Illinois Harness Racing Thrives at State Fairs

The Illinois Department of Agriculture provided a much-needed financial boost to the state's harness racing community by hosting a series of races at the Springfield and DuQuoin State Fairs. Despite a few weather-related postponements, the events were a resounding success, showcasing the talent and determination of Illinois-bred horses and their trainers.

Powering the Prairie State's Passion for Harness Racing

Seventeen Championship Races at DuQuoin

The DuQuoin State Fair hosted seventeen championship races on August 27, offering a total of $447,164 in purses. The richest race was the $50,250 Pronto Don for 3-year-old Illinois-bred colts and geldings. Trainer Erv Miller and his driver/son, Marcus, captured three of the Springfield championships, including victories with Gorgeous Big Guy, Tru Cash, and Louise's Legacy.

Eight Championships and Seven Consolations at Springfield

On September 11, the Springfield State Fair held eight championship races and seven consolation races, with a total purse of $545,000. All of the championship races had purses of $55,000, while the consolations each had $15,000 pots. Trainer Erv Miller and driver Marcus Miller continued their dominance, winning three more championships at this event.

Trainer-Driver Duos Shine at the State Fairs

The Husted family, Amy and Kyle, also enjoyed success at the state fairs, capturing two championship races at Springfield with Thebeautifulthings and Fox Valley Sadie. Other notable winners included Cash Money Twenty, Kays In Charge, and Calypso Moon.

Lous Private Eye Triumphs at DuQuoin

At the DuQuoin Champions Day races, Lous Private Eye, driven by Casey Leonard for trainer Steve Searle, defeated Tru Cash in a thrilling $50,250 Pronto Don race, clocking a lifetime best of 1:54.4. Searle's other winner, Lou's My Number, also found success on the DuQuoin card.

Seekman Shines with Five Wins at DuQuoin

Jockey Travis Seekman was the star of the DuQuoin extravaganza, winning five races, including victories with Adalecia, Hypeyourbestieup, Kays In Charge, Battlin Bob, and Guitar Man. The Husted duo also collaborated to win two races at DuQuoin.

A Sneak Peek at the Night of Champions

The races at Springfield and DuQuoin serve as a preview for the upcoming Night of Champions for state-breds, scheduled for November 9 at Hawthorne. As the only remaining pari-mutuel harness track in Illinois, Hawthorne plays a crucial role in the state's racing landscape, alongside the lone thoroughbred track, Fairmount Park.