by T.C. Lane, Director of Registry, United States Trotting Association

Washington, PA — The United States Trotting Association is currently holding its Judges Accreditation Program at The Meadows Racetrack and Casino. The 60-hour educational seminar, which is a nine-day program, began on Tuesday (Nov. 7) and is conducted under the auspices of the Racing Officials Accreditation Program (ROAP).

Photo courtesy of T.C. Lane

Nearly 30 students are participating in the 2017USTA/Racing Officials Accreditation Program at The Meadows. The nine-day programbegan on Nov. 7.

The school provides a formal way to cover both basic, day-to-day responsibilities and technical subjects including medication/drug testing and administrative law/hearings. Using nationally and high profiled judges, veterinarians, attorneys and others to perform instruction, the students are finding the classes not only challenging, but informative. The curriculum covers the responsibilities and interaction that make up any licensed judge’s activities.

The program creates an atmosphere for discussion and demonstration of a wide range of subjects. Much of the education, however, is derived from the exchange of ideas from the officials in attendance. Coming from a variety of jurisdictions, the participants bring a wide range of experience to the sessions.

Upon completion of the school, applicants may become an Accredited Harness Racing Judge based upon the student’s ability to satisfactorily complete a total of five examination sections consisting of: an oral examination; a racing video analysis examination; written examination on medication and drug testing; a written examination on legal and regulatory issues; and a written examination on general rules and regulations.

To find out more about how to become a racing official, visit the direct link from the USTA website by clicking here.