by Kimberly Rinker, for Harness Horsemen’s International

Chicago, IL — Harness Horsemen International’s annual meeting wrapped up its final day at the Embassy Suites Resort in Deerfield Beach, Fla. on Dec. 8. The group’s annual awards banquet was held that evening, honoring a trio of harness racing associates.

HHI photo

John Pawlak, Russell Williams and William Oberle, Jr. are congratulated by HHI President Gene Oldford (far right) for their contributions to the sport of harness racing.

Jay Hickey, of the American Horse Council, was the keynote speaker during HHI’s general session. Elections, committee and association reports were also covered.

During HHI’s awards banquet, three men were acknowledged for their contributions to harness racing: William A. Oberle, Jr. (2010 Dominic Frinzi HHI Person of the Year); Russell Williams (2010 HHI Appreciation Award); and John Pawlak (2010 Clyde Hirt Media Award).

Oberle, who retired after 34 years in Delaware’s General Assembly, is credited with being the architect of the “agrarian racino model” that married slots with racing for the benefit of horsemen and agri-business. Williams was honored for his continuing efforts to save retired racehorses, while Pawlak was heralded for his efforts as the USTA’s long-time publicity man.

Harness Horsemen International — headed by President Gene Oldford — is comprised of harness horsemen’s associations from throughout the United States and Canada.