by Mary Manney, for Running Aces

Columbus, MN — Running Aces Harness Park reaffirmed its commitment to the future with the hiring of Taro Ito as President and Chief Executive Officer.

Ito has more than 25 years of direct experience in card room operations. His previous position was Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Hollywood Park Casino located on the world famous Hollywood Park Race Track, located in Los Angeles, Calif.

Prior to Hollywood Park Casino, Ito held the Vice President position with The Bicycle Club Casino and Bay 101 Casino. At the time, The Bicycle Club was recognized as the largest table games casino in the world.

Ito said, “I am extremely excited and confident regarding the long-term future of Running Aces Harness Park. I feel that my past experience in card room development and operations, coupled with my long history of partnership with the horse racing industry is ideally suited to this new position.

“I can honestly say that the Running Aces facility is one of the nicest card rooms in the country.”

“Taro is a great addition to the Running Aces team and further reinforces our commitment to the property and the long-term success for the property, 600 employees, horsemen, Columbus our host city and the state of Minnesota,” Running Aces Chairman Peter Frank said. “We are very excited about the future.”

Running Aces offers a variety of entertainment options for the North Metro/St. Paul market such as gaming, simulcast racing, bingo, live entertainment and excellent food and beverage options. In addition, Running Aces plans 53 days of racing beginning June 6 and ending Sept. 12, 2015.