The Illinois Racing Board announced on Monday, Jan. 26, 2026 that it has suspended the Organization License of Suburban Downs, Inc., operator of Hawthorne Race Course.

The Illinois Racing Board suspended the Organization License of Suburban Downs, Inc. for failure to provide documentation demonstrating its financial integrity, and proof that they can meet the minimum standards outlined in the Horse Racing Act and rules contained in Title 11 of the Illinois Administrative Code. The action to suspend Suburban Downs's authorization to operate in Illinois follows Board action to cancel Jan. 3-4, 2026 races for failure to submit required surety bonds.

On Oct. 9, 2025, the Illinois Racing Board ratified the 2026 Dates Order, which awarded Suburban Downs, Inc. an Organization License that includes 34 harness race days. All licenses granted by the Illinois Racing Board are subject to the Illinois Horse Racing Act of 1975 and all applicable administrative rules outlined in Title 11 of the Illinois Administrative Code.

"Today the Illinois Racing Board made a very difficult decision to suspend the operating license of Suburban Downs," said Domenic DiCera, IRB Executive Director. "On January 15, IRB requested bank statements that reflect the operating fund, and any fund related to racing operations at Suburban Downs. Unfortunately, their financial difficulties, including failure to provide financial documents showing their ability to operate assigned 2026 race dates, have led us to suspend their license."

In a Jan. 26, 2026 letter to Tim Carey, Owner/CEO of Suburban Downs, Inc., the Illinois Racing Board cited Section 230 ILCS 5/9(g) of the Horse Racing Act that states, "The Board may require that the records, including financial or other statements of any licensee or any person affiliated with the licensee who is involved directly or indirectly in the activities of any licensee as regulated under this Act to the extent that those financial or other statements relate to such activities be kept in such manner as prescribed by the Board, and that Board employees shall have access to those records during reasonable business hours." The letter also outlines violations of 11 Ill. Adm in Code 1314.120, which states, "If track pays any purse by cheque, which upon presentation is dishonoured, the matter shall immediately be referred to the Board for disposition."

The Board will consider reinstating the licenses of Suburban Downs, Inc. should they cure the violations and provide documentation demonstrating they meet the minimum standards, including but not limited to its financial integrity, under the Act and rules contained in Title 11 of the Illinois Administrative Code.

(With files from Illinois Racing Board)