Christchurch, New Zealand – International collaboration, industry leadership and the exchange of practical ideas highlighted the recently concluded 2026 World Trotting Conference in Christchurch, New Zealand, where the United States Trotting Association (USTA) was actively represented by TC Lane, Chief Operating Officer and Director of Registry.
Lane was once again nominated to serve as Chairperson of Breeding. North American representation was also reflected in the nominations of Standardbred Canada’s Darryl Kaplan as Chairperson of Marketing and Development for Racing and Linda Bedard as Chairperson of Safety and Equine Health.
Throughout the conference, Lane actively contributed to discussions involving breeding, genomic technology, registration standards and horse welfare. He also shared the USTA’s experience in developing racing officials and its education and examination programs for drivers and trainers, areas that generated interest among international delegates.
Beyond the formal sessions, Lane spent considerable time meeting with active racing officials and visiting paddock operations, gaining firsthand insight into how other jurisdictions approach race-day administration, officiating and industry development.
“One of the greatest benefits of attending these conferences is the opportunity to spend time with people who are actively involved in the sport in their respective countries. Whether it’s sitting down with racing officials, visiting paddocks or exchanging ideas during the formal sessions, you gain a much better understanding of how other jurisdictions operate and where there may be opportunities to improve what we’re doing at home.”
Lane emphasized the importance of looking at the sport from a broader perspective, recognizing that the future of harness racing cannot be considered solely within individual national boundaries.
“Racing is bigger than any one country. We need to think more globally, understand what is happening in other parts of the world and recognize that we can learn from one another. The challenges may not always be identical, but many of the opportunities are shared. Staying connected internationally is important if we want to continue developing and strengthening the sport.”
He also noted that innovation, particularly in breeding and technology, must be considered alongside responsible implementation, education and consistent standards.
“We have to be willing to embrace innovation, but we also have to understand its limitations and use it responsibly. The same applies to education and the development of our racing officials. There is always room to learn, improve and find better ways to serve our industry.”
The next World Trotting Conference is scheduled for Italy in 2029. The conference will return to the United States in 2031, with the USTA serving as host. That gathering will also include the World Driving Championship, bringing an added international spotlight to American harness racing. Additional details regarding the location and schedule will be announced at a later date.
The conference provided another opportunity for the USTA to contribute to international discussions, strengthen relationships with its counterparts around the world and bring valuable perspectives and ideas back to the United States.