Richard Sharbaugh, an announcer, horseman, and member of a leading Pennsylvania harness racing family, passed away last week at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania hospital
at the age of 54.
Sharbaugh is the son of Richard E. Sharbaugh, former executive secretary of the Pennsylvania Harness Racing Commission, and the brother of Eric Sharbaugh, former executive vice president of the U.S. Trotting Association. Both preceded him in death.
In more recent years, Sharbaugh served as announcer at Pocono Downs, and also called races along the Pennsylvania county fair circuit (as did his brother, even when chief of the USTA). Sharbaugh posted 40 wins as a driver, and 79 wins with a fine career UTR of .329 as a conditioner. He also worked as a caretaker for several racing outfits.
Sharbaugh is survived by his mother, Patricia Prendergast; daughters Kristi Woods, Patricia Sharbaugh, and Erika Thomas; two grandsons; and sisters Nancie Richards and Susan Sharbaugh.
Services and interment were private. Contributions can be sent to Bethesda Mission, Box 3041, Harrisburg PA 17105.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Richard Sharbaugh.
(PHRC)