Revised Definition of “Virginia-Bred” Horse Addressed at Virginia Racing Commission Meeting

A revised definition of a Virginia-bred horse was also approved at the recent VRC meeting. A Virginia-bred thoroughbred horse refers to a registered thoroughbred horse foaled in Virginia. Beginning with foals of 2024, the foal’s dam must also domicile in Virginia from September 1^st of the year of conception and reside in Virginia until she foals the following year. 

VTA Executive Director Debbie Easter noted the Breeders’ Fund will be rising from $1.2 million to over $2 million in the near future and that, combined with the revised definition, will help build up the mare population in Virginia. Pending VRC approval later this year, the fund will pay Virginia breeders and stallion owners awards for first thru third place — instead of just wins. More details and related registration forms are available at vabred.org.