by T.C. Lane, USTA Director of Officials

Columbus, OH — The United States Trotting Association will host a 16-hour continuing education program for any interested ROAP accredited racing official at The Meadows, Meadow Lands, Pa., on Saturday (Nov. 9), beginning at 9:30 a.m. and concluding on Sunday afternoon (Nov. 10).

There is no charge to current ROAP accredited harness officials who are current USTA members/licensees. For all others, the cost is $100 payable at time of registration. The meeting room is “Delvin’s Banquet Room” located inside The Meadows Racetrack.

Attendees are responsible for their own lodging and meals. For information on available lodging in the area, visit the Meadows website: www.meadowsgaming.com.

Reservations are required; contact Cathy O’Meara at ROAP at 859.224.2702, contactus@horseracingofficials.com.

Attendees are asked to prepare in advance to discuss a variety of issues including the following topics:

Administrative Law

• Conducting A Proper Hearing
• Summary Suspensions
• Temporary Restraining Orders/Injunctions
• Appeal Process/Procedures

Regulatory Issues

• Whipping, Kicking, Posture of Drivers
• Reciprocity of Rulings (Full Faith and Credit of Rulings)
• Dealing with “Contact” Interference
• Protocols for Handling “No Contest” Races
• Penalties for Positive Tests – “Dollars vs. Days”
• Rules vs. Policy vs. Written Conditions vs. Judges Orders
• USTA Authority vs. Racing Commissions Authority
• Dissemination of Ruling Information (USTA/RCI)

Administrative Duties

• Preparedness for Racing Meeting Opening
• Communications – Working with Other Officials/Departments