Very sad. I, too, am sorry he didn't live to see the Rachel/Curlin foal. Although I knew his age and illness, he never looked or acted 81 or sick. I am glad he had a good life and a good death. His death will be difficult for his survivors. RIP, Mr. Jackson.

Joy

Saw that too - what a shock! I didn't even know he was sick...

That is sad news.  Wish he could have lived to see Rachel's foal.

Very sad, as he was committed to breeding excellence and soundness for the long haul. His legacy will live on in the foals to come. Thanks Mr. Jackson for all you did for racing.

Wow that is very sad news.  I'd hoped he'd be able to see Rachel and Curlin's foal.

Many prayers to his family, may he rest in peace.

I too, admired the 'grumpy old bugger'.  He was a larger than life character in many ways who, as Derby said so well, dared to dream and did his darndest to make it happen.

I think the foal should be named Jess's Dream or Jess's Legacy as a final tribute to him. He really improved the sport during his time in it. Rachel raced against the boys and as a four year old. Most owners wouldn't have done that. In the hands of many owners, Curlin would have gone to the breeding shed after his three year old season like Hard Spun and Street Sense and Lookin at Lucky. What a loss it would have been for the sport. Thank you Mr. Jackson. Godspeed in the next phase of your journey.

I like your name ideas.  That would be a great tribute.

OH dang it!!   I so was hoping he would make it to see the foal born he was looking forward to.    

I met Mr Jackson back when my Uncle was racing and he was such a nice, nice guy who loved what he was doing and the people behind the scenes and esp his horses.  

Rest in Peace Jess, and say HI to my uncle for me also, I am sure you both have a lot of catching up to do!!

Will see if I can find the photo that was taken of me (youngin, my uncle and Mr Jackson) right after I got to met him.    Have to look through a lot of photos my uncle had but if I find it will get it scanned and show you Mr Jackson (and me) in his  younger years :)