Harness: Hanover Shoe Farms statement on barn fire

The following a statement from Hanover Shoe Farms on a fire that took the lives of 12 horses on Sunday, April 12.

To the Harness Racing Community:

On Sunday (April 12) Hanover Shoe Farms experienced the worst thing that can ever befall a horse farm, a devastating fire that unfortunately claimed the lives of 12 horses.

All three divisions of the Hanover operation - equine, veterinary, and maintenance - fought to save and help the horses in our care. Patti Murphy, Courtney Evans, and Tom Gillman, heads of those three divisions, performed with distinction as did our people who worked with them.

First responders in the area arrived quickly and performed professionally.

The outpouring of messages and offers of assistance from the horse community and former employees has been overwhelming and comforting and we are forever grateful to those volunteering their time and energy to assist.

This was heartbreaking, yet our heartfelt thanks go out to those mentioned above, and we go forward knowing that no matter how sorely we may be tested our people are equal to it. That's why we are the greatest name in harness racing and are honored and proud to be part of it.

The Hanover Shoe Farm family