Grove City, OH — The Ohio Harness Horsemen’s Association offered $12,500 in scholarships divided among five individuals this year.

Jarrett Bateson of Toledo, Ohio, was a recipient of a $2,500 scholarship. He is the son of Greg Bateson and Robyn Clegg. He is a 2019 graduate of Whitmer High School and enrolled at Owens Community College where he hopes to major in architecture after completing his pre-req classes.

Bateson is a fourth-generation horseman. Bateson’s family has been involved in harness racing since 1973. His father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, as well as his uncle have been in the industry.

His father Greg began his racing career at age 19.

Jarrett’s parents met at Raceway Park in Toledo and Bateson grew up in harness racing. He spent his summers at the farm assisting his father. He helps prepare the horses for jogging and training as well as other grooming tasks. He has jogged before too.

“I hope to be able to be involved in the business in the future. I grew up around it, so it would be nice to be part of it later in my life,” shared Bateson.

What Bateson enjoys best about the industry is the opportunity to be involved and he appreciates his experience.

“I loved being raised around the harness racing industry because I got to experience something so unique, compared to most people I know. The experience alone was a massive benefit.”