The fate of Hawthorne Race Course hangs in the balance, as a potential auction to save the historic Chicago track appears to have fallen through. With only one bidder offering $90 million for the site, the future of racing at Hawthorne is uncertain.
This development raises a host of questions and concerns, not just for the track itself but for the entire racing industry in the region. The potential loss of Hawthorne would leave a significant gap in the Chicago racing scene, impacting not only Thoroughbred racing but also the Standardbred community.
The Impact on the Racing Community
The sole bidder, a Delaware-registered entity, plans to demolish the track for industrial development. This move would displace some 450 employees and their families who call the backstretch home. The potential loss of jobs and the disruption to these families' lives is a significant concern.
Furthermore, the cessation of racing at Hawthorne would leave the Chicago area without an active track, forcing horses and horsemen to seek opportunities elsewhere. Fairmount Park, the only other Illinois track, could see an influx of horses, but this would create a strain on resources and potentially impact the quality of racing.
A History of Financial Woes
Hawthorne's financial troubles have been building for some time. The track's initial efforts to build a racino, with the support of the Illinois Gaming Board, ultimately failed due to funding issues. The grandstand demolition project came to a halt, and the track found itself in a spiral of debt and unpaid bills.
Despite repeated claims by Hawthorne's CEO, Tim Carey, of interest from entities willing to invest over $100 million to continue racing and develop a racino, these deals never materialized. The track's bankruptcy filing in February 2026 was the culmination of these financial struggles.
A Veto and a Waiting Developer
The potential end of racing at Hawthorne also has implications for the Standardbred community. The Illinois legislature authorized a harness-only track in the south Chicago suburbs, but Carey held a veto on any such plans. With Hawthorne's potential demise, at least one developer is poised to apply for that license, offering a glimmer of hope for Standardbred racing in the state.
Uncertain Future
As we await the final decision from Judge Timothy Barnes, the future of Hawthorne and its racing community hangs in the balance. The potential loss of this historic track would be a significant blow to the industry, impacting jobs, families, and the very fabric of racing in the Chicago area.
In my opinion, it's crucial that we consider the broader implications of these developments and the potential ripple effects they could have on the racing industry as a whole. The story of Hawthorne is a cautionary tale, highlighting the fragility of racing venues and the need for sustainable financial models.
