'Jump' Newsletter - Edition 11
'Jump' Newsletter - Edition 11
"He was the National Steeplechase Association’s all-time leading trainer by wins with 1,242 victories beginning in 1966, and his horses earned almost $25 million on the jumps circuit"
Welcome to the eleventh edition of 'Jump.'
Jonathan Sheppard, a legendary figure in American steeplechase racing, has passed away. An emblem of dedication and excellence, Sheppard left an indelible mark on the sport that will be remembered for generations to come.
NSA Director of Racing Bill Gallo, who dedicated the 2020 NSA Yearbook to the retiring Sheppard, summarized The Master’s contribution to the sport succinctly:
“Over time, which has become a long time, Jonathan Sheppard not only remained the face of steeplechase racing in America but the heart and soul of it. Furthermore, he crossed the boundaries of jump racing and flat racing so gracefully and successfully that he brought awareness and credibility to our sport, which often idles in anonymity."
Added NSA President Al Griffin: No other person has impacted American Steeplechasing the way Jonathan Sheppard has, both as a horseman and a gentleman. He will be greatly missed by all.”
Dan Sheppard's son recently announced a Celebration of Life to honor his father's extraordinary legacy.
"A Celebration of Life for Jonathan Sheppard will be held October 12, 2023 at Buttonwood Farm, 361 Lamborntown Road, West Grove, PA 19390 at 3:00 pm, in the 100 acre field, where his training career began!!!"
The memorial is open to everyone!
Steve Coxon - USASteeplechase
In Case You Missed It: This Week's Top 4 USA Jump Racing Stories
Contents
Trainers - Legendary Trainer Jonathan Sheppard passes away at the age of 82.
Jockeys - Tom Garner to Retire after the Fall
Horses - A return trip to Far Hills to defend his American Grand National crown is on the cards for Hewick
Feature Meets - Summer Jump Racing winds down at Colonial Downs.
“The ‘Jump newsletter’ is an absolute boon to me. Now domiciled in the UK, it keeps me updated on US jump racing. Thank you.” - Barbara Shaw (Facebook)
Jonathan Sheppard, an acclaimed Racing Hall of Fame trainer whose accomplishments extended from steeplechase race meets to the highest levels of thoroughbred racing, died Sunday, August 27, at his home in Hollywood, Florida. He was 82.
By Don Clippinger
NYRA Photo
The British-born horseman had retired from training early in 2021 with records that will, in several instances, stand forever. He was the National Steeplechase Association’s all-time leading trainer by wins with 1,242 victories beginning in 1966, and his horses earned almost $25 million on the jumps circuit. Both are records.
Tom Garner to Retire this Fall
By The National Steeplechase Foundation
According to Saturday's Saratoga Special, this fall will be the final season of race riding for jockey Tom Garner.
“That’s probably my last ride at Saratoga,” he said. “At the end of the year I’m going to retire. It’s been 16 years. I had my first ride when I was 16 in England and I really appreciate everyone that has put me up. I got a little emotional when I crossed the line. I’m going to ride the rest of the season here . . . I’m going to focus on training and doing some bloodstock and my wife Devon will be delighted to hear that I’m finishing in the year. I rode my first Grade 1 winner here on Winston C. This place holds a very special place in my heart and I’ll miss it but hopefully I’ll win it one day as a trainer.”
Best wishes for a fantastic final fall season, Tom!
Photo Credit - Virginia Horse Racing (Facebook)
A return trip to Far Hills to defend his American Grand National crown is on the cards for Hewick, with the Gold Cup at Cheltenham his long-term aim.
By IrishRacing.com
A return trip to Far Hills to defend his American Grand National crown is on the cards for Hewick, with the Gold Cup at Cheltenham his long-term aim.
The likable 'Shark' Hanlon trained eight-year-old was running a huge race when falling two out in the blue riband event at Cheltenham, winning the Grade 2 Oaksey Chase on his next start at Sandown.
Then a fine fourth at the highest level overflights at Auteuil in May, he since disappointed when 14th in the Galway Plate.
Speaking at Downpatrick on Monday afternoon, Hanlon gave an update on his stable star, saying: "He is out in the paddock still, he is with the owner. He is enjoying life.
"We are going to talk over the weekend. The plan was to bring him in on the 1st of September and maybe go back to America with him. I'd say he will be in next week and we are looking forward to it.
"The long-term aim is next March for Cheltenham.
News - Three Hurdle races scheduled for September 8th
By Tod Marks
Summer Jump Racing winds down at Colonial Downs.
Races originally carded for Sept. 1, will be run a week later, on Sept. 8. Three hurdle races will close out the season: an open maiden, 110 ratings handicap, and the $100,000 Life’s Illusion stakes for fillies and mares.
In addition, Colonial will offer a $50,000 flat race at two miles on the turf for jumpers who have started at the meet without a victory.
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Check back on Sunday for more USA Steeplechase news and insights!
Steve
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