Horse racing will return to Illinois tracks this month. The state Department of Agriculture worked to bring spectator-free standardbred and thoroughbred racing back on tracks while adhering to social distancing guidelines.
Races will be hosted two nights per week on Saturdays and Sundays beginning June 6 at Hawthorne Race Course.
“These conditions necessitate changes to keep horse racing going in Illinois,” said Domenic DiCera, Illinois Racing Board executive director. “The return of live horse racing is welcomed by many hardworking men and women committed to this industry.”
The acting director of the Ag department, Jerry Costello II, said safety guidelines for social distancing of personnel while at the track, as well as the other precautions to protect the horseman will allow for a safe racing environment.
Only licensed essential personnel for the care of racehorses, and those necessary to conduct live racing will be allowed on the grounds. Wagering will take place online since no spectators are allowed in the venues.
The new protocols require a minimal increase in on-site staffing and strict adherence to social distancing and other health safety guidelines.
“On behalf of the entire industry, we’re very thankful to the Governor and the Department of Agriculture for working with us to create a solution that recognizes the unique needs and challenges of horseracing,” said Tim Carey, president and general manager of Hawthorne Race Course.
Hawthorne estimates that no more than 25 additional people will be required at the 113-acre facility to conduct live racing as compared to care and training-only operations and that racing will be possible under recommended social distancing guidelines.
“Horsemen are very resilient by nature, but this change comes just in time for our members,” said Tony Somone, executive director of the Illinois Harness Horsemen Association. “On average it costs $1,500 a month to take care of a racehorse whether it’s racing and earning money or not. Most trainers have between five and 10 horses and we haven’t been racing for nearly three months so many of these businesses are at a breaking point.”
