Illinois Derby

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The Illinois Derby is held annually in the first part of April. This stakes race was originally held over 80 years ago in 1923. Since then, it's featured some prestigious winnings that have gone on to compete in Triple Crown races.

The home of the Illinois Derby is the Hawthorne Race Track, which is located just west of Chicago. The race is open to all 3-year-olds and it 1 1/8th miles in length, which is 9 furlongs. Remember, one furlong equals 1/8th of a mile.

This race is a Grade II event, which is a big step down from the Grade I races like the Kentucky Derby. But, don't be followed. The Illinois Derby produces winners that eventually run in Triple Crown races. Perhaps you've heard of War Emblem and Sweetnorthernsaint?

War Emblem won the Illinois Derby in 2002 and Sweetnorthernsaint won the Illinois Derby in 2006. Both went on to race in Triple Crown races. One of the more famous horses in racing history, Seabiscuit, has made an appearance - of sorts- at the Illinois Derby.

In 2004, a horse by the name of Pollard's Vision was entered into the Illinois Derby. It was named after famed jockey Red Pollard. He was Seabiscuit's Jockey and he had poor vision. Pollard's Vision saw nothing but the finish line as he galloped to victory.

In 2007, Cowtown Cat won the Illinois Derby. Jockey Fernando Jara rode him. Cowtown Cat went on to run in the 2007 Kentucky Derby. He was moderately priced at about 20-1. However, he failed to make a showing. Cowtown Cat started off well - as high as 2nd - but he faded heavily and was in next to last place down the straight. He eventually finished 20th.

The Illinois Derby is a prep race for the Kentucky Derby each year.