Update: Tragic fire at Hanover Shoe Farms

A major fire tore through one of the barns at Hanover Shoe Farms on Sunday, April 12, resulting in the loss of 12 horses in what has been described as a devastating incident for one of harness racing’s most iconic breeding operations.

Initial reports indicated that 14 horses had perished in the blaze, but in a remarkable turn, a mare and her foal originally believed to have been lost were later found alive and unharmed. The update has provided a small but significant lift to those connected to the farm during an otherwise difficult time.

Importantly, no staff or personnel were injured in the fire, and the farm confirmed that no outside owned horses were involved in the affected barn.

Farm Manager Patti Murphy acknowledged the overwhelming support received in the aftermath, noting that all remaining horses from the damaged barn have been safely moved to surrounding paddocks, where they have access to water and grazing.

“We appreciate everyone that has expressed concern and would like them to know that the remaining horses from the barn involved are safe,” Murphy said in a statement.

She also paid tribute to the emergency services and staff who responded swiftly to the incident.

“We would like to express our deep gratitude to the firefighters who responded to the call and our staff for everything they were able to do.”

Hanover Shoe Farms, widely regarded as a cornerstone of the Standardbred breeding industry, now begins the process of recovery following a loss that will be felt across the global harness racing community.

by Harnesslink Media