On Wednesday, July 1, Southwind Farms announced the New Jersey-based breeding farm will cease operations at the end of the 2028 season. 

The statement from Southwind Farms appears below.

It is with deep sadness and reflection that we announce Southwind Farms will cease operations at the conclusion of the 2028 season

The closure of Freehold Raceway and the ongoing uncertainty of The Meadowlands has made it impossible to sustain what was once a thriving and proud breeding operation in New Jersey.

Unfortunately, a facility of Southwind’s size, history, and purpose cannot simply be relocated to Kentucky or Ohio. As a result, the decision to close, while painful, is unavoidable.

Our plan moving forward is as follows:

• A full dispersal of Southwind-owned mares will take place in the coming month on PEO online.
• A limited foal crop 2027 will result only from mares in existing partnerships to which we are contractually obligated.
• There will be small yearling crops in 2027-2028
• Regarding the stallions, all strategic decisions will be made by the respective syndicate managers.
• Our core staff will remain in place through 2028.

Many of our long-standing team members will retire from Southwind at that time, including our Farm Manager Laura Young, whom has been with us for over 35 years.

We are proud to say they will retire with the respect they have earned over decades of dedication to Southwind Farms and the Standardbred horse industry.

By 2028, the iconic Southwind gates will close for the final time.

We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who supported Southwind Farms throughout the years. Our morals, values, and commitments were always upheld, and that mattered to us. We are especially thankful to Barry (Skolnick), whose generosity and integrity allowed Southwind to continue for many years following the passing of his parents (Allen & Connie). His stewardship honoured their legacy and ours.

We are going out with dignity and respect. It brings us comfort to know that Southwind was truly loved and respected within the industry. While the farm will close, the Southwind name — and what it stood for — will live on for many years to come.

(Southwind Farms)