NEW KENT COUNTY, Va. – Colonial Downs will shut down all of its locations and end online betting services Wednesday.
Colonial Downs said the shutdown is the result of legislation that will pull two million dollars of funding from the state.
This means anyone who bets online will need to empty and close his or her accounts, which can be done on the phone or at aColonial Downs location before the end of the month. The racetrack will then begin issuing checks back to the customer.
Colonial Downs made the announcement as the area's last off track betting site on Broad Street in Richmond closed Tuesday.
Supporters said news of the closure is a blow to the sport in Virginia and they fear the move will hurt those who breed horses.
“I think people who raise horses should have a chance to race them somewhere in Virginia,” Paul Hite, a fan of the sport, said.
Colonial Downs announced they would close last year after a disagreement with the state’s racing commission over how many thoroughbred races should be held.
EZ Horseplaycustomers need to close their accounts to withdraw balances:
- Withdraw funds at one of the 75 sites around Virginia that has a kiosk before the end
of April. - Contact the business office 1-877-374-7907 to have a check mailed for the balance
of the account.
