by T.C. Lane, director of officials, U.S. Trotting Association

Columbus, OH — The “Best Practices of County Fair Harness Racing: Ohio” is now available by a simple click.

The Ohio contingency that was formed last fall has rigorously prepared a one stop shop for all of your county fair racing needs. Every aspect of county fair harness racing is outlined in an attempt to provide a tool to make the process smoother.

Not every point is applicable in every case. The recommendations were based on views from a selected group from all aspects of the industry with the intention to improve the overall program and provide a valuable resource that can be used in all areas.

The purpose is not only to provide a document that is beneficial for the first time fair board member and racing officials, but for all of us as horsemen on the backside of the racetrack as well.

I encourage all of you to read it.

Fair racing as we know it will experience change. We are seeing it now. Do you like what you see? If not, how can we change and move forward?

There are almost 300 county fairs around the country that offer harness racing. All fairs in general make annual adjustments to the way they do business at their fair. The results of this year play a large part in their plan for next season.

My question to you is, “Are we doing the best job that we can?”

My answer will be clear. If we have to ask the question, we already know the answer.

I encourage everyone to take a look and make a copy. This edition was formatted for Ohio and shall serve as a template for other states.

As on ongoing commitment, the USTA will work diligently to provide the same resource for your state as well. I encourage communication, so please feel free to contact me at any time. I can be reached at (877) 800-8782, extension 3203, or by e-mail at tclane@ustrotting.com. Best of luck!