John Shirreffs, the gentle giant known for training Zenyatta—arguably the greatest filly in history—passed away Thursday in Southern California at the age of 80. The cause of his death has not yet been disclosed.
A leading figure in Southern California horse racing, Shirreffs achieved 596 wins out of 3,589 starts, amassing $58.5 million in earnings throughout his career. His quiet presence was a staple at local racetracks, often seen pony-driving his horses to morning workouts. When his horses triumphed, he typically avoided the spotlight, leaving celebrations to his wife, Dottie Ingold.
Shirreffs first caught national attention in 2005 by training Giacomo, who won the Kentucky Derby at astounding 50-1 odds. Notably, Giacomo’s ownership included legendary record producer Jerry Moss and Herb Alpert of A&M Records. Shirreffs remained Moss’s primary trainer until Moss’s passing in 2023.
Following Giacomo’s success, Shirreffs trained Zenyatta, whose remarkable personality and talent captivated Southern California fans. Zenyatta achieved 19 consecutive wins, including a breathtaking come-from-behind victory in the 2009 Breeders’ Cup Classic at Santa Anita, hailed by race caller Trevor Denman as “incredible.”
A Marine veteran, Shirreffs found his way into horse racing somewhat by chance. After returning from Vietnam without a clear path, he moved westward upon a friend’s suggestion. Despite knowing little about horses, his pursuit led him to work initially without pay, gaining experience that eventually launched his training career.
He once recalled riding a horse across a field and getting stuck in a mudbox, an event that unexpectedly led to a job offer from Henry Freitas of Lomarica Ranch in Central California. Shirreffs spent 11 years there before an opportunity to take a horse to a show set his career in motion. Reflecting on his journey, he admitted that he never planned to be a trainer, but each opportunity pushed him forward.
When asked whether Vietnam or training horses was more difficult, Shirreffs chose not to compare the two.
In response to his passing, Santa Anita released a statement honoring Shirreffs: “Every horse racing here must first pass the statue of John’s greatest trainee, the wonderful mare Zenyatta. John’s achievements were many and prestigious, with the 2009 Breeders’ Cup Classic win standing out as a masterpiece. It is no surprise he was a highlight during Santa Anita Park’s 90th anniversary celebration. Our heartfelt condolences go to Dottie and the entire family, including the horsemen and women who worked alongside him. May his memory be a blessing.”
Funeral arrangements have not been announced.
Fan Take: John Shirreffs’ legacy is more than just his wins; it’s about the quiet dedication and passion he brought to horse racing, exemplified through legends like Zenyatta. His passing serves as a poignant reminder of the deep human stories behind the sport and sets a high standard for trainers who follow in his footsteps.
