by Ellen Harvey, Harness Racing Communications

Freehold, NJ — Early on the morning of May 16, the number of horses entered to race across the United States by way of the United States Trotting Association’s online entry system hit 10,000.

The system, which has been in place since April 7, allows an owner or trainer to enter a horse from their internet-connected phone or computer 24 hours a day, from any location. There are now nearly 500 trainers using the option, which allows a user to check condition sheets, check eligibility, name a driver, everything that was once possible only by phone.

The track with most prolific use of the system is Northfield Park, with 64 percent of their entries coming via the internet. The option is also available to fair race offices and 100 percent of Pennsylvania fairs will offer online entry to horsemen racing at those venues.

Those using the online entry option must have a USTA online account, which is provided at no charge. For more information on how to use the system, click here.