Florida-based Trainer Ziadie Dies at 84

Multiple graded stakes-winning trainer Ralph Ziadie of Miramar, Fla., died at age 84. A native of Kingston, Jamaica, he passed away peacefully April 9, surrounded by his family. Recognized for a successful career training horses in both Jamaica and Florida, Ziadie was also a Jamaica National goalkeeper and a fourth-degree member of the Knights of Columbus.

Based out of Florida, he was best known for training three-time grade 1 winner of $2.5 million Sir Bear, who scored at the highest level in the 1998 Cigar Mile Handicap, the 1999 Metropolitan Handicap (also known as the Met Mile), and the 2001 Gulfstream Park Handicap. The gelding by Sir Leon made 71 starts for Ziadie from 1996-2003, compiling a record of 19-12-14.

Ziadie's other top runners include 2003 Fountain of Youth Stakes (G1) winner Trust N Luck and 2003 Hopeful Stakes (G1) victor Silver Wagon.

According to Equibase, Ziadie started 9,931 horses over a career spanning from 1981 to 2018, earning more than $31 million and with a record of 1,544-1,420-1,302. His best year came in 2000, when his horses bankrolled $2,888,532 with a 20% win rate. He saddled 448 horses that year, with a record of 88-74-71.

Ziadie is survived by his wife, Sonia "Terry" Ziadie, children Gordon, Kirk, and Katherine, and eight grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at Saint John XXIII R.C. Church in Miramar April 22 at 9:30 a.m. ET.