4-H Day at the Harness Racing Museum Brings Families and Horse Enthusiasts Together
- cll243
- Mar 18
- 2 min read
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Brieanna Hughes
NYS 4-H Horse Program
Email: bh548@cornell.edu
Goshen, NY: 4-H Day at the Harness Racing Museum Brings Families and Horse Enthusiasts Together
Goshen, NY – March 9, 2025 – More than 160 attendees gathered for a fun-filled, educational 4-H Day at the Harness Racing Museum & Hall of Fame, celebrating the Standardbred industry, equine education, and hands-on learning. The free open house event, hosted in partnership between the museum and the New York State 4-H Horse Program, welcomed families, horse lovers, and aspiring equestrians from across the state.
The day featured interactive exhibits, engaging presentations, and hands-on activities designed to introduce youth to the world of harness racing and equine care. A highlight of the event was a tack swap hosted by Orange County 4-H, bringing together equestrians to buy, sell, and exchange horse gear within the museum.
Throughout the day, visitors enjoyed special demonstrations from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, including a presentation by Shane Darish a Standardbred trainer, who provided an in-depth look at harness racing equipment, horse movements, and hoof care and drawing lessons with June Evers. Teen leaders from 4-H clubs across New York State also delivered inspiring presentations on equine careers, horsemanship, agriculture and the impact of 4-H in their lives.
The event was honored by the presence of Ralph Scunziano, Executive Director of the Agricultural and Standardbred Breeding and Development Fund, who emphasized the fund’s commitment to youth equine education.
“The Agriculture and NYS Horse Breeding Development Fund is committed to fostering youth engagement in the equine industry. We are proud to support 4-H and the Harness Racing Museum & Hall of Fame through our grants, which help make events like 4-H Day possible. Educating the next generation about Standardbreds not only fosters a love for horses, but also helps sustain and grow the future of harness racing in New York. Seeing so many enthusiastic young equestrians is a testament to the impact of 4-H and the strength of our equine community.” – Ralph Scunziano, Executive Director of The Agriculture & NYS Horse Breeding Development Fund
Families participated in horse-themed crafts, thanks to the dedicated staff at the Harness Racing Museum, who guided children in creating quality take-home projects. Attendees also explored the museum’s interactive exhibits, racing simulators, and stunning collection of harness racing artifacts, all available free of charge for the day.
This successful event showcased the strong partnership between the Museum and the NYS 4-H Horse Program, a collaboration that continues to expand opportunities for young people to learn about Standardbred horses and the equine industry.
“This event is a perfect example of how 4-H connects youth with real-world experiences in the horse industry,” said Brieanna Hughes, NYS 4-H Equine Youth Specialist. “Through hands-on learning, leadership opportunities, and community engagement, 4-H continues to inspire the next generation of equine professionals and enthusiasts.”
The New York State 4-H Horse Program and the Museum Education Department is proudly funded by the Agricultural and Standardbred Breeding and Development Fund, ensuring ongoing support for youth equine education across the state.
For more information on upcoming events, visit: Harness Racing Museum Website
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