John C. Harris, a renowned thoroughbred breeder known for raising champions like the 2014 Kentucky Derby winner California Chrome and the 2000 Horse of the Year Tiznow, has passed away at the age of 81. Harris Farm announced his death on Wednesday but did not disclose the cause or location.
Although Harris did not breed California Chrome or Tiznow, both horses were raised during their early years at his Harris Farms located in California’s San Joaquin Valley near Fresno. Both equine stars have been inducted into the Sports Hall of Fame.
California Chrome made history as the first California-bred horse to win the Kentucky Derby since 1962 and also claimed victory at the Preakness Stakes, although its Triple Crown hopes ended at the Belmont Stakes. Harris Farms also housed several notable California sires, including Heat, Sea Towin, Lucky Pulpit, Eclipse Award winner Preakness, and Smiling Tiger.
Born on July 14, 1943, on his family’s farm, Harris earned an animal production degree from the University of California, Davis in 1965 and served two years in the U.S. Army. He took over as sole owner and CEO of Harris Farms in 1981, guiding the enterprise through multiple divisions including Harris Ranch Inn & Restaurant, Harris Ranch Beef Company, Harris Feeding Company, Harris Farms Thoroughbred Division, and Harris Fresh.
Known for his philanthropy, Harris supported his alma mater Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and contributed to Fresno state programs, including donating horses to the Pleasant Valley State Prison program in Coalinga. The Del Mar Thoroughbred Club honored him, praising his vision, courage, and dedication to horses.
Harris served as chairman of the California State Horse Racing Commission for three years, was a longtime board member and former president of the California Association of Thoroughbred Breeders, an executive of the California Thoroughbred Owners, and a member of the California Racing Hall of Fame.
Tom Rooney, president and CEO of the National Thoroughbred Racing Association, highlighted Harris’s influence extending from California to Kentucky and Washington, D.C., recognizing his role in shaping federal support for the industry. Harris contributed more than five decades of involvement in horse breeding and racing.
He famously gave trainer Carla Gaines her first horse in 1989, who went on to train many stakes winners for Harris Farms. Santa Anita Park expressed deep gratitude for his significance to California’s thoroughbred industry, noting that the Harris Farm colors are a familiar and respected presence at the winner’s circle.
Harris is survived by his wife, Cookie.
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Fan Take: John C. Harris’s passing marks the loss of a pivotal figure whose influence spanned over 50 years, shaping California’s thoroughbred breeding and racing landscape. His dedication not only produced champions but also strengthened industry institutions, ensuring a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire and elevate the sport for years to come.
