Standardbred Development Commission

Levi Tkach and John Izzo attended the Ohio Standardbred Development Commission meeting on January 14, 2014.  During the meeting there was a lot of discussion about the Ohio Harness Horsemen Association’s proposal for Ohio Breeder Awards.  The consensus of those present supports the creation and implementation of awards for qualifying Ohio breeders and a draft proposal was circulated for comment.  While the Ohio Racing Commission joined the consensus to move forward with breeder awards, Racing Commission Chairman Schmitz said that other breeders needed to be consulted. Chairman Schmitz further expressed doubts about get a formal proposal to the Ohio legislature this year.  

In other business, the 2014 budget and conditions for the 2014 program were  approved.  During discussion Stacey Cahill suggested changing all finals to nine horses, to give another horseman the opportunity to run for the big money.  Although the Commission approved increasing the number of horses in the 4-year old class to 9 in the championship race, Steve McCoy of the OHHA disagreed with adding a ninth horse to the 2-3 year old championship race and thought there needed to be more discussion.  By a 2 to 1 vote, there will now be nine horses in all finals.  Sixteen fairs have agreed to work with the OHHA regarding their circuits.  Three more fairs may agree by next week.