Purses will be on the rise for the final month of the 2015 season at Running Aces.
Due primarily to improved business levels in the 80-table cardroom casino in 2015, purses in several key overnight classes were increased earlier in the summer and many classes are expected to see another boost in the very near future.
The most noticeable increases, which will be effective from August 8 through September 6, will be seen in Minnesota-sired races for two and three-year-olds. Base purses for the final 14 scheduled preliminary legs for state-bred juvenile pacers and trotters will jump to $16,000 from the current $11,000 level.
Closing day on September 12 will feature eight $20,000 State Championship races for two and three-year-olds, divided by sex and gait, in addition to three $10,000 championships for older Minnisota-breds. Rules require two-year-olds to make a minimum of three starts or at least 50 percent of their money starts at Running Aces; while three-year-olds must have made six starts or at least 50 percent of their money starts at Running Aces in order to qualify for the championship events.
“Our members are excited by the progress that Running Aces has made in 2015. The casino and simulcasting improvements implemented by new Running Aces CEO Taro Ito have increased the legislated purse contributions. Our handle and attendance numbers are up and the relationship between management and our horsemen has never been better," said Mark Corless, President of Minnesota Harness Racing Inc., the local horsemen’s association. “Harness racing has a great future in Minnesota. Our annual Standardbred sale will take place at noon on Thursday, September 10 at Simon Arena in Cannon Falls, where I expect yearling prices will positively reflect our improved situation.”
As soon as concrete July cardroom revenues are available, track officials and the local horsemen’s track committee will meet to determine where additional overnight purse increases are warranted.
Limited stall space is available on the grounds for the remainder of the Running Aces meet. Interested trainers can contact Director of Racing Gregg Keidel at: [email protected] or by calling 651-925-4532.
(Running Aces)