Laino Retiring From Illinois Racing Board

Marc Laino announced Nov. 14 he is retiring as executive director of the Illinois Racing Board, effective at the end of the year. He has worked at the IRB for 28 years and served in his current post for 12 years.

 

Laino's job effectively put him in charge of day-to-day administration of racing in Illinois. He said he plans to pursue other interests and spend more time with family and friends.

 

"It has been an honor and privilege to work for the Illinois Racing Board, representing the citizens of Illinois and serving the interests of the Illinois racing industry," Laino said. "I have been fortunate to have worked alongside amazingly talented people on the board, on staff, and throughout the racing industry."

 

Board chairman William Berry lauded Laino's "professionalism and leadership" and said his reputation extends beyond the state border.

 

"During my tenure as chairman, not only has my appreciation for those qualities expanded, but I have become aware of the high esteem with which Marc Laino was held not only by those participating in Illinois horse racing, but those participating in horse racing throughout the country," Berry said.

 

Also on Nov. 14, former Chicago Mayor Jayne Byrne passed away after a long illness at the age of 81. Byrne, the first and so far only female mayor of Chicago, was the mother of IRB member Kathy Byrne. She was elected in 1979 after defeating incumbent mayor Michael Bilandic in the Democratic Party primary. She served one term.