There's something about going to a horse race that just feels exciting. Granted, the only ones I've been to have involved a bus load of sorority sisters, plenty of personalized "chug mugs" and only the smallest glimpse of a horse riding by.

But the thought of actually attending a horse race for the race, dressed in an overly-large hat and the thrill of betting on a winning thoroughbred has always thrilled me.

And while I may have missed my chance at attending any of the three grand champion races during the Triple Crown, there's nothing stopping me, or any other Richmonder, from enjoying the much anticipated 2008 Virginia Derby taking place in our own backyard at Colonial Downs this weekend.

Each year, as celebrated three-year old turf horses take to the track with their fearlessly trained jockeys on board, nearly 9,000 fans will pack together trackside for their own piece of the action.

Beginning as early as 8 a.m., Derby fans can enter to participate in a little pre-Virginia Derby 5k fun. Runners will meet to pick up their packets and, if they haven't done so online already, register for the race.

The registration fee, set at $20, not only includes the race, but a commemorative Derby Day tote bag and admission to "Picnic on the Turn" as well. Looking for a little more action? Upgrade to yourself to the Trackside Party for an addition $20.

Those wanting to participate in the Virginia Derby 5k may register in advance online at kalerunning.com.

The first of ten races begins at the post time of 12:55 p.m., but chances are you'll want to arrive a little earlier to get in on all the fun.

While general admission to the track is only $5, Colonial Downs is offering race lovers and betters the chance to play with the ponies on turn one or with the Clydesdales in the official Virginia Derby Party Zone.

For $10 families, friends and avid racing fans are invited to bring their own picnic full of snacks and non-alcoholic beverages and a comfortable chair or blanket to enjoy the race within the comforts of "Picnic on the Turn," located at turn one. Think of it as a BYOB invitation, but BYOF (Bring Your Own Food) instead.

A betting tent, food and beverage concessions, closed-circuit televisions and a DJ will all be there to keep the party going at full speed.

But if you're willing to up the ante, like a true gambling connoisseur would, $25 in advance and $30 on the day of the race, will gain you access to the official Virginia Derby Party Zone, complete with a deluxe barbeque lunch, three beer, wine or soft drink tickets and live music by Red Line and D3.

Party Zoners can enter into the Lite 98 Fancy Hat Contest and regardless of the outcome, will walk away from their day of horse racing and betting with an official Derby program, a commemorative Colonial Down's Derby Day tote bag and Come-Back Admission Pass.

The official $750,000 Virginia Derby Race will begin at 5:45 p.m. where the competition will really heat up. And if you do plan on betting, whether it be a little or your entire life savings, we have only one piece of advice to offer. And no, it's not a "don't do it" plea.

Bottom line: bring cash.

The favored horse of the Derby is Sailor's Cap, winner of this year's Colonial Turf Cup. In at a close second is Gio Ponti, a Breeder's Cup winner who has only been beaten once in his life.

If you simply cannot, in no way, shape or form, make it to the track on Saturday, then sit back, relax in your Lay-Z-Boy and make sure to have your television ready to tune into CBS Sports promptly at 5 p.m.
 

• The 2008 Virginia Derby will take place from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, July 19 at Colonial Downs. General admission is $5 and reserved grand-stand seats are $10. Children ages 12 and under are free. Tickets for "Picnic on the Turn" are $10 for adults and children ages 12 and under are free. Tickets for the Virginia Derby Party Zone are $25 in advance, $30 day of the race and $15 for children. For more information and to purchase tickets in advance, call (804) 966-7223 or visit colonialdowns.com.