Walsh Harness & Saddlery Hires Horsewoman Nancy Johansson

Horsewoman Nancy Johansson has been appointed to the Walsh Harness & Saddlery sales team.  

Johansson, 30, of Allentown, N.J., will focus on expanding Walsh’s products to both the Standardbred and Thoroughbred audiences, and will assist in boosting the company’s international presence.

“Nancy brings a wealth of knowledge to Walsh,” Paul Trieber, Walsh President and CEO stated. “Besides her lifelong, hands-on experience with world-class horses, Nancy has business savvy and integrity that is second to none. As well, she’ll be very successful in our research and development because of her experience and passion for horses.”

Johansson is the daughter of Hall of Fame Standardbred conditioner Jimmy Takter.  In addition to being the caretaker of champions Tom Ridge, Muscle Massive, Passionate Glide and Simply Business, Johansson has served as the barn manager for Takter’s multi-million dollar earning stable for the past decade.

“I fell in love with Standardbreds from the time I could walk and follow my father to the barn,” Johansson explained. “In the past two years, the four horses I’ve taken care of have earned over $4 million, and all of them have worn Walsh equipment.  In the barn I’m very particular about my equipment and have always emphasized the importance of having great equipment on my horses.  When you’re involved in a sport where the fifth of a second can make the difference in winning $200,000 or $10,000, having the best equipment is paramount to success.”

Walsh Harness & Saddlery was founded in 1914, and since then has supplied the global horse industry with quality products known for their craftsmanship and longevity.  All of Walsh’s items are 100% American made at their Brookfield, Wisconsin facility.

“When Paul Trieber bought Walsh, I established a relationship with him that was mutually beneficial,” Johansson recalled. “I was very up front with him and would tell him what I liked or didn’t like about a product, and how I thought it could be improved.  Eventually, when he wanted to launch a new product, he’d send it to me to evaluate and make suggestions.

“Properly fitting equipment is so important to the comfort of the horses,” Johansson stressed. “Paul is sincerely concerned that the Walsh product is useable and comfortable for the horses, and he stands behind everything he sells one hundred percent.  Walsh may be more expensive than some equipment, but it is the best quality on the market.”

Johansson brings a global presence to Walsh, Treiber believes.

“Nancy has countless contacts in both the Standardbred and Thoroughbred industries, and will help open the door into some new European markets.  Since she’s hands-on with the horses, she easily relates to our customers and their needs,” Treiber confirmed.

“One of my goals is to reach a larger market, and at the same time still care for the person with a two to three horse stable,” Johansson offered. “We’re working on putting together a Standardbred-specific catalog for racehorses that will be set up in an uncomplicated fashion so that trainers can go through it and quickly order items they need.”

Fluent in Swedish as well as English, the multi-talented Johansson says she is confident she can expand Walsh’s sales to the Scandinavian and European markets.

“Through my international contacts, I hope to increase Walsh’s overseas market,” she revealed. “Walsh is extremely respected in Europe, but it’s not always easy to find our products there. I hope to make a difference in that arena.

“I believe I can get the Walsh voice heard in the Thoroughbred industry,” Johansson added. “My understanding of horseracing and of the equine athlete in general has given me a great appreciation for the Thoroughbred racehorse.”

Johansson is married to catch-driver Marcus Johansson and is mother to Ella, 7, and Marcus, Jr., 4.

Walsh is active in the horseracing and equine industry through their sponsorships with the Harness Horse Youth Foundation and U.S. Hunter Jumper Association.

Dealer Merchandising Tool: Walsh Store Banners

For Walsh authorized dealers, our new store banners provide a new way for you to proudly promote Walsh products. The banner features the Walsh logo with US flag to promote American workmanship.  The banners are uniquely framed with our triple-stitched leather border to emphasize Walsh workmanship and add elegance to your display.  They feature a brass name plate that is custom engraved with your business name. Two brass eyelets make them easy to hang from your wall or ceiling.

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Banners are complimentary for authorized Walsh dealers.  Contact Customer Service to order your custom banner today!

Thanks to The Paddock Saddlery in Chagrin Falls, Ohio for sharing the photo of their display.

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Walsh Harness proudly supports New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program

Walsh supports the New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program. This program offers retiring racehorses a safe-haven, rehabilitation, and continued education through placement in experienced, caring homes.  It provides a safety net for these horses matching them with qualified individuals and following up on their rehabilitation and vocational training to ensure a successful transition. Additionally, the Program acts as an outreach to disadvantaged youth challenging them through the equine experience and motivational teachings to set worthy goals. To learn more about New Vocations and their program visit www.horseadoption.com



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