from the USTA Communications Department

Columbus, OH — Charles E. Bowen, 84, died July 12, 2011, in Indianapolis, Ind., after a prolonged illness.

A long time Columbus, Ohio, resident, Mr. Bowen will be long remembered for his many contributions to the harness racing industry. As a third generation Standardbred devotee, he began his activities in earnest with the Little Brown Jug in 1947 as the overseer of the winner’s circle ceremonies and trophy presentation. He later went on to become Director of Special Events and Horsemen Relations and was designated the 1997 Little Brown Jug Wall of Fame honoree.

Of great pride to him was his 1983 appointment by then Governor Richard Celeste to serve on the Ohio Standardbred Development Fund Board, followed by five additional four-year terms, serving as Secretary in 1999.

Mr. Bowen’s involvement in the harness industry translated into raising significant funds to promote and develop Grand Circuit harness racing and continued through 2010 when he retired from serving The Red Mile as Director of Sponsorships.

He is survived by his children, Patricia Prosser, Jeffrey, Charles and Gail Ward. He was preceded in death in 2010 by his wife of 61 years, Lenore.

Internment ceremonies will take place at a future date at Union Cemetery in Columbus, Ohio.