One of the most iconic figures in New Zealand horse racing, Sir Patrick Hogan, has died.
A champion breeder, Sir Patrick was responsible for bringing the likes of champion horses Sir Tristram and Zabeel to New Zealand, and is being remembered as a trailblazer in the industry.
Sir Patrick Hogan was the king of the ring at Karaka.
"You walk in here to win a race," Sir Patrick said. "For me, that's how I treat every horse of mine that comes into the ring."
For decades, he was the owner of the world-renowned and leading vendor for the Yearling Sales, Cambridge Stud. It was there he bred champions.
Many sired by Sir Tristram.
"Sir Tristram will forever be regarded as the greatest stallion to stand in New Zealand," NZ Bloodstock managing director Andrew Seabrook told Newshub.
"[He was a] remarkable stallion, and we'll never see another like him. And then he left his son Zabeel, who also stood at Cambridge Stud.
"He's gone on to be an absolute champion sire, and he's left Savabeel, whose now our best sire."
Sir Patrick paired prioritising the presentation of horse and leader with entertaining potential buyers - even taking them on fishing trips to Taupo.
"Certain yearlings probably bought 20, 30 percent more than they would have if I hadn't done it," said Sir Patrick.
In late 2022, Sir Patrick gave what would be his final interview, following the passing of Queen Elizabeth.
He met her in 1990 when she went to Cambridge Stud for a personal tour.
"Afterwards, I thought, I should have told the caterer 'for god's sake, don't wash the cutlery, I want the lipstick on the gin and tonic'."
And while he attracted the attention of royalty, his impact will be felt for generations in the racing industry both financially and professionally.
"Not only was he New Zealand's most famous breeder, he was Australia's most famous breeder," added Seabrook.
Sir Patrick Hogan was 83.
