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| Staff Writer |
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Deep in the heart of Kentucky bluegrass country lies Shawhan Place, a vibrant Thoroughbred breeding operation teeming with life and ambition.
Here, amidst rolling hills and pristine paddocks, a dedicated team led by Courtney Schneider, Director of Sales and Broodmare Manager, weaves a tale of passion, dedication, and a deep-rooted love for these magnificent creatures. Her passion extends beyond sales to the intimate moments of foaling and breeding. She wears many hats at Shawhan Place. Whether crafting running cards or preparing yearlings, Schneider’s dedication shines through. At Shawhan Place, pride and joy infuse every aspect, fostering a familyoriented environment where horse passion unites all.
Excitement vibrates through the bluegrass pastures of Shawhan Place, the Kentucky-based Thoroughbred breeding operation nestled amongst rolling hills and pristine paddocks. Their champion, Senor Buscador, stands poised to take on the prestigious Saudi Cup, the world’s richest horse race, igniting a collective thrill within the close-knit team.
“As a smaller farm by some standards, to have a horse of Senor Buscador’s calibre is very exciting for us, and to have him running on such a big stage and in the world’s richest race, it’s
just phenomenal.”
Beyond champion status, Senor Buscador embodies Shawhan Place’s dedication. Courtney Schneider, personally invested in each horse, witnessed his potential from birth. “To be around these horses throughout their careers...is so
special,” she says, highlighting the emotional connection that transcends results.
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This extends to the team, united by their love for horses, celebrating their journeys, win, lose, or draw. This passion fosters a supportive family environment where individual roles blend
into a shared purpose.
With sales and foalings aplenty Schneider, plans to cheer him on from afar. However, she dreams of experiencing international racing soon, mirroring their global reach.
Shawhan Place’s reach extends beyond Kentucky pastures, as Courtney Schneider proudly shares: “We’ve bred several stakes winners, many finding success in the Middle East.” Champions like Mucho Gusto, a Saudi Cup contender, and Fly
Down, a Dubai World Cup participant, showcase their impact.
“This past year,” she continues, “we sold a yearling to compete in Saudi Arabia. We’re excited to see what he can do!” But it’s more than sales. “I foal all the mares,” Schneider says, “and seeing them compete globally, especially Senor Buscador, is beautiful.”
This emotional connection transcends borders, forging a shared bond between breeder and horse, regardless of where they race. This global perspective isn’t limited to Schneider’s aspirations. “I’m a massive fan of travelling the world,” she admits, “I love to experience other cultures and observe how other parts of the world do things and experience different race days. It’s on my list to travel to the Saudi Cup, and I hope to make it over there.” Such ambitions highlight Shawhan Place’s willingness to learn and contribute to the broader equine community, transcending geographic limitations.
In anticipation of Senor Buscador’s participation in the Saudi Cup, Courtney Schneider, Director of Sales at Shawhan Place, expresses her eagerness to explore the international equine scene
firsthand.
“I’m a massive fan of travelling the world,” she enthuses, “observing different race days and how other places do things.” This desire mirrors Shawhan Place’s global perspective.
The success of horses bred at Shawhan Place in the Middle East underscores their international reach. Notable horses like Mucho Gusto and Fly Down have excelled in the region.
Schneider adds, “We were thrilled to sell a yearling out of Weekend Connection to compete in Saudi Arabia last year.” These achievements signify a shared passion for horses and a commitment to global excellence.
Rose’s Desert remains a prolific producer, with a foal due in April and several promising offspring already on the ground. “She’s a remarkable mare. Truly a once in a lifetime,” Schneider states proudly.
“Her offspring demonstrate impressive athleticism and strength.”
This dedication extends beyond individual horses, reflecting Shawhan Place’s commitment to breeding excellence across borders and cultures. Shawhan Place transcends breeding champions, fostering connections
worldwide.
“Clients from all corners of the globe join our family,” says Schneider, highlighting their collaborative spirit. Like Senor Buscador’s journey, this passion unites them—a testament to dedication, passion, and a global love for horses. Their celebration echoes beyond the finish line, enriching lives through connections that span the world.
Shawhan Place, once a single mare, now flourishes as a Kentucky breeding haven with over 100 horses and a passionate team. Champions like Rose’s Desert’s foals bring pride, but every horse
holds value.
“They all make us proud,” says Schneider.
While Keeneland is critical, they strategically select venues for each yearling, showcasing their 35–40 prospects based on the calibre and aptitude of their charges. Beyond sales, their dedication lies in connections, building a global “family” united by their love for horses. Senor Buscador’s journey embodies this spirit: excellence, ambition, and a love that transcends borders.