Horse Racing Official Jack Dies

Robert Jack, the California Horse Racing Board’s equine medical director, is dead at 49.

Jack was found unconscious in his office at the California Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at UC Davis on Tuesday morning.

Initial efforts to revive him were unsuccessful and he was pronounced dead at Davis Sutter Hospital. Results of an autopsy will not be available for several days.

Jack was appointed to his position with the CHRB on Nov. 20, 1992, through an agreement with the University of California, which contracted for his services.

He worked with vets and trainers while advising the CHRB on matters pertaining to drug testing, medication, veterinary practices, track safety and animal welfare.

Previously, he had a private practice for more than 20 years at a track in British Columbia and he had served as president of the World Equine Assn. and the American Assn. of Equine Practitioners.

Services are pending and probably will be held in Canada.