The Standardbred Breeders and Owners Association of New Jersey’s annual board of directors meeting and election was held on Friday (Oct. 19) at Freehold Raceway.
The board of directors gave the committee summary reports. Mike Gulotta reported that the pension funds are benefitting from the change of investment managers with returns better than expected and funds in line with benchmarks. Chris Ryder reported that racing days in New Jersey are still in negotiations, however he is hopeful that 2019 race dates will be similar to the 2018 dates. He also reported that the benevolent fund has assisted many members and horsemen with health issues and funeral assistance. Mike Klau reported that over 400 mares were bred in New Jersey this season.
Insurance committee head Anthony Romano announced that there will not be any changes to insurance benefits and no increases to premiums for members in 2019. Anthony Perretti reported that TrotPac is continuing to build important relationships with legislators to help raise awareness to the need for alternative revenue to support our industry and to help push the $20 million appropriation bill through.
The board of director election results were announced from the 360 ballots that were received.
Mike Gulotta and Richard Meirs were each re-elected in the breeder category as they ran unopposed.
Thomas Pontone and Dennis Lane were both running for one spot in the owner category. Incumbent Thomas Pontone will continue to represent the owners as board of director.
The driver/trainer category had two open seats available this election. The nominees were incumbents Chris Ryder and Thomas Luchento, and new comers Linda Toscano and Ray Baynes. Chris Ryder and Linda Toscano were elected to fill the two positions.
The SBOANJ would like to thank all members who ran and voted in this year’s election. It is important to have members involved in all aspects of the election. We would also like to thank all those that attended the meeting, especially Taylor Palmer, one of the original founders of the Standardbred Breeders and Owners Association of New Jersey.
(SBOANJ)