What is USHWA

What is USHWA

The United States Harness Writers' Association was founded in 1947 by New York City-area sportswriters who were covering harness racing at Roosevelt Raceway. It remains the only media organization in harnes racing with a membership of newspaper, magazine, radio and TV, ad agency, publicists and others involved in harness racing communications.

With more than 300 members, most of them allied to one of 11 regional chapters, the association strives to bring about a closer relationship among the media, racetracks and horsemen to promote a centuries-old American-bred sport.

USHWA members in annual voting choose harness racing's most prestigious awards, the Living Hall of Fame, and the Horse-of-the-Year. Its Proximity Achievement Award is one of the sport's most cherished honors. It also recognizes top divisional winners and leading drivers and trainers at its annual awards dinner, which began in 1948.

The association is governed by a member board of directors, which represents the chapters and at large members (those living or working in regions where there is no chapter). Also serving are six national officers and all past presidents.

USHWA works with the U.S. Trotting Association in the Horse of the Year balloting, and the John Hervey Awards for excellence in writing and broadcasting. Its members choose Hall of Famers, so the association also works closely with The Harness Racing Museum & Hall of Fame at Goshen, New York.

Many chapters hold annual awards or recognition dinners to salute the leading horses and drivers in their areas. Some chapters also raise money for local charities.

Active Membership is open to those involved in harness race news coverage and promotion. Associate Memberships are available to any individual or company that shares USHWA's interest in publicizing and promoting harness racing.