The new Maryland Jockey Club (TMJC) has hired veteran John Banno as Director of Racing Surfaces, the organization said in a press release on Friday morning.
Previously the superintendent at Thistledown, Banno brings over 30 years of industry experience to the role. He will oversee the TMJC track team as they maintain the dirt surfaces at Laurel Park, Pimlico Race Course, and the brand-new training center at Shamrock Farm.
“John is the perfect fit for the Maryland Jockey Club,” said President and General Manager Bill Knauf. “He has a proven track record and great experience. We look forward to his work on the new Pimlico Race Course and new training center.”
Banno started working at Thistledown as a truck driver and heavy equipment operator before assuming the role of superintendent in 2003. In addition to managing the racing surface at Thistledown, Banno was also responsible for maintaining compliance and contractor relations with the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Agriculture.
Laurel Park also named Danny Finke as Track Superintendent. Finke served as Interim Track Superintendent before the promotion.
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