by T.C. Lane, director of officials, the U.S. Trotting Association

Columbus, OH — On October 18 and 19, the United States Trotting Association, in connection with the Racing Officials Accreditation Program, will conduct a 16-hour continuing education course for all harness racing officials in the U.S. and Canada.

Only racing officials that have successfully completed the full 60 hour ROAP course are eligible to attend. All racing officials that wish to maintain their accredited status must attend and complete 16 hours of CE every two years. The fee for registration will be $75 for USTA Licensed Officials and $175 for non-USTA Licensed.

The program will be held at the USTA office in Columbus, Ohio. Topics to be discussed shall include but not limited to:

• Reviewing procedures with all officials at the start of each race meet
• Stressing routine procedures and mechanics with officials
• Promoting consistency through weekly review by racing officials
• Stressing proper use of the whip and enforcement
• Supervising the enforcement of rules
• Honoring and reciprocating on all lists, including stewards and vets lists
• Race Video Analysis
• Administrative Law Review

Reservations are required and must be made by October 1. To register, please submit an application (available by clicking here) by fax to 614.224.4575 or mail to 750 Michigan Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215.

For further questions, please contact T.C. Lane at tc.lane@ustrotting.com or call 877.800.8782, ext. 3203.

For more information regarding the accreditation process, go to the Racing Officials Accreditation Program website at www.horseracingofficials.com.