Columbus, OH – On Wednesday (April 29), U.S. Trotting Association President Russell Williams announced the members of the organization’s expanded Executive Committee. The committee, which previously consisted of 16 members, added five in accordance with an amendment passed during the Annual Meeting in March.
The Executive Committee is a select group of USTA directors entrusted with making timely decisions between full Board meetings and addressing issues that may arise within the sport. The Committee typically convenes several times throughout the year to ensure continuity in governance and the efficient management of Association affairs.
The five additions were for three new membership directors and two track directors.
The new members are: Kim Crawford (District 8), Don Marean (District 9), Dan Bittle (District 11), and track directors Chris Antonacci (District 6) and Joe Morris (District 2).
In addition, Dr. Andy Roberts has replaced Jim Miller, who stepped down as Treasurer.
“Each district now has a membership representative on the Executive Committee,” said USTA President Russell Williams. “The increase from four to six track directors ensures equitable representation for the tracks on the committee as well.”
In March, the USTA Board of Directors approved an amendment to Article 9.01(a)(5) regarding the composition of the Executive Committee. The updated bylaw language is as follows:
“One membership director from each of Districts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, and 12; six pari-mutuel directors selected at large; and such other directors as the President may appoint. All members of the Executive Committee shall be appointed by the President at each annual meeting of the full Board of Directors.”
(Effective March 8, 2026)
Following are the members of the USTA’s Executive Committee:
Officers
President – Russell Williams
Chairman – Joe Faraldo
Vice-Chair – Mark Loewe
Treasurer – Dr. Andy Roberts
Membership Directors
District 1: Steve McCoy
District 2: Marilyn Breuer-Bertera
District 3: Ivan Axelrod
District 4: Gabe Wand
District 5: Sam Lilly
District 6: Joe Pennacchio
District 7: Sam Beegle
District 8: Kim Crawford
District 9: Don Marean
District 11: Dan Bittle
District 12: Jeff Gregory
Track Directors
Chris Antonacci
Joe Frasure
John Matarazzo
Chris McErlean
Joe Morris
Matt Sparacino