by T.C. Lane, Director of Registry and Member Services

Columbus, OH — The United States Trotting Association is currently accepting applications for the Racing Officials Accreditation Program’s Harness School. The school will be conducted at The Meadows Racetrack and Casino, Washington, Pa, beginning Tuesday (Nov. 7) through Tuesday (Nov. 14). The program is open to 20 qualified applicants and deadline for submission of applications and payment will be Friday (Oct. 20).

The 60-hour educational seminar will be conducted under the auspices of the Racing Officials Accreditation Program (ROAP) and participants will receive all of the instructional requirements necessary to become an accredited racing official. Most jurisdictions require ROAP accreditation to become a steward or judge.

The school provides a formal way to cover both basic, day-to-day responsibilities and technical subjects including medication/drug testing and administrative law/hearings. The seminar will be taught by nationally recognized judges/stewards, veterinarians, attorneys and other instructors.

Upon completion of the school, applicants may become a ROAP Accredited Harness Racing Official upon satisfactorily completing a total of five examinations consisting of: an oral examination, a racing video analysis examination, written examination on medication and drug testing, legal and regulatory issues and general rules and regulations.
The student must also further meet the experience criteria required for accreditation by ROAP. For further information regarding the accreditation process click here. https://www.horseracingofficials.com/education

The fee for this program will be $550. Students are responsible for their own transportation and lodging while attending the school. Some meals will be provided. The USTA will have a block of rooms at a nearby hotel at a reasonable rate; information will be released once the students have been selected.

To apply for the program complete the online application at this link. https://www.horseracingofficials.com/classes/40057

Once the application is received, ROAP staff will contact the applicant with further information. The school is limited to 20 qualified applicants. All applicants will be notified of acceptance by Friday (Oct. 27).

To find out more, contact TC Lane at tc.lane@ustrotting.com or call 877.800.8782, extension 3203.