Hawthorne Racecourse (3/23/12)
Contact: Jim Miller
(708) 780-3700
Two weeks until Illinois Derby
Today we get a little break from the recent record high temperatures, but it still looks to be a very comfortable day as we had morning rain, but expected clearing skies for the afternoon with temps in the 60s. Our track was closed early for training to prepare for the rain and for races. Currently we are listed as “Good” but there is a possibly that we may be “Fast” by the opener, if the showers stay away.
Tomorrow puts us only two weeks away from the 55th running of the Grade III $500,000 Illinois Derby. For horsemen, tomorrow also marks the final day for late nominations for the race as at that point we will get a better idea of who is pointing for our race. On April 7, we will have a lot going on as we have a 10-race card for Illinois Derby day that will also feature the $60,000 Added Cryptoclearance Stakes for older horses. Both races will be shown live on WGN as part of our hour long coverage of the only Illinois prep for the Kentucky Derby.
Tomorrow we will have another of our Pool Parties at Hawthorne as Mark Grote from WSCR Radio will be on site to host our popular event. For only $20, fans will enjoy two hours of food and beverages along with sharing in any of Mark’s winning wagers. Win or not, the pool parties are always fun and the food and drink alone make up for the cost.
This weekend, we will also have our handicapping contests as we continue to get fans lined up for qualify for the NTRA National Handicapping Championships. Additionally, we will have our Turf Club open for diners Saturday with a special buffet. The weekend weather looks great, and the racing is strong as well.
Here’s the early changes for Friday:
Today’s Early Changes
Main Track – Good
Race 1
Scratch #4 – Fashion Lady
Race 2
Scratch #3 – Summer Again
#5 – Jockey – Q. Hamilton
Race 6
Scratch #3 – Lewderhoo
#8 – Jockey – B. Meier
Race 7
Scratch #4 – Kissagrey
Race 8
Scratch #3 – Inexcessive Sue
#6 – Jockey – T. Riggs
Scratch #13 – Madillac D’Ville
Race 9
Scratch #4 – Nathan Chicago
#9 – Jockey – O. Mojica
