Jess Jackson, thoroughbred owner and winemaker, has died at the age of 81. According to a press release on the Kendall-Jackson Winery's website, Jess Jackson died today at his home in Geyserville, California from complications of cancer.
Jackson's Stonestreet Stable campaigned Horse of the Year Rachel Alexandra and two-time Horse of the Year Curlin. Jackson's campagin of Rachel Alexandra, whom he purchased after her impressive win in the 2009 Kentucky Oaks, allowed fans to witness the filly's greatness as she defeated her male counterparts in the Haskell Invitational and Woodward Stakes.
Jackson made a huge impact on the sport of racing by campaigning both Curlin and Rachel Alexandra into their four-year-old season when other champion thoroughbreds are retired to the breeding shed. Rachel Alexandra is currently in foal to Curlin.
Jess Jackson is survived by his wife, Barbara Banke; five children, Jennifer Hartford, Laura Giron, Katie Jackson, Julia Jackson and Christopher Jackson; and two grandchildren Hailey Hartford and MacLean Hartford.
Photo: Courtesy Kendall-Jackson
