The upstate New York chapter of the United States Harness Writers Association has announced that Bruce Tubin, the director of the Western New York Harness Horsemen’s Association, will receive the Service to Industry Award for his lifelong dedication to the sport of harness racing.
Tubin earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration and a Juris Doctor degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo. He discontinued a growing law practice in 1976 to actively pursue his first love, that of owning, training and driving Standardbreds. Tubin has been involved in the sport as an owner since 1972 and as a trainer-driver from 1976-1992.
Tubin became president and administrative director of the Western New York Harness Horsemen's Association in 1992. One of his first orders of business was to represent all of the New York State harness horsemen as a member of the board of directors of an industry-wide lobbying group that was ultimately successful bringing video lottery terminals to New York State racetracks. The result of that action was an immediate turnaround of the Standardbred racing and breeding industry that is still thriving to this day.
In western New York, Tubin negotiated the first designated purse account in harness racing. He inherited a floundering pension plan and made it solvent for its participants. Now it is one of the largest pension plans of its kind in the sport. He oversees a health insurance program that pays 60 per cent of the cost for member drivers and trainers and covers grooms for free. He understands all aspects of the industry and when addressing issues of importance to his constituents, works well with track management to reach a mutually beneficial resolution.
Tubin also represents the horsemen as a USTA director for District 8 in Upstate New York.
Tubin and his wife, Beth, have a daughter, Andrea, a son, Brian, and four grandchildren.
Tubin will receive his award in the Purple Haze Winner’s Circle at Batavia Downs on Saturday (December 12) during UNY-USHWA’s Night of Distinction.
(USHWA)