Zenyatta’s trainer John Shirreffs dies aged 80

John Shirreffs, the revered American thoroughbred trainer best known for guiding Zenyatta to a Hall of Fame career and saddling Giacomo to an upset victory in the 2005 Kentucky Derby, died in his sleep on Thursday at his home in Arcadia, California. He was 80.

Hall of Fame jockey Mike Smith, who partnered with both champions, said the sport “lost a great man,” adding that he had also lost “a good friend.”

Celebrated for his patience and hands‑on horsemanship, Shirreffs trained some of racing’s most memorable performers. In addition to Giacomo’s Derby win, he captured the 2009 Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1) with Zenyatta and the Breeders’ Cup Ladies’ Classic (G1) in consecutive years with Zenyatta and Life Is Sweet.

Shirreffs trained Zenyatta and Giacomo for owners Jerry and Ann Moss, with Giacomo later co‑owned by Stronach Stables. His runners amassed 596 wins and more than $58 million in prize money.