Jeff Siegel, ‘World’s Greatest Handicapper,’ Dies at 74
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A towering figure in Southern California horse racing, Jeff Siegel, passed away at his home in Duarte on Saturday, October 26, 2024, following a battle with cancer. He was 74 years old. For over half a century, Siegel immersed himself in nearly every facet of the sport, leaving an indelible mark on the racing community as a handicapper, analyst, and insightful voice.
A Lifetime in the Saddle
Siegel’s career began in 1974 with a position in the publicity department at Hollywood Park. From there, he undertook a remarkable range of roles, demonstrating a versatility rarely seen in the industry. In his later years, he served as a host for XBTV, a platform owned by The Stronach Group specializing in horse workout videos, and as the morning-line maker for both Santa Anita and Del Mar, a role he continued until his health declined earlier in 2024.
The Handicapper’s Handicapper
However, it was siegel’s prowess as a handicapper that truly set him apart. Renowned Washington Post handicapper Andy Beyer,creator of the Beyer speed figures,famously dubbed Siegel the “World’s Greatest Handicapper” in his 1993 book,”Beyer on Racing.” Siegel’s insights were regularly featured in publications such as the Daily Racing Form, the Pasadena Star-news, the Orange County Register, and the San Diego Union-Tribune.
“Jeff has been my primary mentor in this game,” remarked a long-time public handicapper in Southern California. “He made performance ratings before there were published Beyer figures. He videotaped gate workouts in the mid-1980s. His overall knowledge of pace, pedigree and European form is unsurpassed. As a public handicapper, he’s the GOAT.”
Insights Respected by Industry Leaders
Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert consistently sought Siegel’s counsel and valued their discussions about horses. “I had total respect for his opinions and thoughts on horses,” Baffert stated. He recounted instances where Siegel accurately predicted the potential of future champions,including Justify and American Pharoah. “He just loved being part of the game and I respected his handicapping. If he picked your horse first, second or third, you knew you had a good chance of winning. He could see a horse run and he knew right away.” Baffert added, “I’m going to miss talking to him.His passion for the sport was unequaled. Nobody knew horses better than him. It’s a sad day and I will realy miss listening to him.”
Partnership and Innovation
Siegel also co-founded the prosperous partnership stables Clover Racing and Team Valor with his friend Barry Irwin. “He was the best handicapper I’ve ever met,” Irwin said. “What separated him from his peers is his ability to add horsemanship to his handicapping. He knew a lot of what went into training. He wasn’t just a nuts and bolts guy, he understood the animal.” Irwin fondly recalled visiting Siegel’s home and discovering stacks of Racing Forms piled high in the bathroom, a testament to his unwavering dedication.
A Broadcaster’s Touch
Even with a full plate, Siegel ventured into broadcasting, joining HRTV (now FanDuel TV) in 2004 as an analyst for nearly a decade. “Along with all the great work he did on camera, he was a true fan and dedicated student of the game,” said Becky Somerville, senior director of production at FanDuel TV. “He was passionate about it, which came through in everything he did, and that passion was infectious, lifting up everyone around him.”
Siegel is survived by his brother, Barry Siegel; sister, Michelle Weiss; nieces Caryn and Mara; nephew Robert; grand nephews Kai, Beckett and Roman; and grand niece Monroe. Funeral arrangements are pending. His legacy as a brilliant handicapper, dedicated analyst, and passionate advocate for horse racing will endure.
