From the desk – April
Dear Member
Welcome to the April edition of ROA Today.
As we draw breath following a thrilling few weeks in South African racing, it is with immense pride and gratitude that we reflect on what has been a truly remarkable period for the sport and its passionate stakeholders. The recent Championships delivered the kind of racing that reminds us all why we fell in love with this game. The calibre of horses, the competitive spirit, and the commitment of owners, trainers, and jockeys alike culminated in a showcase of excellence. These performances laid down a marker as we now shift our gaze toward the KZN Champions Season, where the country’s best will again lock horns on KwaZulu-Natal’s tracks, in what promises to be another captivating campaign.
The BSA National Yearling Sales once again highlighted the strength of South African breeding and the deep commitment of owners and buyers who continue to invest in the future of our sport. The quality of bloodstock on offer and the encouraging response from the market were testament to the resilience and ambition that drive this industry forward.
Looking ahead, we eagerly anticipate the Highveld Feature Season Awards, a celebration not just of individual achievement but of the collective passion that sustains racing in the region.
The champions of the Highveld, both human and equine, will be celebrated at the Highveld Feature Season Awards on Saturday 17th May and a full review of these awards will be showcased in the May edition of ROA Today.
In parallel to these racing milestones, I’m pleased to share that the ROA, in collaboration with 4Racing, is currently workshopping an enhanced value proposition for our members. This initiative aims to strengthen the owner experience, offering greater recognition, access, and support to those who are the lifeblood of our sport. We are engaging with stakeholders to ensure that the new benefits package is meaningful, inclusive, and tailored to the evolving needs of our diverse ownership base.
I am also excited to inform you about the recent reopening of the restaurant at Randjesfontein Training Centre. This establishment offers a unique opportunity to enjoy early morning track work while savouring a delicious meal. It’s an ideal setting to witness our beloved horses in action and participate in stable visits, providing an immersive experience for all attendees. The new venue is called The Acreage and is open Tuesday to Sunday and public holidays, 7am to 3pm. In the coming weeks, we will be announcing our next event at the venue, designed to foster engagement among owners, trainers, and jockeys. These gatherings serve as a platform to connect, share insights, and celebrate our shared passion for horseracing. We look forward to your participation and continued support.
I am thrilled to announce that our ROA Member of the Month, whose dedication and passion for the sport continues to inspire us all, is Arun Chadha. Additionally, we honour Alan Greeff as our Life Member of the Month, celebrating a longstanding commitment to the racing community. Their contributions are invaluable, and we extend our heartfelt gratitude for their unwavering support.
As always, I thank our members for their continued support and passion. The ROA remains committed to advocating for owners and contributing to a thriving, sustainable racing industry in South Africa.
