Harness: Winbak Farm building a new fan base

The month of September has been busy at Winbak. The farm has hosted two events with more than 30 people who are new to the Standardbred breeding business and harness racing.

On September 5, Delaware Senator Stephanie Hansen (who represents the Middletown district), Dave Hansen (her husband), Sal DiMario (Executive Director of the Delaware Standardbred Owners Association), Rebecca Kidner (counsel for Delaware Standardbred Owners Association and Lobbyist) and Judy Davis-Wilson (executive administrator for Delaware Standardbred Breeders Fund), visited Winbak of Delaware and Maryland. The guests learned about the breeding business, harness racing and the yearling season. For those who already knew about the business, they learned more about Winbak Farm. The tour guests also enjoyed a Clydesdale wagon ride.

On September 16, Maryland’s World Trade Center Institute (WTCI) held its 3rd Annual Edge Retreat at Winbak Farm. The farm was the host to 25 rising business leaders representing major companies in Maryland. The Edge program is made up of candidates from Maryland’s leading companies who are selected for their future potential in global business.

On the first night of the event, the attendees held leadership activities at the farm. The following day, Joe Thomson, owner of Winbak Farm, spoke to the retreat attendees about harness racing, Winbak Farm and its global business. The guests were given a tour of Winbak Farm of Maryland, including the racing and yearling divisions. James Ladwig, Winbak Farm yearling manager, gave a demonstration on what to look for in a yearling and how to pick the best athlete possible. Guests also learned the impact that harness racing and breeding has on the economy. They were then treated to a Clydesdale wagon ride.

Joe believes it is important to use the farm as a tool to promote the industry. “The Edge program is one of the most forward thinking ideas for U.S. and International business I’ve seen. It is indeed a privilege to allow Winbak to be a setting for their retreat. It is also a great backdrop to introduce theses candidates to the Standardbred industry,” said Joe Thomson, owner of Winbak Farm.

-edited release (Winbak Farm)