The Hawthorne Race Course in suburban Chicago is at a crossroads, with bankruptcy proceedings casting a shadow over its future. Recent court hearings have revealed the stark reality facing the track, its workers, and the horses that call it home. The situation is complex, with financial constraints and legal considerations intertwining to create a challenging landscape for all involved.
The track’s bankruptcy filing in February 2026 has set in motion a series of events that have led to this pivotal moment. With racing operations already suspended and a sale of the property imminent, the focus has shifted to the well-being of the backstretch community and the resolution of outstanding financial obligations.
The End of Racing at Hawthorne?
During a recent bankruptcy hearing, Judge Timothy Barnes of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Illinois made a telling statement: “I’m not talking about finding a source of funding to continue racing. I think that ship has sailed.” This remark underscored the grim outlook for racing enthusiasts and stakeholders who had hoped for a continuation of the sport at Hawthorne.
The track had sought funding from the Illinois Department of Agriculture to cover purse payments through July, but the agency had not authorized the requested $1.125 million. As a result, no purses have been paid for July, leaving horsemen in a precarious financial situation. The track’s attorney, Barry Chatz confirmed that while there are funds to pay employees through July 30, this does not extend to purse payments for the horsemen.
The Plight of the Backstretch Community
The backstretch community, comprising approximately 500 people and a similar number of horses, faces an uncertain future. Judge Barnes expressed concern about the constitutional responsibility to protect the health and public welfare of those living on the backstretch. He emphasized that the court must consider the well-being of these individuals as the bankruptcy proceedings unfold.
Attorneys for Hawthorne noted that the earliest possible closing date for the sale of the property is July 30. However, this timeline raises concerns about the ability of the backstretch community to relocate in such a short period. The stalking-horse contract, which outlines the terms of the sale, does not specifically address the people and horses living on the backstretch, adding to the complexity of the situation.
Kevin Morse, attorney for the Illinois Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association (ITHA) highlighted the need for time and financial assistance to support the backstretch workers. He reported that approximately $1.5 million had been secured from creditors to help keep the community housed in the coming months. Morse expressed optimism that additional funding could be obtained to meet the estimated $2.5 million needed to support the workers until they can move to other tracks for the winter season.
Local Lawmakers and the Buyer’s Stance
The situation facing the backstretch workers has garnered the attention of local lawmakers, including Illinois state representative Lisa Hernandez and state senators Javier Cervantes and Patrick Joyce. They released a statement urging Hawthorne’s buyer to protect the backstretch community.
Chad Husnick, attorney for the stalking-horse bidder Allimac 2026 indicated a willingness to wait until November 1 to close on the transaction. This timeframe aligns with the recommendation made by counsel for the ITHA. Husnick stressed that the buyer is interested in acquiring the property as-is and is not planning to take possession of the property with people and horses living on it. However, he expressed a commitment to finding a solution that works for everyone involved.
The Missed Opportunity of Gaming at Illinois Racetracks
David McCaffrey, executive director of the ITHA, lamented the missed opportunity presented by the law allowing gaming at Illinois racetracks. He highlighted the potential benefits of a racino model, which has proven effective in other states with a thriving racing industry. McCaffrey emphasized that the approval of a gaming bill in 2019 could have provided a lifeline for Hawthorne and other tracks facing financial challenges.
The bankruptcy proceedings have also shed light on the broader implications for the racing industry in Illinois. With Hawthorne’s demise, Fairmount Park remains the last operating track in the state, raising questions about the future of horse racing in the region.
As the bankruptcy proceedings continue, the focus remains on finding a resolution that addresses the needs of the backstretch community, resolves outstanding financial obligations, and ensures a fair and transparent sale of the property. The outcome of these proceedings will have far-reaching implications for the racing industry and the stakeholders involved.
