The Australian racing community has been deeply saddened by the loss of former jockey Ben Smith.

In tragic circumstances it is believed Smith may have taken his own life in his Essendon home just north of Melbourne on Monday afternoon.

Smith was just 26 years old and had a racing career plagued by weight issues which became so much of an issue that it forced his retirement at the end of 2009.

It was a great shame considering how talented he was, riding 102 winners despite all his issues.

During his career he was apprenticed to three trainers including Tony Noonan, Robert Smerdon and Mick Price.

“Smith’s death saddened and shocked all of the jockeys in Victoria,” VJA chief executive Des O’Keeffe said.

“He had a wide group of friends to which we offer our condolences and support.”

Horseracing.com.au also extends our thoughts and sympathies to all those who were associated with Smith throughout his life both on and off the race track.