The Ohio Harness Horsemen’s Association (OHHA) has approved a donation of $150,000 to the newly-formed Standardbred Transition Alliance (STA).

The donation is the first by a horsemen’s association. The STA, formed in 2018, will accredit and grant supplemental operating funds to groups that provide transition services for Standardbreds who are retiring from the sport and transitioning to a new role. The group expects to accredit and grant to 501(c)(3) organizations serving Standardbreds by the end of this year.

“Ohio has become a national leader in breeding and racing Standardbreds,” said Kevin Greenfield, outgoing president of the OHHA and a founding board member of the STA. “The OHHA board recognizes that, as an industry leader, it needs to be at the forefront of spearheading support for a uniform effort with respect to equine aftercare.”

“The entire STA board extends our thanks and appreciation to the OHHA for its financial commitment and confidence in our work,” said STA President David Reid. “Ohio is an important part of our industry and we are grateful they have taken this leadership position. We are working to develop a broad-based platform of support for STA. Our accreditation process will ensure that groups exercise sound business practices and equine care to the benefit of our horses and horsemen.”

(USTA)