by Mark Ratzky, publicity, Cal Expo Harness

Sacramento, CA — Nestled in Cottonwood is Harmony Haven Therapeutic Riding and Horse Rescue, a facility devoted to horses and people. The farm is operated by Jeannie Womack and her daughter Tiffany.

“We rescue and rehabilitate horses, so they can rescue and rehabilitate the people who need them the most,” related Jeannie Womack, who for several years was a groom for the Steve and Vickie Desomer barn. “Horse therapy teaches people to challenge their bodies and minds to help them make their dreams of a happy and healthy life possible for themselves.”

Womack explained that Standardbreds work best for the program because they do anything and everything that is asked of them.

Harmony Haven is a non-profit organization and has been in operation for six years and “growing,” according to Womack.

“It’s all about leaving your mark or hoofprint and helping others to have a better life just because you were part of theirs.”

Among the well-known harness performers currently at Harmony Haven is Linear, the dam of last year’s 3-year-old pacing colt champion Bit Player.

“Linear is very valuable to our program because she is our main vaulting mare,” Womack continued. “She is also Tiffany’s main riding horse when we are pleasure riding.”

Among the other former harness performers on the grounds are Tricky Deal, whose offspring include Wastin Time and Cordealia; and the recently-retired Yiannoulas Boy, who is easily recognizable to Cal Expo racing fans.

For more information, go to www.harmonyhaven.wordpress.com.