of Historical Horse Racing (HHR) legislation, Colonial Downs reopens under new ownership, revitalizing the industry.