Arlington Racetrack Signs Off On Racing Without Fans

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL — There's a chance local horse racing fans might be able to enjoy the Sport of Kings this summer after all, just not in person. Tony Petrillo, president of Arlington International Racecourse, has changed his mind about racing without spectators, according to Bloodhorse.com. He told attendees at a special meeting of the Illinois Racing Board Friday that a lessening of COVID-19 restrictions in the state, along with acknowledging the financial strain no racing will have on his company, has made him reverse course.

At issue remains a dispute with the Illinois Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association over a contract. Purse levels and Arlington's insistence on a two-year contract are the main stumbling blocks, reports Bloodhorse.com.

Last week, Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed off on racing in the state and said the Illinois Department of Agriculture is working with the Illinois Department of Public Health and the Illinois Racing Board to develop guidelines for opening racetracks. During Friday's meeting a proposal to start harness racing at Hawthorne Race Course in Stickney was approved. Racing without spectators at Hawthorne begins Saturday.

The Illinois Racing Board will meet with representatives again Monday. If an agreement can be reached between Arlington and the ITHA, the board is expected to sign off on a 30-day meeting in August and early September.

• Pritzker: Horse Racing Can Return To Illinois

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