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Hawthorne Race Course

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Hawthorne Race Course in Illinois holds the distinction of being one of the oldest racetracks in the United States. Its rich history sets it apart, but there are exciting developments on the horizon.

In the near future, Hawthorne Race Course is set to transform into Chicago's inaugural "Racino," combining traditional equestrian racing with state-of-the-art gambling facilities.

Anticipated to open in 2024, this eagerly awaited $400-million racino will offer a thrilling blend of on-course horse racing and glamorous gambling halls.

About Hawthorne Race Course

The tale of Hawthorne Race Course begins in 1890 when Edward Corrigan, a prominent Chicago businessman, and racehorse owner, acquired a parcel of land in Cicero, IL following his victory at the Kentucky Derby.

The following year, Corrigan established his own racetrack, laying the foundation for the legendary Hawthorne Race Course. With the exception of a hiatus imposed by Chicago authorities from 1905 to 1922, Hawthorne Race Course has maintained an unbroken legacy of hosting top-tier horse racing events.

Distinguished as Chicago's Hometown Track, it holds a unique distinction in the United States as the sole race course offering year-round competitions for both thoroughbred and standardbred horses.

Notable race meetings include three Grade 3 stakes: the Hawthorne Gold Cup Handicap, the Illinois Derby, and the Sixty Sails Handicap.

Can I bet on sports at the Hawthorne Race Course?

Yes, you can bet on sports at Hawthorne Race Track in Illinois. Hawthorne Race Track has partnered with PointsBet Sportsbook to offer sports betting facilities to its visitors.

Hawthorne Race Course and PointsBet Sportsbook partnership

Hawthorne Race Course has entered into a 20-year partnership with PointsBet sportsbook, facilitating a special sportsbook area within the clubhouse dedicated to sports betting.

Visitors aged 21 and above can unwind while witnessing live broadcasts of major sporting events on large screens. Concurrently, attendees are welcome to partake in wagering on the anticipated outcomes of these events.

How to place a horse bet on Hawthorne Race Course

Placing a bet at the Hawthorne Race Course is a straightforward process, especially if you're new to horse betting in Illinois. Here is a beginner's guide to help you navigate through the wagering process:

  1. Select the racecourse and race type: Hawthorne Race Course features two tracks, namely turf and dirt, and offers thoroughbred and trotting races. Check the schedule to determine which event captures your interest.
  2. Choose a specific race and determine your wager amount: Upon arriving at the course, you can acquire a race card that provides comprehensive details about the participating horses and jockeys for the day's races. Identify the races on which you wish to place your bets and decide on the amount you're willing to stake.
  3. Decide on the type of wager: Various betting options are available to suit different preferences. The simplest wager is to back a horse to win the race. Alternatively, you can opt for a place bet, which involves selecting a horse expected to finish among the top three. For those seeking higher odds, exactas, trifectas, and superfectas require predicting the top two, three, or four horses in the correct order, respectively. Additionally, you can create parlays by choosing winners from multiple races on the card.
  4. Make your horse selection(s): Horse racing enthusiasts may analyze factors such as form and breeding to inform their choices. On the other hand, casual bettors might rely on factors like a horse's name or colors. Ultimately, the decision is entirely up to you.
  5. Place your bet: Ready to proceed? Simply visit any of the on-course betting kiosks and inform the attendant about your desired wager, specifying the horse(s) and type of bet. Make sure to pay the designated stake amount. It's important to retain your betting slip as you will need it to collect any potential winnings.

Contact & opening hours

Address: Hawthorne Race Course, 3501 S. Laramie, Stickney/Cicero, IL 60804
Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday, 8am-11pm; Friday, Saturday, 8am-1am.
Website: hawthorneracecourse.com
Phone number: 708-780-3700

FAQ

Are there any hotels near the Hawthorne Race Course?

Yes, the Hawthorne Race Course does have hotels close by. The race course does not currently have its own hotel. However, there are nearby options. The Carlton Inn Midway is closest at 2.1 miles, while Chicago airport is just 3.8 miles away and has many hotels.

When will the casino open at the Hawthorne Race Course?

It is taking longer than expected, but the casino at the Hawthorne Race Course is still due to open in 2024.

Is there free parking at the Hawthorne Race Course?

Yes, there is free parking at the Hawthorne Race Course. There are an estimated 7,500 off-site parking spaces in the vicinity of the course and much of this general parking is free. In addition, the course has on-site parking for 2,500 vehicles priced at $3 ($5 for valet parking)

Can I bet on Hawthorne Race Track from other locations?

Away from the track, Hawthorne also operates the biggest network of licensed betting bars in Illinois. There are 16 venues across the state, available in licensed casinos and Club Hawthorne bars. Here, as well as backing horses, you can watch and wager on a range of other sports.