Grove City, OH – Tessa Koran of Stow, OH has been named the 2020 Ohio Harness Horsemen’s Association Outstanding Groom for 2020.

Tessa Koran of Stow, OH has been named the 2020 Ohio Harness Horsemen’s Association Outstanding Groom for 2020. OHHA Photo.

Koran works for trainer Kent Sherman and was nominated by Matt Watson, the owner of Sherman trainee Lucky King.

Watson said Koran brings a positive energy to the track every day.  “It doesn’t matter if your horse is a $5,000 claimer or an Open horse, you can rest assured that when Tessa is taking care of it, it is in great hands and is being taken care of as if it was her own child.”

Koran’s interest in horses began at an early age.  Her grandfather owned horses with Sherman.  “It’s been a never-ending love affair with the horses.  I started helping and learning everything about the horses when I was seven years old,” Koran said.

Koran also said she has had other career opportunities but loves working with the horses.  “I left the business, but never totally left.  I never dread going to work.”  She said the best part of her job is the one-on-one time with the horses.

Due to COVID-19, the Ohio Harness Horsemen’s Association will not host an annual banquet but instead will feature all award winners during a virtual awards show on Saturday, Jan. 16, 2021.  The virtual awards show will air on the Ohio Harness Horsemen’s Association’s YouTube channel at 7 p.m.

For more information:  Frank Fraas, ffraas@ohha.com or 614.221.3650.

The Ohio Harness Horsemen’s Association is a non-profit organization serving Standardbred horse owners, breeders, trainers, drivers, and fans who participate in the sport of harness racing in the Buckeye State.

OHHA was founded in 1953. The mission of the Ohio Harness Horsemen’s Association is to preserve, protect, promote, and serve the entire Standardbred industry in Ohio and beyond.