The ITHA stands behind all other horsemen’s associations in other jurisdictions where there are disputes and they support the ITHA in the endeavors we encounter. The ITHA website will provide updates on breaking news pertaining to the Illinois racing industry and Illinois horsemen so that all members can stay informed on the latest issues. The ITHA provides a Claiming Benevolence for all eligible members. The benevolence is at a 50% rate up to $20,000. Both the owner and trainer must have a card on file with the ITHA office prior to the race. (Contact the ITHA office for more details.)

The ITHA maintains full-time employees that will assist with horsemen and horsewomen with any paperwork pertaining to racing (Bill of Sale, Notary, Fax, etc.) The ITHA also provides assistance in bloodstock research, past performances, and race charts. The ITHA provides representation to any horse industry function or meeting and also represents horsemen at the state capital in Springfield.  We also employ a political lobbyist for the horsemen needs.  This lobbyist is not associated with any other horsemen’s group in Illinois.

The ITHA retains excellent General Counsel and Certified Public Accountants to oversee contract negotiations, purse accounts, and elections. The ITHA carefully inspects each contract and simulcast schedule prior to each live thoroughbred meet. The ITHA office provides 250 race day programs for owners and trainers, plus complimentary copies of the Daily Racing Form and other racing publications for horsemen’s convenience. Tongue tie is made available to horsemen in the paddock.

The Executive Director along with the IRB inspects weekly the horsemen’s purse account. An updated purse report is made available to the public via the ITHA webpage. Two representatives of the ITHA are on the advisory council of the Department of Agriculture. The ITHA maintains a close working relationship with other racing associations in Illinois and across the United States to monitor issues important to the membership.

The ITHA keeps an open line of communication with race track management at both Arlington Park and Hawthorne Race Course as well as the Illinois Racing Board. A monthly article will be provided to the Illinois Racing News. Every year the ITHA has an audit conducted. The ITHA maintains an open door policy and will answer any questions. The goal of the ITHA is to represent the ALL horsemen to the best of our ability.

The Illinois Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association provides leadership and service to the finest horsemen we know, the Horsemen of Illinois.