Lansing, MI – Ron Merritt from Michigan was named the Dan Rathka Memorial Award as the Michigan Horseman of the Year for 2022.  Presentation of the award was made by past Hall of Fame and Rathka Award winners Saturday night (Jan. 21) at the MHHA annual banquet.

Ron Merritt personifies loyalty, dedication, and kindness. He is the first person to offer a helping hand to others. Whether he knows an answer or not, he will usually figure it out to help those in need. From race bike wheels for the drivers to horse trailer repairs for the trainers, he is your guy. He is the first to say “Hello” and check on how you have been. His positive attitude influences everyone around him.

Ron has been involved in the harness racing industry approximately 30 years, starting with Todd and Lynette Buter. His first horse was High Velocity N and the horse that holds his heart currently is Bearly Behavin. Bearly Behavin lived up to her name as she was not the most loveable horse. It turned out to be a good thing she was loved so much by her owner. Ron’s most successful horse is RB who is currently racing at Yonkers with Todd and Lynette Buter. Ron has partnered with horseman Kim Pluta for over 10 years and they have built a solid friendship. Ron’s family includes six grandkids that all love him.

The Michigan Harness Horsemen’s Association is honored to induct Ron Merritt as Horsemen of the Year for 2022 by presenting him with the Dan Rathka Memorial Award.