from the USTA Communications Department

Columbus, OH — Tragedy struck the Antonacci family and Lindy Farms this morning at the main farm in Connecticut.

According to postings on the Lindy Farms Facebook page, a large portion of the breeding barn at the farm in Somers collapsed under the weight of overnight snow.

“Four horses were trapped originally,” wrote Frank Antonacci, Jr. “One horse (Gladiator Lindy) was able to free himself, while the other three horses (Moni Maker, Lady Starlet and My Dolly) were trapped under the snow and rubble.

“All three were finally rescued but Lady Starlet and My Dolly were unable to be saved. Moni Maker seems to be doing well at this time.

“All of the horses at our farm are loved and none more so than the three mares that were trapped in this disaster this morning. They were the cornerstones of Lindy Farms and matriarchs to many of our top families. To have these mares endure this disaster is heartbreaking and we will all shed a tear for Lady Starlet and My Dolly. Lady Starlet and My Dolly were both champions on the racetrack and the breeding shed and will be missed greatly.

“Thankfully no people were injured in the collapse. We send great thanks to everyone involved in the rescue effort.”

Lady Starlet 2,1:59.2 ($251,112) was the winner of the 1992 Merrie Annabelle. She was also the dam of My Dolly 4,1:54.3 ($576,059), a 1997 Breeders Crown winner in the 2-year-old filly trot. My Dolly was the grand dam of The Lindy Reserve, the 2010 Peter Haughton Memorial champion.

To view a video report on the WFSB television station website, click on this link.