Live harness racing will return to Hawthorne Race Course on Thursday (May 11) with a series of exciting opening weekend events.
As the track puts final touches on a dramatic conversion of its facility from Thoroughbred to Standardbred racing, which included removing more than 11,000 tons of sand, horsepeople and race fans are clamouring for the opportunity to win on opening weekend. Track officials are expecting full capacity fields of horses based on early entries and several thousand fans on-site to witness the extreme sport of summer harness racing.
"Harness racing is such a dynamic exciting sport that is so uniquely American," said Tim Carey, president and general manager of Hawthorne Race Course. "And we have some of the best drivers in the country who come to Hawthorne to compete. Fans will have the chance to see the best of the best race."
Hawthorne Race Course harness racing opening weekend events:
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Opening night on Thursday (May 11) with the first post at 7:10 p.m. featuring free $500 Pick-6 contest.
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Fan Friendly Fridays begin on Friday (May 12) after 5 p.m. with $2 admission and a live racing program.
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Party with Corona on Saturday (May 13) featuring live music by Bifunkal, outdoor BBQ, Corona gate giveaway and $3 retro beer night. The first 500 guests will receive a free Koozie with paid admission after 5 p.m.
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Mother's Day cash giveaway on Sunday (May 14) with opportunities to enter to win up to $1,000 in cash giveaways.
The recently opened Tito's Stable Bar featuring two-tiered TV display and reserved seating along with private booths with TVs for personal viewing offers the ultimate racing experience. For more information or to make reservations, please contact guest services at 708-780-3733.
Summer racing schedule:
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General admission is $2
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Hawthorne Race Course is located at 3501 S. Laramie in Stickney, Ill. (half-mile north of I-55 on Cicero Avenue).
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Live harness racing begins on May 11 through Sept. 24 on Thursdays-Sundays.
For the complete 2017 racing schedule, go to hawthorneracecourse.com.
(Hawthorne Race Course)