Important Backstretch Policies Effective April 19

As we approach the start of the meet, Hawthorne management has asked us to share several important policies that will be enforced on the backstretch beginning April 19 (opening day). These steps are aimed at improving safety, cleanliness, and fairness for everyone living and working on the backside.

1. Vehicles and Trailers

• Trailer stickers required by April 19
  All horse trailers parked on the Hawthorne backstretch must have a Hawthorne-issued sticker so that ownership can be identified.

  • Stickers are available from Irma in the backside security office.

  • Any trailer without a sticker after April 19 will be subject to towing.

• No overnight vehicle parking on the backside (effective April 19)

  • All vehicles must be off the backstretch by 8:00 PM each night.

  • If you must stay later (for example, to treat a sick horse), you must notify security in advance.

  • Vehicles left after 8:00 PM without prior notice will be subject to towing.

2. Animals in Barns

To maintain a safe and sanitary barn area, only specific animals will be allowed in the barns:

• Allowed in barns:

  • Horses

  • Barn cats

  • Goats (must be secured within a stall)

• Not allowed in barns (including the pony barn):

  • Chickens

  • Ducks

  • Dogs

  • Any other non-thoroughbred animals

All unapproved animals must be removed from the barns by April 19. Failure to comply will result in referral to the stewards and may lead to fines.

3. Dorm Rooms and Backside Housing

Dorm rooms are intended for individuals who are actively working on the Hawthorne backstretch. Management will be enforcing the following:

• Improper use of dorm rooms

  • Rooms occupied by people who do not work for trainers will be addressed on a case-by-case basis.

  • Rooms used only for storage, or by people who no longer live at the track, will be revoked.

  • Individuals using rooms for storage will receive one week to clear out their belongings before items are discarded.

• Residents not working for a trainer

  • Residents who do not work for a trainer will receive a two-week notice to vacate their room.

  • Rooms will not be provided for horse owners or jockey agents.

• Jockey housing

  • Jockeys will only be offered rooms in Barn 3C.

  • Jockeys who choose not to accept a room there will need to arrange off-site housing.

• Room allocation guideline

  • Hawthorne is moving back toward the guideline of one dorm room per five horses.

  • In situations where a trainer may need one or two additional rooms, those cases will be reviewed individually.

Management is aware that some elderly individuals and others may be affected by these changes. They have indicated they will work with RICF to help find appropriate placement for those who no longer work with horses but are currently living on the backside.

Irma will work with Leo to notify anyone who must vacate or clear out a room. Once notice is given and the time period has passed, any remaining items may be removed and discarded.

These policies are being put in place to ensure that housing and facilities on the Hawthorne backside are available to those who work there and to maintain a safer, more organized living and working environment. Your cooperation and assistance in following and reinforcing these rules are appreciated as we head into the meet.

If you have any questions about these policies or how they may affect you or your employees, please contact us or speak with Hawthorne security/management.