The 76th running of the Virginia Gold Cup took place on Saturday, May 5th atGreat Meadow in The Plains, Virginia. A tradition in Fauquier County datingback to 1922, the steeplechase classic is a fixture of the Washington social calendar.A breezy, beautiful day greeted the horsey set, local business and politicalleaders, and their families, who came out for the food, socializing, and racewatching. Stylish hats are an event tradition, and this year special prizes wereawarded for the most stylish and most outlandish chapeaux at a sponsoredcompetition. Ticket sales from the race benefit the Meadow OutdoorsFoundation for year-round community activities at Great Meadow.