About Us
Ironhorse Stallions is a premier Thoroughbred operation based in Schuylerville, NY.
A New Chapter in Schuylerville
Ironhorse Stallions and Ironhorse Racing Stable have established a permanent base of operations at the historic Stone Bridge Farm Training Center in Schuylerville, NY. Located just minutes from Saratoga Springs, this world-class facility anchors our operation in the epicenter of New York's Thoroughbred industry.
By securing this premier farmland—complete with top-tier barns, training facilities, and paddocks—we have planted our flag on home turf. This isn't just a facility; it is a statement of our commitment to the New York breeding and racing community.
The Ironhorse Advantage: Cradle-to-Track
We offer a vertically integrated approach rare in today's marketplace. With a resident mare band of over 28 and a soon to be growing roster of stallions, including our foundation sire Bucchero, we provide a complete lifecycle solution under one roof.
From the breeding shed to the starting gate, our "cradle-to-track" model ensures consistent quality and care.
- Breeding & Foaling: Managing mares and foaling on-site to maximize New York incentive programs.
- Raising & Pre-Training: Young stock are raised and prepared for the track without the stress of shipping to Florida or Kentucky.
- Oversight: Complete control over nutrition, handling, and development ensures no gaps in your horse's education.
Strengthening the NY Program
Our mission is to keep investment dollars, talent, and equine potential right here in New York. While we value our connections in Kentucky and Florida, we believe New York breeders and owners deserve a local option that matches national standards.
By managing our operations in-state, we help owners maximize the lucrative New York-bred incentives while creating local jobs and enriching the state's racing legacy. Every mare bred and foal raised at Ironhorse Stallions strengthens the foundation of New York's racing future.
"Quadrupling Down" on New York
"This location isn't just a facility—it's a statement. To breed, foal, raise, and campaign in one unified base allows us to keep breeding capital and energy right here in New York. We are quadrupling down on this state as the home for our stallion and racing operations."
Benefits for Breeders
Comprehensive advantages of breeding with Ironhorse Stallions
A premier option for mares that might otherwise ship out of state.
Standing stallions in NY to capitalize on breeder awards.
Foaling and raising offspring in-state reduces shipping stress and keeps young horses closer to home.
Every foal raised locally supports New York's agricultural and racing economy.
Leadership
Meet the team behind Ironhorse Stallions.
Managing Partner
Harlan Malter has been a prominent figure in the Thoroughbred industry since 2007, serving as an owner, breeder, stallion manager, and syndicate leader. As the founder and Managing Partner of Ironhorse Racing Stable, Harlan has successfully campaigned horses on racing's biggest stages, from the Breeders' Cup to Royal Ascot.
A visionary entrepreneur who has founded three successful businesses, Harlan brings a spirit of innovation and enthusiasm to Ironhorse Stallions. He was instrumental in managing every phase of the standout stallion Bucchero's career—from his time on the track to his successful transition to stud in Florida and now New York.
Harlan's approach to the industry is deeply rooted in the concept of "team sport," a philosophy he carried over from his days as a college baseball player at Columbia University. In fact, the "Ironhorse" name is a tribute to Columbia legend Lou Gehrig. Harlan prides himself on building a deep network of equine professionals, breeders, and partners to ensure the success of the stable and its clients.
Photo: Anne M. Eberhardt
Bloodstock & Operations
John Dowd is a second-generation horseman who has dedicated his life to nearly every facet of the racing business. With a career that began on his family farm, John spent 21 years as a trainer, leading horses to top-tier events including the Kentucky Derby and the Breeders' Cup.
Following his training career, John transitioned into administrative and bloodstock leadership roles in Ocala, working with industry giants such as Adena Springs, Woodford Thoroughbreds, and OBS. As an independent bloodstock agent, he has identified and purchased multiple Graded Stakes winners for many of the sport's most prestigious owners and racing groups.
John brings unparalleled operational expertise and an extensive industry network to his role at Ironhorse Stallions. He oversees the breeding shed, bloodstock management, and farm operations, ensuring a high standard of care and quality. John is on-site through out the year to provide breeders with a true "cradle-to-track" solution.