Welcome Back to Hawthorne, Illinois Owners and Trainers
Message from ITHA President Chris Block
As we eagerly anticipate the start of another season of Illinois thoroughbred racing at Hawthorne Race Course, I am thrilled to extend a warm welcome back to all of our dedicated horsemen and horsewomen.
We recognize the challenges that our sport and industry continue to face. But we are excited to highlight the positives awaiting us in the forthcoming meet at Hawthorne. This year's schedule is promising, with several exciting developments to look forward to:
Extended Meet: Racing will occur from March 23 to Oct. 13, extending the meet this year by more than five weeks over last year, providing more opportunities for our horsemen and horsewomen.
Consistent Purses: Overnight purses should average close to $150,000 per day, which is similar to last year’s overnights in the first part of the meet. And, we always are advocating for some supplemental money for purses from Springfield that could bump them a bit higher.
Expanded Turf Racing: Five more weeks of turf racing are available, from late spring into mid-fall.
Increased Stakes Opportunities: Hawthorne is offering 13 stakes races, with eight races specifically dedicated to the Illinois bred program, offering greater opportunity for local breeders, trainers and owners.
Return of Illinois Derby & Carey Memorial: Hawthorne is reinstating the Illinois Derby, providing a platform for the winner to potentially embark on a journey to the prestigious Preakness, further elevating the stature of Illinois racing on the national scene. Hawthorne also is welcoming the historic Carey Memorial back to the grass course.
As we embark on this new season, I look forward to our members coming together as a community to celebrate the spirit of Illinois thoroughbred racing. Your dedication and passion help keep our sport rich and vibrant.
On behalf of the Illinois Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association, I extend my best wishes for a successful season ahead.
Warm regards,
Chris