Howard Zucker | Photo Benoit
Veteran trainer Howard Zucker, a much-respected Southern California horseman, died Thursday at USC Keck Hospital in Los Angeles at the age of 74.
Based in New York before moving to Southern California in 1980, Zucker trained briefly for NBA Lakers owner Jerry Buss. Born on May 20, 1948, Zucker assured his final winner on July 24, when his 3-year-old Gracelund Gray (Goldencents) won at Del Mar.
As well as being a devoted fan of the Yankees, Zucker is also a staunch supporter of the horse, as evidenced by his numerous leadership roles with the California Retirement Management Account (CARMA). Zucker joined CARMA’s board of directors in May 2009 and held a variety of leadership positions, including the position of CARMA President from 2016-2019.
Lucinda Lovitt, CEO of CARMA, “I am deeply saddened by the news of Howard’s passing yesterday. “He is a tireless champion for horses and so confident in CARMA’s mission, I cannot imagine our board without him. I know I speak to the entire CARMA Board of Directors when I say that he will be very, very missed.”
Zucker’s top horse was Crafty CT (Crafty Pros Inspector), who won the 2001 GII San Rafael S. with Eddie Delahoussaye on board and then finished second behind Point Given in the GI Santa Anita Derby. Zucker has had 2,223 career starts as a coach and 246 wins. He is survived by his wife Lorraine. Memorial services are yet to be determined at this time.
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This story was posted in Top News and tagged CARMA, Crafty CT, Del Mar, GI Santa Anita Derby, GII San Rafael S., Gold Coins, Gracelund Grey, Howard Zucker, Points given.
