Gary Biszantz Passes Away After Fall

[Wandering Eyes]

Gary Biszantz, who bought his first Thoroughbred for $400 at age 21 in 1956 and was still active in the sport nearly 70 years later, passed away Saturday afternoon after an accidental fall, according to Mike Owens, long-time manager of his Cobra Farm. Owens added that Biszantz's wife, Betty, and six daughters were all with him at the time.

Biszantz established Cobra Farm in the 90s, selling it last year after enjoying 480 winners, 32 in stakes and four at Grade I level, and twice went down the Derby trail, first with Cobra King and later with Old Trieste. Among his leadership roles in the sport were four terms as chairman of the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association (TOBA). He was also a member of The Jockey Club and was involved in the NTRA Racing Integrity and Drug Testing Task Force. In addition, Biszantz founded Tranquility Farm (the Harry A. Biszantz Memorial Center) in California, a facility dedicated to aftercare.

Alongside his Thoroughbred ventures, Biszantz was instrumental in Cobra Golf, which manufactures high-end golf equipment. In 1996, Biszantz sold Cobra Golf to American Brands for $756 million.

Services are pending. For more on Biszantz's colorful life, click to read a profile by Chris McGrath published late last year.

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