by Darin Gagne, Running Aces Track Announcer

Columbus, MN — Running Aces is counting down to the first day of live racing for the 2016 season which is only five days away on Tuesday (May 17) which just happens to be Dollar Night.

The first qualifying contests were held Wednesday (May 11) over a sloppy track after several rainy days. The highlight of these events was a dominating performance by Linkjack Hanover, who set the track record for 3-year-old pacing colts (1:54) on opening night last year, and later lowered his own standard to 1:53.2. Wednesday he qualified in 2:00, in hand by 7-1/4 lengths over a less than ideal surface. He is owned, trained and was driven by Jeff Ryan of Goodhue, Minn.

The accomplished pacer Cantholdmebackmack (Jenni King) was also sharp in his 2:00.3 winning effort, charging home with a final quarter-mile in :28.4 to hold off a late strong charge by Goody Two Socks (Rick Magee).

Running Aces is hosting another qualifying session, this coming Saturday morning (May 14) at 10 a.m.

This year is shaping up to be an outstanding one for the 9-year-old track due to an earlier start to the season, larger purses, new wagers and more than 60 new export locations. This means larger wagering pools for the players. In addition to the increase in pools, there will be more opportunities for greater jackpot-sized pools to increase, as new rules will allow the 50-cent Pick-3 wagers to be rolled over if not hit.

Also the 50-cent Pick-6 wager will be a jackpot pool with all funds paid to a single winner while multiple winners would share in 25 percent of the cash.

Another exciting bet is the introduction of pentafecta wagering to Minnesota racing fans. Known as the Hi-5, it will be offered on the last two races each evening, with a 50-cent base bet and 100 percent carryover if not hit.

Simulcast agreements are always available, if interested please contact Ben Blum at 651.925.4514 or via e-mail at BBlum@runaces.com.