Columbus, OH — The 2023 updated version of the U.S. Trotting Association’s rule book is now available on the USTA website by clicking here and will be available via the USTA Rule Book App found on Apple iTunes and Google Play stores by searching “USTrotting” in the coming weeks.

Printed copies of the book are free for USTA members and may be requested by contacting memberservices@ustrotting.com.

Following are highlights of the new rules in the updated 2023 Rule Book:

— All extended pari-mutuel infield ponds shall be enclosed by a fence or barrier.

— No contest races shall be called: in the event an accident occurs during a race and the field must pass the spot prior to the finish; if one or more driver or horse is down; if the safety of the drivers or horses is in jeopardy; if a horse is traveling clockwise; or if the racetrack is thrown into darkness during a race.

— A new membership type, Standardbred Incentive Program Membership (SIP), allows participants of SIP to join the USTA at a discounted rate (effective Jan. 1, 2024).

The entire list of adopted rule changes, which became effective on May 1, 2023, may be found here.