Youth Month Feature – Brhys Spong
As we celebrate Youth Month, we shine the spotlight on one of the Racehorse Owners Association’s youngest and most enthusiastic members, Brhys Spong. At just 19 years old, Brhys is already making meaningful strides in the horseracing industry, combining passion with education to forge a path toward a future in racing.
Currently a student at the prestigious Summerhill School of Equine Management Excellence, Brhys has been on the course for six months and is soaking up every opportunity. The journey to Summerhill began when his stepmother spotted a flyer at the 2024 KZN Yearling Sale, and the rest, as they say, is history. “It’s a lot of hard work, something I wasn’t used to at all,” Brhys admits with a laugh, “but I enjoy working with my housemates and the staff on the farm.” From breeding to stable management, Brhys is developing a well-rounded understanding of the industry. His ultimate dream is to become a trainer, taking inspiration from greats like Mike de Kock and Justin Snaith.
Racing runs deep in the Spong family. Long before Brhys was born, both of his grandfathers were avid fans, punters, and owners. His childhood memories are filled with watching races on the couch after school with his grandfather, igniting a love for the sport early on. In 2020, his parents, Bryan and Taryn, officially joined the industry as owners, and have celebrated many successes thus far.
Earlier this year, Brhys was granted his own racing colours and currently has three horses in training and two broodmares under his name. His first purchase, Fizzly Bubbly, was secured at the 2023 Cape Racing Winter Mixed Sale. Although now under new ownership, the experience marked an exciting milestone for the young owner.
Outside of the industry, Brhys enjoys playing golf and watching various sports. When asked about how the industry could better appeal to young owners like himself, he shared some insightful suggestions. “I think that if 4Racing provided more fun race days and themes that stayed up with the latest trends, it would attract more interest in owning racehorses. I think syndicates are the way forward in promoting racing because it is more cost-effective. You can buy fewer shares and still enjoy the sport on an affordable scale.”
Among his favourite memories so far is the 2024 Betway Summer Cup Day, where his family and close friends cheered on Mount Pilatus, owned by his parents, as it stormed to victory in the Grade 3 New Turf Carriers Merchants race. It was a moment that cemented his love for the sport and deepened his commitment to his racing journey.
Brhys Spong represents the future of horseracing in South Africa—young, driven, and full of potential. As the industry continues to evolve, it’s passionate and enthusiastic individuals like Brhys who will ensure that the legacy of racing not only lives on but thrives.
