A Classic Sportsman

Jonathan Sheppard to receive F. Ambrose Clark Award

Thursday, September 5th, 2013Jonathan Sheppard, a record-breaking horseman and a highly respected leader within the American Steeplechasing community, has been selected to receive the National Steeplechase Association’s prestigious F. Ambrose Clark Award. The award will be presented Nov. 22 at the National Steeplechase Museum in Camden, S.C.
“This is a great honor. There have been so many people who have put so much into steeplechasing, and I’m humbled to be among those receiving the F. Ambrose Clark Award,” Sheppard said.
Named for a legendary steeplechase horseman in the first half of the 20th century, the F. Ambrose Clark Award is presented periodically to those individuals who have been leaders in promoting, improving, and encouraging the growth and welfare of American Steeplechasing. The award was most recently awarded in 2007 to Austin A. Brown.
“Jonathan Sheppard exemplifies the finest virtues and values of American Steeplechasing,” said NSA President Guy J. Torsilieri. “As a horse trainer, he has no peer. He has trained young horsemen and sent them on to highly successful careers. He is the consummate sportsman and has contributed to the sport as an owner and breeder. And, he has provided consistent leadership for American Steeplechasing.”



(Reprinted from the National Steeplechase Association website.)

 I have seen Sheppard's horses race in countless steeplechase meets and even a few over the flat track. I was lucky enough to meet him briefly at Radnor several years ago. Not surprisingly, he was a warm and gracious man. It is nice to see that a man of his accomplishments is receiving the recognition he clearly deserves.