Life Member of the Month – June – Allan Preddy
From humble beginnings in Rosettenville to wedding bells at Turffontein, our Life Member’s journey is a beautiful reminder of how horseracing connects people, creates memories, and fosters a lifetime of joy. The Racehorse Owners Association is thrilled to feature Allan Preddy as our Life Member of the Month.
Allan had no formal background in racing however, he was simply lucky enough to grow up next door to one of the greats, Michael Roberts. Raised in Rosettenville in the South of Johannesburg, and just a stone’s throw away from Turffontein Racecourse, Allan remembers the vibrant racing culture of his youth. But it was one unforgettable day in 1977 that would change everything. Fresh from a border camp and armed with his danger pay, he placed it all on Ever Fair in the Holiday Inns at staggering 20/1 odds and the horse won. He also fancied the owners’ daughter at the time, a young woman named Bev. The two were married six years later in 1983, hosting their wedding reception in the Pavilion Restaurant at Turffontein Racecourse, which was a grand affair in its time. That same year, he proudly received his Members Badge from the late Laurie Jaffee and purchased his first racehorse, Welcome Diamond. Today, 42 years later, Bev and Allan remain happily married. Their love story and shared journey with racing continues to unfold, with their horses still running at Turffontein where it all began.
Over the years, he has campaigned several memorable horses with a variety of respected trainers, including:
- Welcome Diamond and Sempiternal with Michael Roberts
- Victory Salute with Lance Wiid
- Hout Bay with Glen Kotzen
- Express Delivery, Gimmethegoahead, and Tirzan with Joe Soma
Currently, he continues to race under the guidance of Joe Soma, with horses like:
- Royal Mazarin – 5 wins
- Damova – 5 wins
- Brave Viking – 4 wins
- Dual Prophecy – 1 win
While horses have come and gone throughout their ownership journey, one principle has remained constant: “The horse comes first.” Every single horse, regardless of record, has gone to a good home, something Allan and Bev are deeply proud of.
Allan has been a Member of the ROA for 28 years. When asked what he’s enjoyed most, he highlights the people “helpful, courteous, and always working under pressure.” He adds that while much has been accomplished, there’s still more to be done for the good of the sport.
Outside of racing, he runs a successful communications consultancy, ER Associates, which he purchased 23 years ago after a senior leadership role at Siemens Enterprise. The company specializes in designing communication systems for top mining operations, particularly in mining shafts.
Family life is a major source of joy. Allan and Bev have two sons, Warwick and Dean, one based in London and the other here in South Africa. The whole family shares a love for horseracing and revels in the electric thrill of a winner crossing the line. When Allan is not at the races or running his company, he’s likely enjoying a braai with family and friends, cheering on the Springboks or Liverpool Football Club, both, as he puts it, “World Class WINNA’s.”
We thank Allan for his longstanding support and wish the entire Preddy family all the best for the rest of their journey.
