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Breeder/owner Steinbrenner dead at 80 - Journal

Last updated: 7/13/10 10:30 PM

George Steinbrenner leading

Dream Supreme to the winner's circle following her victory in

the 2001 Princess Rooney

 (Jean Raftery Phitos/Calder)

New York Yankees owner George M. Steinbrenner III, a prominent

Thoroughbred breeder/owner, died Tuesday morning in Tampa. He was 80.

"It is with profound sadness that the family of George M.

Steinbrenner III announces his passing," the family said in a statement

Tuesday. "He was an incredible and charitable man. First and foremost he

was devoted to his entire family -- his beloved wife, Joan; his sisters,

Susan Norpell and Judy Kamm, his children, Hank, Jennifer, Jessica and

Hal; and all of his grandchildren.

"He was a visionary and a giant in the world of sports. He took a

great but struggling franchise and turned it into a champion again."

Steinbrenner, who owned Kinsman Farm in Ocala, was instrumental in

passage of key legislation for the horse business in Florida.

Inter-track wagering, workers' compensation reform, the family bill and

Sunday racing all were passed with his leadership and during his

involvement with the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders' and Owners'

Association. He served as president of the Association, as well as a

board member.

"He was one of the most influential people I've ever met and had the pleasure of

knowing for the past 22 years," said Richard Hancock, executive vice president

of the FTBOA. "I know it is a tough time for the family right now. We want them

to know how much we share their loss. He left a great legacy in Florida's

Thoroughbred industry and was responsible for many of the association's

accomplishments."

A native of Ohio, Steinbrenner bred and owned many top horses under the Kinsman

Farm banner. Notables include Grade 1 winners Bellamy Road, Buy the Firm, Dream

Supreme, Eternal Prince, Majestic Warrior, Spinning Round, Steve's Friend and

Sweet Symphony as well as graded winners Acceptable, Concerto, Diligence and

Ebony Breeze. He had six starters in the Kentucky Derby (G1).

"The Thoroughbred racing world joins the rest of the sporting community in

mourning the death of George Steinbrenner," said Alex Waldrop, president and CEO

of the National Thoroughbred Racing Association. "He was a devoted owner and

breeder and philanthropist for more than 40 years, and his Kinsman Farm near

Ocala, Florida, produced numerous stakes winners. His many contributions to our

sport are greatly appreciated, and he will be sorely missed."

While his involvement in the Thoroughbred industry was among his passions,

Steinbrenner is

best known as the owner of the

Yankees. During his ownership from 1973 to his death, the longest in

club history, the Yankees earned 11 pennants and seven World Series titles.

Steinbrenner was actively involved in the United States Olympic Committee, was a

member of the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame Board of

Trustees, was on the NCAA Foundation Board of Directors and was a board member

of the National Baseball Hall of Fame.

The Steinbrenner family said that funeral arrangements will be private, however,

details about an additional public service will be announced at a later date.

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