If you have ever been a spectator at a Steeplechase race over the last 30 years, it is very likely you have seen at least one horse in one of the races that was trained by Jonathan Sheppard. Mr. Sheppard has the distinction of having won over 1000 Steeplechase races as Trainer and over 2400 Flat races.
Sheppard came to the States in the early 60's. His Father was a racing Official in Sheppard's native England. In the interest of fairness, British rules prohibit Family members of Racing Officials to train for outside Clients.So across the Pond he came. He trained his first winner in 1966 at My Lady's Manor in Maryland and since then has trained 4 Breeder's Cup Grand National Steeplechase winners. Sheppard also holds the record for the most ever Colonial Cup Winners at 11
Sheppard has also had great success at flat track racing. He teamed up with Main Line Legend George Strawbridge. They saw their Horse win the Breeder's Cup Filly/Mare Turf in 2008.
This Hall of Fame trainer is a quiet and charming gentleman. I had the pleasure of meeting him briefly at Radnor. He just looks like a man who can train horses and deserves to outside doing so. I envy this man and his abilities and his unique professional skill. In another life I would love to be a Steeplechase trainer.
As for all you Men's fashion wonks out there in the Blog-world...this guys sets the standard for tasteful country and sporting attire.
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