When the Monticello-Goshen chapter of the United States Harness Writers Association held its 59th annual awards banquet on December 3, in the midst of the prominent slate of honourees and award winners, the chapter also presented Goshen Historic Track with an annual donation of $3,000.

Accepting on behalf of the non-profit organization was Tim Masters, this year’s recipient of the Amy Bull Crist Distinguished Service Award, and the catalyst behind many of the ongoing renovations and improvements at the ‘Cradle of the Trotter.’

Masters’ vision is simple, but nonetheless a challenge: “To restore the track to its previous glory while improving its reputation and status as a training facility.”

While performing his duties as the facilities manager and general manager, Masters brings a practical ‘can-do’ attitude to track operations. The iconic site has undergone progressive renovation to the 100-year-old grandstand with Masters directing the replacement of all the seats and the floors.

But all of that costs money, so, in just the last ten years the Monticello-Goshen chapter has donated nearly $40,000 to the ‘World’s Oldest Harness Track.’

Chapter officers Shawn Wiles (left) and Janet Terhune present Tim Masters with the $3,000 Goshen Historic Track donation from Monticello-Goshen USHWA (Geri Schwarz Photo)

USHWA National Vice President Shawn Wiles was quick to point out the chapter’s continued dedication to Goshen: “As long as the local harness racing community continues to support the Monticello-Goshen USHWA banquets and souvenir journal, we will continue to support both Goshen Historic Track and the Harness Racing Museum & Hall of Fame. For all the good that both these institutions do for our sport, it is our honour to continue to raise money on their behalf.”

GHT President Steve Jones stated, “The board of directors at Goshen Historic Track is grateful to the Monticello-Goshen chapter for their continued financial support. The track’s needs are greater now than ever, and this truly helps us to carry on with rebuilding and improvements to our National Historic Landmark.”

Matinee racing for the 2018 season will begin on June 3, and again on subsequent Sundays 10 and 17. Grand Circuit racing will start at Goshen Historic Track on Friday, June 29. Hall of Fame day will be on Sunday, July 1, with two more race dates slated for Saturday (June 30) and Monday (July 2).

Established in 1838, Goshen Historic Track encourages membership in their iconic facility. For more information check out their website (goshenhistorictrack.com).

(USHWA)