Hawthorne Race Course – Sunday, August 3, 2025: Race Day Preview and Picks
Hawthorne Race Course returns with a competitive 8-race card scheduled for Sunday, August 3, 2025, with a first post of 2:43 PM. The program features a blend of dirt and turf events, with local trainers and jockeys vying for mid-summer purses. This preview delivers news on weather, track notes, key trainer and jockey insights, detailed notes for individual runners, and handicapping picks and predictions for the day’s entries.
Track News and Expected Weather Conditions
Racing action on Sunday will unfold over classic dirt and turf surfaces. Track conditions at time of writing are labeled as “To Be Announced,” though a typical August forecast would suggest fast and firm going with dry, summer weather expected. The card showcases a variety of claiming and allowance races, with connections priming their horses for peak summer form ahead of larger stakes later in August.
Trainer and Jockey Notes
The local training colony is headlined by the prolific Larry Rivelli, frequently leading the standings and represented on today’s card with several live contenders. Jockey Walter Rodriguez, consistently among the top riders at the meet, will guide many favorites and will be closely watched by both handicappers and rival connections. Look for aggressive race-riding tactics from established veterans as well as up-and-coming apprentices eager to make their mark.
Special Notes About Today’s Horses
Several Illinois-bred entries today provide added intrigue, leveraging attractive claiming prices and favorable conditions. Horses dropping in class or returning off fresh layoffs could present value opportunities. It is important to monitor late scratches or surface switches, especially for turf races that may shift to the main track if weather changes.
Additional Race Notes
Monitor final track conditions and scratches before wagering. Trainer intent is often revealed by jockey bookings and class moves. Watch for betting shifts on horses returning from layoffs or with big class drops. Conditions today favor fit horses with proven stamina—handicappers should consider late-run styles given the one-turn mile and turf layouts.
