Ohio Colt Racing Association Announces Bob Giest as the 2024 Dr. H.D. Schoonover Award Winner and Dick Brandt, Sr. Extra Effort Award Recipient.

Bob Geist is the Superintendent for the Harness Program at the Mercer County Fair.

The Ohio Colt Racing Association is proud to announce Bob Giest of Celina, Ohio, as the recipient of the 2024 Dr. H.D. Schoonover Award and the Ohio Harness Horsemen’s 23rd Annual Dick Brandt, Sr. Extra Effort Award. These prestigious honors recognize individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and passion for Ohio harness racing and their local fair communities.

The Dr. H.D. Schoonover Award, first established in 2001, celebrates individuals who exemplify a deep love for Ohio harness racing, particularly at the county fair level, along with the optimism, passion, and patience to both participate in and foster the sport. The award is named in memory of Hobart "Doc" Schoonover, a respected veterinarian, driver, and trainer of trotters from Findlay, Ohio. Schoonover’s legacy includes decades of commitment to harness racing, making his final winning drive aboard Speedy Lizzy in 2011 at the age of 93.

This year’s honoree, Bob Giest, has been recognized for his enduring enthusiasm for harness racing and his contributions to the sport at the grassroots level. His dedication to the county fair racing scene and his commitment to fostering its future make him a fitting recipient of this award.

In addition to the Schoonover Award, Bob has also been honored with the Dick Brandt, Sr. Extra Effort Award, which highlights significant contributions to county fair racing. Offered annually by the Ohio Harness Horsemen’s Association (OHHA), this award reflects the association’s commitment to enhancing local racing programs. It is presented to individuals or local horsemen's associations who have demonstrated extraordinary involvement and assistance with racing programs during fair week, as well as their broader commitment to supporting their local fairs and communities.

Bob’s dual recognition with these prestigious awards underscores his exceptional efforts to promote and sustain harness racing at the county fair level. His dedication, involvement, and passion for the sport continue to leave a lasting impact on the Ohio racing community.

Pictured Left to Right: Roy Burns, Doug Ballinger, Bob Geist, and Mike Woebkenberg