Chris Block, the President of the Illinois Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association, discusses the recent events at Hawthorne and the future of Illinois racing.

ITHA President Appears on 'At the Races with Steve Byk' to Discuss the Future of Racing at Hawthorne

John Walsh, assistant general manager at Hawthorne Race Course, appeared before the Illinois Racing Board on Wednesday and reaffirmed the track's commitment to building a racino. He said — as track officials have said repeatedly since the Illinois legislature authorized a casino for Hawthorne nearly seven years ago — that such a deal is imminent.

The Illinois Racing Board is meeting at 1 p.m. today. Hawthorne officials are scheduled to speak to the IRB following the public comment segment — the first item on the meeting agenda — about the track's severe financial challenges.

During the public comment segment at the start of the meeting, ITHA President Chris Block will speak on behalf of all thoroughbred owners and trainers eager to know whether Hawthorne has the wherewithal to host — and complete — the thoroughbred meet planned for this year.

ITHA President Chris Block to Speak to IRB on Wednesday

The ITHA is sharing the below message to keep our members informed about events at Hawthorne Race Course that might affect the thoroughbred meet scheduled to begin on Sunday, March 29.

The ITHA is sharing the message to keep our members informed about events at Hawthorne Race Course that might affect the thoroughbred meet scheduled to begin on Sunday, March 29.

This is a positive development, to be sure, but the recent events relating to Hawthorne’s financial condition are deeply troubling.

Warmest Greetings this Holiday Season & Best Wishes for Racing Success in the New Year

As We Await Hawthorne's Deadline for Action, ITHA Members Deserve Praise for Perseverance

"We are fortunate to have such passionate and committed members," said Chris Block, the ITHA president. "Thank you to all the candidates for stepping up, sharing your vision, and offering your time to this association. I also want to thank every member who voted — your engagement helps ensure that our leadership truly reflects the goals and values of the people we serve."

The Illinois Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association is deeply saddened by the passing of Rudy Tarra. He was a respected and valued member of the Illinois racing community whose contributions as an owner, breeder, and gentleman of the sport will be long remembered. The ITHA extends heartfelt condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.

Any Thoroughbred Trainer who wishes to stable at Hawthorne through the winter must fill out a stall application. Applications are due, Sunday October 19, 2025.

The Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association (THA) will be hosting a webinar Monday, Sept. 29, that will cover backstretch workforce topics such as I-9 audits and legal risks. The webinar will be conducted by attorneys Chris Thomas and Jay Ingle.

Purse money the ITHA fought for, and won, in Springfield finally arrived at Hawthorne. As a result, effective this Thursday (9/25) attached are the categories of purse increases.

Racing Will Run from Sunday, March 29 to Sunday, November 1

ITHA President Chris Block Calls Purse Structure 'Woefully Inadequate,' Calls on Hawthorne to At Last Finalize Casino Deal

The ITHA is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Governor Jim Edgar. A longtime horse racing owner, breeder, and devoted supporter, Governor Edgar’s contributions to the sport were immeasurable. His passion and commitment to the racing industry left a lasting impact, and he will be profoundly missed.

Friday (9/12) at the Hawthorne track kitchen. Food will be provided at 10:30AM and the meeting will begin at 11:00AM.

Three Owner and Two Trainer-Director Seats Are Up for Election

Self-Nomination Forms Must Be Returned to ITHA, or Postmarked, by Friday, Sept. 26

The Illinois Backstretch Charitable Foundation proudly awarded these students with a total of $39,500 to help them pursue higher education

“Tom was a longtime, very successful agent on the Chicagoland racing circuit who launched and oversaw the careers of many jockeys. He was extremely dedicated to Chicago horsemen, racing and will be extremely missed by all.” - President Block