The European Breeders Fund has paid tribute to its former chief executive Sam Sheppard, who has died Feb. 13 at the age of 84.
Sheppard spent a considerable amount of his life working in the industry, having also been an amateur rider. He joined the Thoroughbred Breeders' Association in 1978 before being involved, along with Bob McCreery and Peter Willett, in setting up the EBF. He was awarded Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 2014 for services to the horse breeding industry and the rural economy.
In a statement, the organization said: "The EBF would like to pay tribute to Sam Sheppard CBE, who died on Friday. Sam was instrumental in setting up the EBF in 1983 while also leading the TBA. His contribution of over 40 years' service to the horse racing and bloodstock industry is truly appreciated, and we send our condolences to (his wife) Jane and all his family."
The TBA also released a statement, which said: "We are saddened to learn of the passing of Sam Sheppard. A lifelong champion of the British breeding industry, Sam joined the TBA as secretary in 1978 before taking up the role as chief executive of the EBF in 1983, a role he undertook for 30 years, helping to shape its initial development and then subsequent ongoing success.
"A recipient of the TBA's Andrew Devonshire Award (1983), he will be remembered for his integrity and tireless commitment to supporting the health of the British breeding industry. Our thoughts are with Jane, their two sons, and his friends at this time."
