Posted: April 10, 2025
The Penn State Equestrian Research Team (PSERT) took a trip to Hanover Shoe Farms to learn the behind the scenes of Standardbred breeding. From looking into the stallion books, to even helping with embryo transfers, PSERT took a deep dive into the world of racing.
On April 1st, the Equine Research Team at Penn State (PSERT) had the opportunity to visit the largest standardbred breeding facility in North America, Hanover Shoe Farms. Residing on 3,000 acres in Hanover, PA.
This breeding farm was founded in the early 1900s by Harper D. Sheppard and Clinton N. Myers, who were determined to make Hanover the greatest name in harness racing. While touring the farm, students of PSERT were able to learn all aspects of breeding, from the stallion books to the barn. The visit included the opportunity to see the yearling pastures, the hospital barn, the breeding barn, the semen collection lab, and hands-on observation of an embryo transfer. Two students were even given the opportunity to assist the on-staff veterinarian in pushing developing embryos into their recipient mares. In addition to learning how embryo transfers and embryo flushes work, students visited the semen collection la,b which allowed them to learn about sperm fertility, motility, and mobility. This incredible trip allowed PSERT to observe the life of a horse at all stages, from developing embryo, to retired pasture mares and stallions.
For more incredible opportunities to learn about the equine world and participate in equine research, look to join the Equine Research Team at Penn State!
