Handle, Field Size Improve at Hawthorne Meet
Description:
Despite a very wet month of April, handle and field size for the recently concluded spring meet at Hawthorne increased over 2016. On average, daily handle for the 2017 spring meet was $1,352,173, an uptick from the $1,343,819 wagered per day in 2016. Field size for the spring meet rose from 7.03 in 2016 to 7.18 in 2017.
"This spring we showed that we have turned the corner and are headed in the right direction at Hawthorne," stated president and General Manager Tim Carey. "It's unfortunate that April had so much rain, causing us to lose numerous turf races, but the later post time, improved on-air exposure, and the return of the Illinois Derby all contributed to a positive meet. Being able to stabilize our overnight purse structure while returning some races to the stakes schedule have us well positioned to only improve in meets going forward."
Jockey Victor Santiago took home his first riding title, winning 30 races on the meet. Edgar Perez was second with 20 wins, followed by a three-way tie for third between apprentice Carlos Ulloa, Sebastian Saez, and Chris Emigh with 15 wins apiece.
The formidable duo of owner William Stiritz and trainer Scott Becker were dominant once again, repeating for titles and leading owner and trainer respectively, with 25 wins apiece.
On the track, the return of the Grade 3, $250,000 Illinois Derby boosted a pair of 3-year-olds into the spotlight as Multiplier caught Hedge Fund late for his first graded stakes score in the second fastest running of the race. Recount was impressive in victory in the Robert S. Molaro Handicap while My Mertie got her first stakes score in the Third Chance Handicap.
Founded in 1891, Hawthorne Race Course is the fourth oldest racetrack in the nation and the oldest sporting venue in Illinois. Located in Stickney, Illinois on the edge of Chicago's city limits, the 126-year-old facility hosts thoroughbred racing in March and April and again in October through Dec. Standardbred harness racing is conducted in May through September. The family-owned and operated business has been an innovator in horse racing for more than 100 years and features the nation's most rewarding players program.