ITHA Secures Additional $1.44 Million for Hawthorne Thoroughbred Purse Account

The ITHA's diligence and advocacy at the Illinois Capitol has paid dividends for Illinois owners and trainers: state lawmakers agreed, before completing their spring legislative session on Wednesday, to transfer surplus dollars in the state's Horse Racing Fund to Hawthorne purses.

That means Hawthorne purses this summer will enjoy a boost of $1.44 million. We anticipate those funds will be available in the form of higher purses by the end of July. Thoroughbred purses at FanDuel/Fairmount separately will enjoy another $800,000 as a result of ITHA's initiative.

"Persistence paid off," said Chris Block, president of the ITHA. "Our leadership and lobbying teams remained focused since the start of session on obtaining these funds. We're thrilled to report that we accomplished our objective — and that, as a result, our members will benefit."

The ITHA extends its sincere gratitude to all legislators continuing to support our efforts to preserve and invigorate the sport and industry of Illinois thoroughbred racing. We also thank the Illinois Racing Board for backing our fund-transfer request this spring.