by Ed Kobesky, Director of Media & Marketing, Pennsylvania Harness Horsemen’s Association

Lemoyne, PA — Sam Beegle, a 37-year veteran of the Standardbred industry, was elected president of the Pennsylvania Harness Horsemen’s Association by its board of directors. He will begin serving immediately.

PHHA photo

Sam Beegle

Mr. Beegle is a prominent owner, trainer and driver. He has served on the PHHA’s board of directors since 1985 and was a past president for eight years. He is also a USTA director in District 7 as well as the co-owner and managing partner of Ginger Tree Farms, a training facility in New Holland, Pa.

The election was necessitated by the unexpected passing of the PHHA’s longtime president, Earl Beal, Jr., in December.

“Earl was more than a business associate. He was a personal friend for many years,” said Mr. Beegle. “I feel a tremendous sense of responsibility to continue our work in a way that would make Earl proud. I’m humbled that our board selected me as his successor.”

Mr. Beegle begins his term at a difficult time. The PHHA’s two member tracks, Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs and Harrah’s Chester Casino & Racetrack, face retroactive cuts to the Race Horse Development Fund of approximately $46 million per year. In addition, the PHHA, along with its partners at the Meadows Standardbred Owner’s Association, were forced to step in and provide seven-figure support to help fund fair races that were cut from the state budget.

“Sam has picked up where Earl left off as we plan for reduced purses in 2010,” said Ron Battoni, the PHHA’s executive director. “We’ve made great progress and I believe we have a plan that will make the reductions survivable for our members and almost unnoticeable for fans.”

Mr. Beegle added, “We have some challenges ahead, but we are well-positioned to create an exciting racing product for the 2010 season. I look forward to working with Ron Battoni and the rest of our organization to benefit our membership and the Standardbred industry at large.”