Hawthorne Race Course

Hey everybody , my name is Alma Escamilla and I'm here to tell you all about my latest visit to Hawthorne Race Course in Cicero, Illinois. I wasn't sure what to expect when I arrived but I was quickly and warmly greeted by the staff and manager of the track. I found out that the industry is no longer hustling and bustling like it once did in the 70's. It' s unfortunate that it's dwindling down to nothing.

Its downturn has to do in part to large casinos syphoning away bettors. The larger problem though is a legislative bill that wont allow race tracks to have slot machines nor will it give them money for renovations. Without the attractive slot machines many are going straight to Off Track Betting facilities , otherwise known as OTB. Many of the visitors that Hawthorne still has are over 65. I think that the younger bettors are doing it online or at OTBs.

I am not big into sports but I had a great time covering this story. I am not sure of the future of the horse racing industry but hopefully the bill will pass this April and these places will get a break. It's not just a place to go and gamble but it's also a nice place for families to gather and enjoy a nostalgic sport that was once enjoyed by our very own Abraham Lincoln.