Summer vacation isn’t here yet, but that hasn’t limited Harness Horse Youth Foundation (HHYF) educational efforts.
On April 29, a dozen youngsters attended the fun-filled (rainless) day at Shenandoah Downs. They spent the morning learning about grooming, harnessing and getting their hands-on horse time. They listened to guest speakers like the legendary trainer/driver Roger Hammer, the starter, the associate judge, the paddock judge and the commission veterinarian. A quick lunch at the concession stand (complete with funnel cakes and deep fried oreos for dessert) and then they were off to enjoy an afternoon at the races. Four lucky individuals who answered quiz questions correctly earned the chance to ride in the starting gate. All had the opportunity to meet and receive autographed Artsplace trading cards as well as watch a few races with ever-gracious John Campbell.
This spring opener was HHYF’s new program coordinator C.J. Holthaus's first official event and first time at the races. She reflected on the day: “What made the event truly special was the enthusiasm and engagement of the young participants. Even though many had little exposure to harness racing, they asked insightful questions and were keen to get involved in all the hands-on activities.The kids were not only eager to learn about harness racing, but they also had experience in grooming and cleaning hooves, and they weren't afraid to get their hands dirty.”
On May 2, HHYF stable stars CDs Miss M and Imas Hit along with human volunteers Vicky Rouch, Ned Green and Rick Robertson travelled to Oxford, Indiana, the birthplace of Dan Patch. A handful of adults as well as a group of preschoolers stopped by to visit the town square around lunchtime. In the afternoon, 230 fourth, fifth and sixth graders learned a bit about Dan Patch, Bulldog Hanover, and, of course, harness racing. This event was coordinated by Gwen Erwood as a part of the “Life and Times of the Great Dan Patch” celebration held throughout the week in honour of Dan Patch’s 127th birthday.
On May 6, HHYF trustee Suzanne D’Ambrose greeted 40 eager 4-Hers and their families at Fair Winds Farm in Cream Ridge, New Jersey to learn about foals and what happens on Standardbred breeding farms. Farm manager Heather Zitone took creativity to a new level in her discussion of artificial insemination and foal delivery. Attendees were allowed to watch ultrasounds done by the farm veterinarian. The day concluded with visits to paddocks with warm nuzzles from the foals boarded at the farm.
Tally through mid May: 300 new harness racing fans!
Registration is open for upcoming HHYF summer programs listed below.
- June 19: $40 - Jay County Fairgrounds, Portland, Indiana; registration deadline June 12
- June 28: $40 - Darke County Fairgrounds, Greenville, Ohio; registration deadline June 21
- July 7: $40 - DeLong Stable, Anderson, Indiana; registration deadline July 1
- July 8 - 12: $300 - Leadership Program, Crimson Lane Farm, Anderson, Indiana; registration deadline July 1
- July 18 - 20: $115 - Crimson Lane Farm, Anderson, Indiana; registration deadline July 11
- July 28 & 29: $75 - Windsor Fairgrounds, Windsor, Maine; registration deadline July 21*
- August 2: $75 - Goshen Historic Track, Goshen, New York; registration deadline July 21
- August 6 & 7: $75 - Gaitway Farm, Manalapan, New Jersey; registration deadline July 21
*Note change of location.
(With files from HHYF)