COLUMBUS, MN (1/4/17) – Running Aces announces the 2017 live racing schedule with the Minnesota Racing Commissions approval. The upcoming meet will feature a few key changes to the growing racing product by extending the calendar length of the meet by racing three days a week instead of four.

"In 2017, we look to build upon the foundation our successes in previous seasons," stated Ben Blum – Running Aces Director of Mutuels/Simulcasting. "These efforts focus mainly on the safety of our horsemen while offering additional racing opportunities and competitive fields to our local fans and throughout the simulcast market" continues Blum.

The 2017 Running Aces race season will run 52 days. The season will be extended three weeks into September to better accommodate those traveling from other states and extend the season for local horsemen and race fans.

Live racing will open on Saturday, May 20, 2017 and will race through September 16, 2017. Races will run Tuesdays at 7 pm with 6 pm races on Saturdays and Sundays. This years' race season will be enhanced with added family entertainment, more food options and of course the Trout Air Fishing Experience.

The only change from the weekly format will be in July as there will be a shift from races on Tuesday, July 4th to a special race day on Monday, July 3rd with a 5 pm post time.

Running Aces is known as a state-of-the-art facility, including 252 stalls in their on-site barns and excellent track composition. The track conditions continue to be top notch thanks to industry-renowned Director of Facilities / Track Superintendent, John Betts. "We are lucky to have a crew with deep skills and abilities" said, Taro Ito, President/CEO of Running Aces. "Running Aces has maintained a first-class look, allure and safety due to the leadership of Betts and his talented team."

With barn space in high demand, stall applications and initial condition sheets will be posted in early February 2017 as well as Race Office positions including Paddock Judge, Identifier, and other various seasonal positions. A job fair will be set for early spring. Running Aces employs 650+ staff during the summer months.

by Nina Sveinson, for Running Aces