The horsepeople of New Brunswick have announced that the New Brunswick Standardbred Breeders and Owners Association (NBSBOA) will become the one voice for harness racing in the province.
On February 1, a transitional board of directors was appointed from five groups across New Brunswick. The representatives are as follows:
Fredericton Horsemen's Association: Edward Harvey
Moncton Horsemen's Association: Jeffrey Lewis
North Shore Trotting Club: Clayton McCoombs
Saint John Harness Horsemen's Association: Sam Hodgin
Woodstock Driving Club: Robyn Dickison.
Each group will retain a chapter status, host local fundraisers and work together for marketing and promotions.
This board will be in effect until the Annual General Meeting within the next two months. Additionally, there will be two spots available for active breeders within the industry.
It is hoped that with one Association there will be a unified voice in dealing with Government.
The incoming board would like to thank the following people for their selfless dedication to the industry in New Brunswick. They are: Glen McEwen, Dawn and Ted Bremner, Stephen Downey and Andre Moeller.
From the transitional board, Sam Hodgin was elected President; Ed Harvey, Vice-President and Jeff Lewis, Secretary/Treasurer. Robyn Dickison was elected Privacy Officer.
"These are both uncertain, challenging and yet exciting times in harness racing in New Brunswick," says Hodgin. "The industry is worth investing in as it yields a strong positive economic impact to the province through job creating."
Horse Racing New Brunswick's President Dr. Mitchell Downey believes this move is pivotal for the long-term success of racing in New Brunswick.
"The model that is HRNB, while formed with great intentions, isn't working to the success it can," said Downey. "Many directors represent each group at our (HRNB's) table and sometimes are placed into conflict from what their individual members want and what might be the best course for the industry as a whole. Creating two entities will allow for a fruitful and beneficial discussion with all parties in the room, fully abreast of what's ongoing in racing."
Details for the AGM will be forthcoming as soon as they are available. For more information please contact the directors at the emails listed below.
Sam Hodgin: [email protected]
Ed Harvey: [email protected]
Jeff Lewis: [email protected]
Robyn Dickison: [email protected]
Clayton McCoombs: [email protected]
(HRNB/NBSBOA)