Jonathan Sheppard
Bio: Birthdate: Dec. 2, 1940. Home: West Grove, Pa. Champion: 1970, 1972, 1974-1979, 1981-1985, 1987-1990, 1992-1995, 1999, 2006. Leading Earner: 1973-1990, 1992-1994, 1996, 1999, 2007. Eclipse Award Winners: Mixed Up (2009), Highland Bud (1989), Jimmy Lorenzo (1988), Flatterer (1985, 1985, 1984, 1983), Martie’s Anger (1979), Cafe Prince (1978, 1977), Athenian Idol (1973). Racing Hall of Fame trainer had another spectacular Saratoga meet, with four victories over fences, including Divine Fortune in the A. P. Smithwick Memorial (Gr. 2) and Italian Wedding in the Michael G. Walsh Novice Stakes. Reached a personal milestone in September 2010 when he saddled his 1,000th winner over fences under National Steeplechase Association rules, Arcadius in the $100,000 Helen Haskell Sampson (Gr. 1). Was 2010 champion trainer by wins (26 from 96 starts) and earnings ($809,930). NSA’s all-time leader won his 11th steeplechase Eclipse Award in 2009 with Bill Pape’s Mixed Up. Also won his second flat Eclipse Award with Informed Decision (female sprinter), after Forever Together (turf female) in 2008. Other six steeplechase champions are Athenian Idol, Cafe Prince, Martie’s Anger, Flatterer, Jimmy Lorenzo and Highland Bud. Both Cafe Prince and Flatterer are in the Hall of Fame. Married to former jockey Cathy Montgomery Sheppard. Won first race with Haffaday in 1966.
