by Kimberly Rinker, for Harness Horsemen International

Deerfield Beach, FL — Harness Horsemen International began their annual meetings Monday (March 3) at the Embassy Suites Deerfield Beach Resort & Spa.

HHI President Tom Luchento welcomed the group, which consists of horsemen’s representatives from ten associations including Cloverleaf SOA, Delaware SOA, Illinois HHA, Ohio HHA, Maine HHA, Meadows HHA, Western New England HHA, Pennsylvania HHA, SBOA of New Jersey and Kentucky HHA.

USTA President Phil Langley expounded on the issue of medication testing and procedures, followed by Jay Hickey, President of the American Horse Council, who addressed the group on the national topics of tax benefits and issues, horse welfare and gaming platforms.

Association representatives gave their individual “state of the industry” reports, commenting on concerns facing horsemen in their regions.

Tuesday (March 4) begins with a general session and further association reports, with HHI committees meeting to discuss pertinent industry issues and concerns later that day.

Wednesday (March 5) will begin with a general session, followed by the HHI awards luncheon.

The HHI annual meetings will conclude with a farewell breakfast on Thursday (March 6).

HHI is comprised of horsemen’s associations from the United States and Canada who collectively represent the agriculture based industry of harness racing in North America. HHI’s governing body consists of representatives from its member associations.