Potential Closure of Hawthorne Race Course

Hawthorne Race Course, located in Stickney, faces potential closure as a new buyer emerges as the sole qualified bidder in bankruptcy. The site was filed for bankruptcy in February and is now dealing with debts exceeding $100 million. Records show the Delaware-based ALLIMAC 2023 LLC has offered $90 million for the 119-acre property.

Historical Context

The second race at Hawthorne Race Course in Stickney on July 3, 1924, was won by Arrowhead, who ‘came with a rush on the outside, and just got up. Top o’ the Morning was caught in the barrier and ran a winning race. Simplicity quit.’ The race, had a purse of $1,000. Arrowhead came in 1st, Top o’ the Morning in 2nd, and Simplicity 3rd.

Bankruptcy Proceedings

The offer by ALLIMAC serves as a stalking horse bid, setting the minimum price in bankruptcy court. Without other qualified bidders by the auction deadline, this makes ALLIMAC the sole buyer, pending approval by Bankruptcy Judge Timothy Barnes.

Current and Future Racing Operations

Currently, thoroughbred racing is scheduled every Sunday until November. Although Hawthorne refrained from commenting, the Illinois Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association informed members that all training and racing will continue as planned. The association’s president, Chris Block, expressed disappointment, noting hopes for a racino that never materialized.

Efforts to Sustain Operations

Horsemen have sought court approval for Hawthorne to access $1,125,000 from a state horse racing purse fund, hoping to support short-term operations. The track’s difficulties have been long-standing, compounded by declining interest in horse racing and unsuccessful plans to develop racinos after legislative authorization in 2019.

Impact of Potential Closure

If Hawthorne closes, horse racing in the Chicago area would cease. As the oldest racetrack in Illinois, Hawthorne’s shutdown would displace around 300 residents, including track workers who care for approximately 500 horses. The closure would leave Fairmount Park in Collinsville as the state’s only parimutuel betting track.

Future Developments

While there is a proposal for a new harness racing track in Decatur, legislative action remains absent. Additionally, Hawthorne officials have filed accusations in court concerning alleged improper funding diversion, a matter contested by involved parties.