Eric Sharbaugh, 51, former executive vice president and chief executive officer of the U.S. Trotting Association, passed on December 17, 2008, in Harrisburg, Pa. as the result of an apparent stroke.
Before joining the USTA in 2005 Sharbaugh had served as a vice-president of a Pennsylvania information technology firm. He was a 1980 honours graduate of Penn State University -- and a lifelong fan of harness racing.
Sharbaugh had owned many Standardbred racehorses, and, according to his application for the USTA position, “funded a significant portion of my college expenses by announcing the races on the Pennsylvania Fair Circuit.” After joining the USTA he continued to announce the fair races at York, Pa. each year.
He left his position at the USTA earlier this year.
"It was a sad day yesterday when news of Eric Sharbaugh's death reached us," USTA President Phil Langley said. "Eric was a man of integrity, great intelligence and had an impassioned love of harness racing. During his time at USTA he especially contributed to the modernization of our Data Systems. The Directors and employees of USTA send their condolences to his family. Personally, I will miss him as a friend who shared our love for harness racing."
A viewing will be taking place between 6:00 and 8:00 p.m. Sunday, December 21 at Parthemore Funeral Home, 1303 Bridge Street, New Cumberland, Pa.
The funeral service will take place at 10:30 a.m. Monday, December 22 at St. Theresa's Church, 1300 Bridge Street, across the street from the funeral home.
Memorial donations can be sent to the Humane Society of Harrisburg, 7790 Grayson Road, Harrisburg, Pa., 17111.
Condolences can be sent to Mary Ann Sharbaugh at 5537 North Front Street, Harrisburg, Pa., 17110.
Please join SC in offering our condolences to the family and friends of Eric Sharbaugh.
(USTA)