Over the last couple of years, the horse racing industry in Illinois has faced considerable challenges. There has been a decline in racetracks, as well as a lack of local success in major horse races. However, just recently, the impressive performance of Two Phil’s, a horse based at the Hawthorne Race Course may just have changed the tide.
Two Phil’s performance during this year’s Kentucky Derby has helped to bring newfound hope and excitement to the industry. Despite finishing in second place, Two Phil’s showcased the potential of Illinois-bred horses and attracted attention from both racing enthusiasts and local media.
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The significance of Two Phil’s performance
Larry Rivelli, a native of Chicago and celebrated horse trainer, alongside his horse Two Phil’s made history in the 149th edition of the Kentucky Derby. This victory not only marked a monumental achievement for Rivelli but also brought immense pride to the Illinois horse racing community.
With Two Phil’s being the first Illinois-based horse to compete in the Kentucky Derby in 16 years, the triumph was a significant milestone for the horse racing industry in the state as a whole. Bred by Phil Sagan of Bloomingdale, the 3-year-old chestnut’s ownership is divided between Sagan and Madaket Stables and clients Pat and Vinnie Foglia.
Sagan and Madaket Stables retain a 20% share of the horse while the couple, which is based in Chicago’s northwestern suburbs maintain the majority share of 80%. Jockey Jareth Loveberry, also a Chicag0-based rider was responsible for guiding Two Phil’s during this historic race. This was also Loverberry’s debut during the Kentucky Derby.
Although Two Phil’s ended up losing to the Mage, the Derby unfolded as a momentous occasion for Illinois racing. The last time an Illinois-trained horse won the Derby was 21 years ago when War Emblem succeeded in the 2002 race. Two Phil’s win has no doubt brought remarkable pride to Illinois and has helped to showcase the talent and potential of the state’s horse racing industry.
Two Phil’s presence in the Kentucky Derby helped to inject fresh enthusiasm into the local horse racing sector. The horse’s connections to Hawthorne, as well as the local community, have provided a huge sense of pride for racing enthusiasts in the state. Furthermore, Two Phil’s choice to train at Hawthorne Race Course helped to showcase the track’s facilities and its suitability for top-level Thoroughbred training.
The widespread media attention received by Two Phil’s success could attract even more high-level trainers and owners to Hawthorne. This could further bolster the Illinois horse racing scene. The increased presence of renowned trainers and owners will certainly contribute to the overall growth and development of the industry, bringing additional resources, expertise, and even more competition.
Although Two Phil’s performance at the Kentucky Derby was awe-inspiring, Larry Rivelli opted to sit out participation in the Preakness Stakes, the second leg of the Triple Crown. Even though Rivelli announced that he had not ruled out the possibility of entering Two Phil’s in the Belmont Stakes, the horse ended up bypassing Belmont as well.
Fortunately, though, Two Phil’s primary focus has been the Grade 3 $500,000 Ohio Derby that’s expected to take place at Thistledown on June 24th. Rivelli believes that the Ohio Derby would serve as a better-stepping stone towards Two Phil’s main summer objectives, which are the Travers and Haskell.
As time progresses, Illinois intended to foster the growing synergy between sports betting and horse racing in the state. The legalization of sports betting in the country has had a positive effect on the industry, with mounting interest and participation from sports bettors. The return of horse racing during the pandemic, ahead of some of the biggest sports, helped to attract new bettors who have continued to engage with the sports.
Furthermore, the availability of online platforms, as well as off-track gambling locations has made it convenient for enthusiasts to place bets on horse races, including during major events such as the Dubai World Cup. Existing partnerships between race courses and sports betting operators have also helped to advance the sector.
For instance, the existing relationship between Hawthorne Race Course and PointsBet showcases the successful integration between sports betting and horse racing. PointsBet and Hawthorne Racecourse entered into a 20-year partnership in 2019 that has continued to grow from strength to strength.
This collaboration between Hawthorne and PointsBet has facilitated the debut of a premium retail sportsbook operation in the Chicago area, which is the 3rd biggest metropolitan area in the country. This development has helped to expand the offerings available to racing enthusiasts and sports bettors, supplying them with new and exciting ways to enjoy their favorite sport.
What’s the future of horse racing in Illinois?
The future of horse racing in Illinois has never looked brighter. However, there are still lots of challenges that must be fixed to guarantee this future. For instance, continuous evaluation and enhancement of welfare practices, adherence to strict regulations, as well as the commitment to ensuring the well-being of racehorses are critical for promoting a sustainable and ethical industry not just in Illinois, but the rest of the country.
Horse welfare and care have especially taken center stage in light of the events at the Kentucky Derby this year. Churchill Downs, the celebrated venue for the Kentucky Derby, was forced to temporarily shut down racing operations starting from June 7th. This decision came after 12 horses died and several more were injured at the Louisville track over the last few weeks.
If the industry is to advance, safety and surface protocols must be adhered to. By taking proactive steps to ensure the welfare of horses, the Illinois horse racing industry can build a strong foundation for its future. By making these efforts, the state can then position itself as a leader in promoting ethical and sustainable racing practices.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the recent success of Two Phil’s during the Kentucky Derby helped to bring a renewed sense of excitement to the horse racing industry in the state. Two Phil’s impressive performance has not only showcased the talent and potential of state-bred horses but has also attracted widespread media attention and pride within the racing community in Illinois.
