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John Shirreffs, Trainer of Zenyatta and Kentucky Derby Winner Giacomo, Dies at 80

Santa Anita leads tributes that emphasize his horse-first ethos.

Overview

  • He died in his sleep Thursday morning at his home near Santa Anita Park, and no cause of death has been announced.
  • Reports say he had felt ill after returning from Ocala, Florida, where he inspected 2-year-olds for prospective purchase.
  • Santa Anita issued a public remembrance noting the track’s Zenyatta statue and praising his care for horses and people.
  • He remained an active trainer with more than 30 horses, including Baeza and Westwood; two weeks ago Westwood gave him a San Pasqual Stakes win.
  • Equibase lists his career at 589 wins and about $58.58 million in earnings, though some reports cite 596 wins, reflecting early discrepancies in tallies.