The Standardbred Horse Sales Company has announced that Russell Williams has acquired the company and named Dale A. Welk as the new president.

“We would like to announce to our valued consignors that Russell Williams has acquired the company,” said Welk in an announcement on Wednesday. “For more than 80 years, our sale has been a landmark for people buying and selling harness horses. We are making plans to build on our capabilities.”

Williams is president and CEO of Hanover Shoe Farms and president of the U.S. Trotting Association.

“Pete Spears shaped the modern configuration of the company and positioned us for great achievements in the near and far term,” said Williams. “We owe him a debt of gratitude.

“Dale A. Welk will be taking over as President of the sale company,” added Williams. “Few people know as much as Dale about running a horse sale, and he is liked and respected by all.”

Welk, who has been the company’s operation manager since 1989, announced that the sale will be returning to its regular location at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg after it had to move to Maryland last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are cataloging one of our best consignments ever,” added Welk, “and we’re excited to be returning to our normal Harrisburg location. We’re looking forward to seeing everyone this fall.”

Founded in 1939 by Lawrence B. Sheppard, the mission of Standardbred Horse Sales Company is to treat its customers and consignors with fairness and respect while selling the very best Standardbred racehorses in the world.

(With files from Standardbred Horse Sales Company)