by Susan Schroeder

Columbus, MN — The first annual “Racing for a Better Community” charity night will be held at Running Aces on Tuesday (Aug. 4). This is a co-sponsored event between Minnesota Harness Racing, Inc. and Running Aces to raise awareness for our local charities.

Six groups will be on hand during the evening and a race will be held in honor of each of them. The charities include Lakes Area Youth Service Bureau, Alexandra House, Northwoods Humane Society, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Greater Twin Cities, Angel Foundation and Western Wishes. Second Harvest Heartland will also be included as Running Aces is giving out a free racing program for a donation of a non-perishable food item.

Along with the live harness racing there will be lots of other activities for a nominal donation to the charities, including jog cart rides behind Tattler’s Jet, starting gate rides, corn hole games and face painting for kids.

Many of the Running Aces drivers have pledged some of their driving commissions for the night to the charities and will be wearing arm bands to signify their favorite charity. Special charity night t-shirts will be available for a donation.

Tuesday nights are the very popular $1 night at Running Aces which includes hot dogs, soda, chips, nachos and bets for just $1. This should leave people with plenty in their pockets to help out these local charities. A competition of sorts will also be taking place between the groups present at the track. The charity whose race has the most on-track money wagered will receive a special backstretch tour and use of the Coors tent at the track for another evening this racing season.