USTA establishes special committee to review SRIF findings

[Grandstand Handicapper]

Other than posturing, and to some extent, grandstanding --- I for one would like to know not just what the USTA is going to do, but more importantly, what they feel they are authorized and allowed to do. The Standardbred Racing Investigative Fund (SRIF) is --- allegedly --- (and in their own words) "a 501(c)(3) formed to fund expert investigations into matters concerning the health and welfare of horses in the harness racing industry, such as prohibited medication practices and fraudulent trainer listings."

They claim that independence and confidentiality must go hand-in-hand to generate a reliable investigative product and that they took great care to maximize these features. This is a quote by none other than Russell Williams, who is/was the SRIF’s interim Secretary-Treasurer.

Who has authorized this group to supervise investigations and report results from completed investigations. When they report this to the racing commissions or other appropriate authorities --- what do they expect? What power do they have?

They clearly state the USTA is "the keeper of the Standardbred registry. As such, the Association is responsible for the data upon which the foundation of the Standardbred economy is built. Maintaining the integrity of this information is integral to the ongoing viability of the Standardbred economy, from which all USTA members benefit." OK.....and that gives you the authority to do what?

I think Russell Williams is overstepping his and the USTA's scope and authority. Yes, they can investigate --- but all I think they can do is take action against USTA members.

The SRIF’s initial funding came from a $250,000 matching grant from Hanover Shoe Farms. The initial officers were Dr. Bridgette S. Jablonsky, VMD, Robert Boni, and Russell Williams. I am at least initially glad to see Bob Boni there, but even at that, as a consigner, and someone who sells at Harrisburg, the last thing I want to see is someone who is part of the so called establishment. If Boni is objective and definitive in his role, great. But he owns horses, sells a lot through Northwood, and must stay on the good side of his clients, trainers, etc. Regardless, I question this group and their authority, objectivity, motivation, etc. --- and I think it's more of just an effort to thwart HISA, maintain status quo, and not let others do their job.

[Kirbys Ace]

So basically, they appointed a committee to look after another committees' findings?

 

[Grandstand Handicapper]

Well, I am sure their explanation would be very different. I just don't get it. The USTA has done nothing but sabotage HISA's --- and anyone else's --- efforts. They are a joke.

[Dingus]

They should start with Sandra Sokol at the Meadows.  She got hot a year or 2 ago, then went dead for a while.  Lately has been red hot.  Supplies must have reappeared.  Maybe her 2 owners, Demiere and Balis can explain.

[Grandstand Handicapper]

I think this is posturing, and in part, to capture more money.

[Grandstand Handicapper]

While I think this is posturing and grandstanding, it's sabotage and that's the part that hurts. The SBOANJ was originally against HISA, and has since changed their tune. I am a supporter of the SBOANJ and while that doesn't mean I agree with everything they say, do, etc.---standing in the way of HISA is not speaking up for yourselves. It's cannibalism, LOL. Seriously, for too many years, the "incumbents" did little to nothing. Now all they can say is you are wrong, leave it to us. You screwed up. You should be fired and thrown out.

[JENNY FROM THE BLOCK]

They should start with Sandra Sokol at the Meadows.  She got hot a year or 2 ago, then went dead for a while.  Lately has been red hot.  Supplies must have reappeared.  Maybe her 2 owners, Demiere and Balis can explain.


REALLY? SOKOL?  she is the least of this industries issues.  although im sure she is a cheat. there are way bigger fish to fry.
WE COULD MAKE A LIST.
THE USTA TOP TEN TRAINERS LIST NOT ONE OF THEM IS CLEAN...... IT WILL CONTINUE TO BE CROOKED AND CRIMINAL UNTIL THE INDUSTRY DIES.

[JENNY FROM THE BLOCK]

i dont even need a past performance book to make money in harness racing.
you can bet by driver and trainers and by watching the pools. pretty consistantly make money. thats kind sad.

[Yonkers1A]

The criminals are watching the inmates

[Late to the Paddock]

I think they announced this and the supposed beard crackdown in an effort to make it look like they are doing something, in the face of HISA style government intervention. Like "Oh, we don't need any regulation, we are already taking action." which is BS of course.

[Letsgo95]

I agree, that’s exactly what it looks like they are doing. While HISA would kill this industry the recent actions of Delaware and Maryland make a hard argument on why it is needed.

[Grandstand Handicapper]

I think they announced this and the supposed beard crackdown in an effort to make it look like they are doing something, in the face of HISA style government intervention. Like "Oh, we don't need any regulation, we are already taking action." which is BS of course.

Absolutely. Posturing, grandstanding, and defending status quo. You had how many decades? You failed. Now you are sabotaging others efforts. Very transparent.