Banker Volo and Burning Blaze series return for 2026

A total of 30 horses have been nominated to the early season series harness racing events at Running Aces, including thirteen for the 2026 edition of the Banker Volo for trotters, and seventeen for the Burning Blaze series for pacers. Both events are for Non-winners of 1 Pari-Mutuel race or $15,000 lifetime as of 4/15/26 (with certain allowances).

Banker Volo (Yankee Glide) was a highly successful trotter who dominated the Open competition at Running Aces from 2016 through 2019, and was still highly competitive up until his untimely passing in 2020 at the age of eleven.  In addition to his accomplishments on the track, where he earned $489,752 for owner Jeralene Roland and trainer Dan Roland,  he also served in the stud barn during that same time period and sired a total of 40 foals who have collectively earned over $1.9 million and are led by Minnesota Horse of The Year award winners Rush To The Bank and Iron Sharpens Iron, each of whom continue to race competitively today, continuing his lasting legacy in Minnesota harness racing.

The Banker Volo series covers three consecutive Sunday nights, starting on May 24 and concluding with the $12,500 final on June 7.

Below is the full list of nominees for this year’s Banker Volo series: 

1. Altar Boy Andy
2. Bang Bang Boogie
3. Call Her Daddy
4. Chicora
5. Fun Pack
6. Harper Hanover
7. Isthatevnaquestion
8. Kick Em Jenny
9. Luna Landing
10. Mio El Valentine
11. Model Good Looks
12. Swan Jefe
13. Wilmar Bucky

Burning Blaze (Wind Me Up) was the Minnesota harness Horse of The Year in 2019 and was a fan favorite at Running Aces for his speed and grit as well as his distinctive markings, including a big white blaze on his face. Burning Blaze was bred by Alan and Cheryl Sandbulte who owned him in partnership with Edward Gutin.  The talented gelding had a sensational sophomore campaign in 2019, earning $65,720 and taking a mark of 1:53.2. Burning Blaze passed away suddenly in 2022 at the age of six. He had earned a total of $139,703 from just 60 career starts.

The Burning Blaze series covers three consecutive Thursday night cards starting on May 28 and concluding with the $12,500 final on June 11.

Below is the full list of nominees for this year’s Burning Blaze series: 

1. Alwaysinafrenzy G
2. Best In Shadow
3. Bestseatindahouse
4. Fox Valley Groupie
5. Go Till Midnight
6. Larry Freight
7. Lemmi Winks
8. Luke Skyrocker
9. Lyons Delightful
10. Mamas Sunshine
11. Midnight Prowler
12. Sassy Tea
13. SB Kara Mia
14. Ten K Obo
15. The Golden Ghost
16. Ulla Law
17. Whatuwontdoforlove

 

The Running Aces 2026 season is now underway and offers action every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday night through late September.

For the racing calendar, events schedule, track information, handicapping information and much more, please visit the Running Aces website (www.RunAces.com).

by Darin Gagne, for Running Aces