The Illinois Racing Board has approved a delay in the start of the Hawthorne Race Course Thoroughbred meeting from March 29 to April 19 as the track navigates Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings. This postponement allows time to convert the racing surface for training and for horsemen to prepare for competition. Despite financial challenges and a suspension of its harness racing license, Hawthorne officials remain committed to a reorganization plan aimed at keeping the track operational rather than selling the property for redevelopment.

Hawthorne filed for bankruptcy on February 27, facing significant debt and back payments owed to horsemen. The track secured emergency court authorization to use part of a $16 million bankruptcy cash infusion to resume operations, though over a month of preparation time was lost. Horsemen are actively working to attract participants, with about 180 to 200 horses currently on-site and more expected from other regions. A bankruptcy court hearing on March 27 will address additional funding, including payments to harness horsemen whose season was cut short.