by Jerry Connors, the Pennsylvania Harness Racing Commission

Harrisburg, PA — Three individuals, all from different parts of the Pennsylvania Standardbred racing industry yet all united in their drive for excellence in the sport, have been named “Friends of Pennsylvania Harness Racing” and will be honored at the second annual Celebration of Pennsylvania Harness Racing at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs on Saturday, December 6.

Anton Leppler was for years the guiding force behind the Pennsylvania Harness Racing Commission. The former police chief’s insistence on integrity was marked by innovative programs for securing a level playing field for horses and humans alike, ensuring Pennsylvania fans of the best-possible quality of harness action. Leppler was also the driving force behind the creation of the “Celebration of Pennsylvania Harness Racing,” honoring the state’s best in Standardbred racing, and so it seems proper that Leppler receive this award as he heads into retirement from the Commission.

John Marshall is the vice president and general manager of The Meadows, southwest Pennsylvania’s harness track. Marshall is combining with the forces erecting a magnificent permanent casino facility at the track, and has been the dynamic interface for harness racing when meeting up with casino objectives. Marshall has made sure of harness racing’s continuance and security with only minimal amounts of downturn due to construction needs, and his hard work for racing deserves the night’s honor.

Ron Battoni operates in a third section of the harness sport, serving as Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Harness Horsemen’s Association, which represents the horsemen’s interest at both Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs and at Harrah’s Chester Racino. Battoni has maximized the influence of wealth that recently started flowing from the state’s slot machines, with his horsemen racing for unprecedented purses and bonus programs designed to benefit local horsemen. He has also been an innovator at partnering with racetracks to create both big-purse races and attractive promotions and giveaway items.

Leppler, Marshall, and Battoni will be honored as noted on December 6 at the second annual Celebration of Pennsylvania Harness Racing. Tickets for the event are available from the Pennsylvania Harness Horsemen’s Association’s Web site at www.pahha.com, clicking on “Tickets.” There is also information about hotel accommodations.