Hawthorne Race Course

Contact: Mitch Demick (708) 222-4542

Lissa’s Star Shakes Free in Hula Chief Stakes

Lissa's Star all alone in the Hula Chief Stakes

Stickney, IL – The connections of Lissa’s Star had already done pretty well with their $25,000 claim, having picked up checks in all five of Lissa’s Star’s subsequent starts, for new owner John Carmen. On Saturday in the Hula Chief Stakes, the claim really paid dividends, when the 6-year-old romped by 10 ¾ lengths over four overmatched rivals in the six-furlong race for 4-year-olds and upward. The time for the race was a robust 1:10.16 over a fast track.

Always prominent, Lissa’s Star, under jockey Inez Karlsson, pressed the pace set by Dakota Rebel, and was about a length behind as the leader reached the quarter in 22.95. Approaching the half, the winning duo put away Dakota Rebel, and thereafter were never seriously challenged. Shadowbdancing tried staying with the winner but was no match, although clearly second best. Post time favorite Officer Rocket, away a beat slow, was along for third.

The victory was Lissa’s Star’s third straight and his $30,750 reward for victory pushed his lifetime earnings to $221,310.

Second choice in the wagering, Lissa’s Star returned $8.60 to win.

The Estate of Thomas Carey has owned and operated Hawthorne Race Course for 100 years, distinguishing it as the oldest continuously family-owned and operated race track in the nation. As the oldest sports venue in Illinois, Hawthorne Race Course has been an integral player in the legendary heritage of Chicago sports entertainment. Hawthorne Race Course begins its Spring Thoroughbred meet on Friday, March 6, 2009 and will continue through April 27, 2009. Post time is 1:25 pm central time for all live racing. Dark days will be Tuesday and Wednesdays. We are located at 3501 S. Laramie Avenue, Cicero, IL 60804. For more information on Hawthorne Race Course visit www.hawthorneracecourse.com or call 708-780-3700.