Courtesy of Colonial Downs:

NEW KENT, Virginia (April 24, 2014) - On August 23rd, we look forward to welcoming motorcycle racing enthusiasts from around the country to New Kent, Virginia for the 2nd annual Virginia Mega Mile! Colonial Downs is one of only 3 east coast stops on the 2014 AMA Pro Flat Track circuit, and features the largest flat track oval in the world, where the country’s top riders compete at speeds of over 130 miles per hour!

Whether you make the Mega Mile event a day trip, weekend getaway or week-long stay, keep in mind that Colonial Downs is conveniently located halfway between the markets of Richmond and Williamsburg, Virginia. Coming from parts west? We’d suggest staying at any of the nice Shamin Hotels that are at the Richmond airport area (I-64, Exit 197). Colonial Downs is a bit father east at Exit 214, so it is only a short 15-20 minute ride out to the track. We have special rates at all 6 of their airport properties. If you’d like to book a group of rooms, call Elaine Odom at 804-532-1003. There is a $92 rate at Homewood Suites (804-737-1600) and $79 at Holiday Inn Express (804-222-1499). Other hotels and rates are at colonialdowns.com, under the “Visit The Track” header, and a “Plan Your Itinerary” option. Please ask for the Colonial Downs rate at whichever hotel you book. If you are coming from parts east? Williamsburg will be the closest area with nice hotels. New Kent County also has several campgrounds and very nice Bed & Breakfast locations.

New Kent is very historic as is Richmond & Williamsburg. There is no shortage of outstanding attractions in all markets. Colonial Williamsburg is centered between Yorktown & Jamestown by the Colonial Parkway. The Parkway goes along the York River and makes for a wonderful motorcycle ride -- -20 miles total from Jamestown to Yorktown. Yorktown has plenty of waterside restaurants to grab a beer or meal including the Yorktown Pub, which is popular with bikers. In Richmond, a motorcycle ride along Route 5 will bring you past many historic plantations and the James River. Two popular biker establishments are Poe’s Pub (Route 5 in Richmond --- the Church Hill section) and Quaker Steak, a popular bike establishment in Richmond’s west end.

In New Kent itself, there are 2 outstanding wineries --- New Kent Vineyards & Saude Creek Vineyards, both minutes from the track. This could be a great day of activity before you come to the races. New Kent County also offers a nice selection of restaurants to enjoy lunch, dinner or drinks at The Rose & Crown, Antonio’s, Third Base Grill, Maria’s Italian Café & Sports Bar and more. Look for official pre and after party locations to be announced soon! As an FYI, Mega Mile gates open at 12 noon, timed practice is at 1:30 PM, opening ceremonies at 3:30 PM and racing from 4-7 PM. The pit area will be open both before and after the races.

In the coming days, we’ll be adding proposed itineraries on the Mega Mile page on our website to give you even more options. Of course, Virginia Beach is only 90 minutes east of Colonial Downs as another option, and Williamsburg features Busch Gardens and Water Country.

For more information regarding the event, please call 804-966-7223 or visit colonialdowns.com.