by Jerry Connors, for the Pennsylvania Harness Racing Commission

Harrisburg, PA — Richard D. Sharbaugh, 54, an announcer, horseman, and member of a leading Pennsylvania harness racing family, died Feb. 10, 2011, at Harrisburg (PA) Hospital.

Mr. Sharbaugh was the son of Richard E. Sharbaugh, former executive secretary of the Pennsylvania Harness Racing Commission, and the brother of Eric Sharbaugh, former executive vice president of the U.S. Trotting Association. Both preceded him in death.

In more recent years, Mr. Sharbaugh served as the announcer at Pocono Downs, and also called races along the Pennsylvania county fair circuit (as did his brother, even when chief of the USTA). Mr. Sharbaugh posted 40 wins as a driver, and 79 wins with a fine career UTR of .329 as a conditioner. He also worked as a caretaker for several racing outfits.

Mr. Sharbaugh is survived by his mother, Patricia Prendergast; daughters, Kristi (Dextral) Woods, Patricia and Erika Thomas; son, John; grandsons, Gavin Berkey and Christian Woods; and sisters, Nancie Richards and Susan.

Services and interment were private.

Memorial contributions can be sent to Bethesda Mission, P.O. Box 3041, Harrisburg, PA 17105.