by Frank Salive, publicity director, Isle Pompano Park

Pompano Beach, FL — She’s the mother of two sons, a trainer, the wife of an accomplished trainer, a horse owner, and an integral component in the ongoing operations of the Florida Standardbred Breeders And Owners Association (FSBOA). Now, Rosie (Rosalia) Huff of Coconut Creek, FL has found yet another way to serve the industry by accepting a membership in the Florida chapter of the United States Harness Writers’ Association (USHWA). The timing of the announcement comes just before the annual baby races for Florida-breds commence on Saturday, June 18 at The Isle Casino Racing Pompano Park.

Lap Time Photo — Skip Smith

Rosie Huff was in the winner’s circle often in the Fall of 2010 at The Isle Casino Racing Pompano Park with standout 2-year-old pacing colt Full Of Sand. In this photo, she was joined by sons Ryan and Ronnie after that colt won the FSBOA championship.

“I’ve been in the horse business since I was ten years old back in New Jersey thanks to two of my uncles” Huff says. “My uncle Joe had riding horses and standardbreds and raced in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. My first exposure to Florida was in 1982 with my uncle Pete at the South Florida Trotting Centre and at Sunshine Meadows. After that I worked for Ray Van Thomas, Mickey McNichol, Stanley Dancer and Gordon Norris. It was while working for three years with Stanley Dancer that I met my future husband, Jake Huff, in 1991 and we married in 1996. While Jake is up at Pocono with a stable again this summer, I’m training and racing the Florida-breds here,” explained Rosie.

In addition to a exceptionally busy life agenda, Rosie is also an accomplished author in her own right. She makes an invaluable contribution each year to the annual FSBOA awards night, sponsored by the Florida chapter of USHWA. She writes articles for the evening’s keepsake program, serves as the advance ticket sales coordinator on the Pompano backstretch, and assists with the overall organization and execution of the function.

“I’m really happy to be joining the Florida chapter of USHWA since I really believe in the goals of the organization. In addition to my work with the FSBOA, I see it as another way I can serve our Florida industry,” Huff added.