Columbus, OH – The deadline for United States Trotting Association (USTA) members to file petitions seeking election to the Board of Directors has passed (Oct. 1), with contested membership director elections in Districts 1, 6 and 7 and an unopposed candidate in District 5.
In District 1 (Ohio), four candidates are competing for three membership director seats. Incumbents Roy Burns, Steve McCoy and Dr. John Mossbarger are seeking re-election, with challenger Kris Brechler also on the ballot. District 1 members will vote for three candidates, with the three receiving the most votes elected.
In District 6, incumbent Dein Spriggs and challenger Sam Herrington are running for the at-large seat, which encompasses Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and West Virginia. District 6 members will vote for one candidate.
In District 7, incumbent and USTA President Russell Williams is seeking re-election against challenger Ron Burke for one membership director seat. District 7 members will vote for one candidate.
In District 5, Lane Avenatti is running unopposed for the seat currently held by Casey Leonard, who is not seeking re-election.
Additional information about the candidates will be provided to USTA members as the election approaches. Ballots will be mailed by the end of October, with completed ballots required to be postmarked no later than Dec. 9, 2026. Election results are expected to be announced in early January 2027.