West Springfield, MA — Standardbreds had a strong presence at the New England Equine Affaire in West Springfield, Mass., in early November.

Standardbreds had a strong presence at the New England Equine Affaire. Photo courtesy of Kelly Conn.

Colleen Nolan-Tran showcased both of her Standardbreds, Tidewater Tomcat and Determine This, adopted from New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program. Kelly Conn, from Vermont, brought her home-bred trotting gelding, Xing The Delaware. Meaghan Martin brought her pacing-bred mare Lindons Rose Me N, and Stephanie Jacobs brought her Standardbred Retirement Foundation alum, Shades Of Cara.

Each horse showcased the best attributes of the breed, including their versatility and calm, can-do demeanor in demonstrations and clinics throughout the weekend.

To see a video compilation of the weekend’s demonstrations produced by Tran’s husband, Dan Tran, visit YouTube.

Since 1996, the Standardbred Equine Program has worked with owners of off-the-track Standardbreds to educate the general public about the many disciplines Standardbreds excel at once they are retired from racing. For more information about the SEP at the USTA, visit LifeAfterRacing.ustrotting.com.