Veteran California breeder John C. Harris dies at age 81

Veteran California Thoroughbred breeder John C. Harris, whose farm produced prominent horses such as Hall of Famer Tiznow, died at age 81, his family announced Thursday.

As a breeder, Harris Farms produced numerous Eclipse Award winners, California champions and divisional leaders, including Breeders’ Cup winners Tiznow and Thor’s Echo as well as Soviet Problem, who placed by a nose in the Breeders' Cup Sprint.

Harris held positions with the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association, the California Horse Racing Board, and the Thoroughbred Owners of California, and was a member of The Jockey Club of America since 1988, as Thoroughbred Daily News reported.

Harris was born on July 14, 1943, and was a lifelong resident of Fresno County. He earned a degree from the University of California Davis and served in the U.S. Army.

Harris Farms has 450 acres at its main ranch in Coalinga and 140 acres in Sanger, where the operation specializes in young developing horses and long-term lay-ups.

Harris is survived by his wife Cookie Harris, whom he married in June, extended family and "countless friends and colleagues whose lives were enriched by his strength of character and enduring compassion," the family posted on the Harris Farms website.

A private burial ceremony will be held. A public celebration of life is being scheduled and will be announced soon.

In lieu of flowers, the family requested that donations be made to the Jack A. Harris Memorial Scholarship Fund, continuing John’s commitment to supporting the next generation of agricultural leaders.