Columbus, OH – Donald “Skip” Hoovler, a longtime Ohio harness racing owner and former director of the United States Trotting Association, whose decades of leadership and advocacy helped shape the sport in the Buckeye State, died Friday afternoon (March 13) following a brief illness. He was 83.
Hoovler, who became involved in harness racing in 1968, was widely respected as both a horseman and an administrator. In 2025, he was inducted into the Ohio Harness Racing Hall of Fame in recognition of his lasting contributions to the industry.
For several decades, Hoovler served as a director of the United States Trotting Association before retiring from the board last year (2025). He was also a former president and longtime board member of the Ohio Harness Horsemen’s Association and a director of the group’s PACER committee, the Political Action Committee for Equine Racing. In addition, he was a member of the Little Brown Jug Society, the organization that supports and promotes one of harness racing’s most storied events.
As an owner and breeder, Hoovler campaigned a number of successful Standardbreds. Among his top performers were Medoland Sam ($231,120), Medoland Big Sam ($309,423), Medoland Miracle ($289,633), Northmedo Tam ($128,722) and Northmedo Mission ($322,178).
Born and raised in Ohio, Hoovler was also a standout athlete. He graduated from Ohio University in 1965, where he earned honorable mention All-American honors as a linebacker on the football team. He later played professionally in the National Football League with the New York Jets and the Houston Oilers.
After his football career, Hoovler found success in business, founding Hoovler Financial and Insurance Services in his hometown of Pataskala, OH, and building it into a respected local firm. During that time, he was inducted into the halls of fame at both of his alma maters, Ohio University (Athens, OH) and Watkins Memorial High School (Pataskala, OH).
Friends and colleagues will remember Hoovler as much for his character as for his accomplishments.
“Above all, Skip was a man of honor,” said Mike Tanner, executive vice president and chief operating officer of the U.S. Trotting Association. “He was generous and kind, and he will be sorely missed. His impact on the harness racing industry—especially in Ohio—will be felt for many years to come.”
Mr. Hoovler is survived by his wife of 60 years, Tammy, as well as their three children, eight grandchildren, and one great-grandson.
Funeral arrangements are pending and will be announced when they become available.