Illinois Racing Board Suspends Suburban Downs Organization Licenses

[Wandering Eyes]

The Illinois Racing Board suspended on Monday the license of Suburban Downs, Inc, which manages Hawthorne Race Course's Harness meet, for “failure to provide documentation demonstrating its financial integrity, and proof that they can meet the minimum standards” as outlined in certain state laws, according to a press release by the board.

Monday's action to suspend Suburban Downs's authorization to operate in Illinois follows Board action to cancel January 3-4 races for failure to submit required surety bonds, the press release states. Suburban Downs had been awarded 34 Harness race dates in 2026.

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,” wrote IRB executive director Domenic DiCera in the press release. “On Jan. 15th, 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.”

According to the press release, the racing board sent on Jan. 26 a letter to Tim Carey, Owner/CEO of Suburban Downs, outlining the sorts of financial records it's privy to under state law.

“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. Admin Code 1314.120 which states “If track pays any purse by check, which upon presentation is dishonored, 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, according to the press release.

The next Illinois Racing Board meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 28.

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