Vale, Ryan Smith

Victorian breeding farm Kulani Park are mourning the loss of partner and family member Ryan Smith.

Smith, brother of Kulani proprietor Rhys Smith, was a pivotal member of the successful breeding and pinhooking operation that has consigned horses such as Champion sire Zoustar, Golden Slipper placegetter Coleman and dual Stradbroke Handicap winner Black Piranha.

Ryan Smith enjoyed great success as part owner of 2011 Group 1 Metropolitan Handicap winner The Verminator, a $17,000 weanling purchase that also contested that years VRC Melbourne Cup.

“Ryan was the best and an absolute legend. Never to be forgotten he will always be loved,” Rhys Smith said.