SHAKOPEE, MN –The Minnesota Racing Commission is pleased to announce the hiring of Bob Schiewe as Deputy Director. Beginning June 5, Schiewe will succeed Joe Scurto in this role.

“I am excited to welcome Bob Schiewe to the commission,” said Tom DiPasquale, Minnesota Racing Commission Executive Director. “Bob’s knowledge of and passion for horse racing make him uniquely qualified to manage the commission’s day-to-day operations, promote industry growth, and help bring about needed changes in the sport that are responsive to calls for increased safety and welfare measures.”

Since April, 2018, Schiewe has held the role of Executive Secretary with Minnesota Harness Racing Inc. (MHRI). Prior to that, Schiewe served as a commissioner of the Illinois Racing Board for six years. It was there that he worked to improve conditions on the backstretches of Illinois tracks. Schiewe also led efforts in Illinois to adopt national uniform medication rules and was actively involved in public policy, media relations and field operations.

After growing up in Chicago, near Maywood Park, Schiewe became and has remained a fan and supporter of horse racing. He has owned horses and was for many years a member of the Illinois Harness Horsemen’s Association. Schiewe earned an undergraduate degree in economics and business administration from the University of Notre Dame and an MBA from Loyola University, Chicago.

“I am grateful to Chairman Jim Lane, Vice-Chair Barb Colombo, and Director DiPasquale for their confidence in me, and I am excited by this opportunity to work with and for all who care about the welfare of horses and horse racing in the State of Minnesota,” stated Schiewe.