The Illinois Racing Board has suspended the harness racing license for Hawthorne Race Course in Stickney, citing the track's failure to demonstrate financial integrity. This action follows canceled races and bounced checks, jeopardizing the remaining events this season. Industry leaders express concern over the track's viability amid ongoing financial struggles.
The Illinois Racing Board announced on January 27, 2026, the suspension of the harness racing license held by Suburban Downs, Inc., the organization managing Hawthorne Race Course's harness meet in Stickney, Illinois. The decision stems from the track's inability to provide required financial documentation, including bank statements requested on January 15, proving its operating fund and compliance with state standards under the Illinois Horse Racing Act of 1975.
This follows the board's earlier cancellation of races scheduled for January 3-4 due to the failure to submit surety bonds. Jeff Davis, president of the Illinois Harness Horsemen's Association, highlighted severe payment issues: "We don't really know details, but what we do know is people have not been paid since before Christmas." He added that checks began bouncing, leading to the cancellation of races over recent weekends, with one example being a $400 check to a trainer that could not be cashed six weeks ago.
IRB Executive Director Domenic DiCera described the move as "a very difficult decision," noting the track's financial difficulties prevented it from operating the 34 harness race dates awarded for 2026. A letter sent on January 26 to Tim Carey, owner and CEO of Suburban Downs, referenced violations of administrative code regarding dishonored checks. The board indicated it could reinstate the license if the issues are resolved and documentation provided.
Hawthorne, the Chicago area's only racetrack and a century-old venue, faces broader challenges. Efforts to secure a casino partnership have stalled for nearly six years, which industry observers like Ray Paulick of the Paulick Report say is essential for survival: "Horse racing in every state now only survives because it has additional forms of revenue from casinos, slot machines." The track holds veto rights over new facilities within 35 miles, but harness horsemen are pushing legislation to repeal this exclusivity.
Davis lamented the situation: "It really is sad. It's a 100-year-old business." The board's next meeting on January 28 will include an update from Hawthorne's owner, with the remaining three races this season unlikely without proof of financial stability. Officials at Hawthorne have not commented.
