Life Member of the Month – August – Chris Haynes

The Racehorse Owners Association is proud to present one of our newly inducted Life Members, Chris Haynes, as our Life Member of the Month in the August edition of ROA Today!

Chris’s introduction to the sport came through his family, with both his grandfather and mother sharing a keen interest and ownership in horses. Growing up and working in KwaZulu-Natal, Chris carried this early spark into a lifelong journey in the industry.

As an owner, Chris celebrated six Grade 1 victories, including wins with Fair Maiden who won the Empress Club Stakes in 2006, Kildonan in the Golden Horse Sprint in 2007, Thundering Star being triumphant in the Cannon Gold Cup in 2007, and Noah From Goa who was victorious in the Grand Parade Cape Guineas in 2015. These horses brought him not only Grade 1 successes but also lasting memories in racing. He currently holds shares in Greaterix and Immediate Edge. Throughout his career he has always had horses trained by Alistair Gordon and Mike De Kock.

Chris has made a significant contribution to the industry from a business perspective. He established the Equine Group 30 years ago, which has continued to serve racing through its insurance services as well as trainer and owner administration under the Orange banner.

When reflecting on the future of horseracing, Chris remains optimistic, noting the industry’s current upward trajectory. However, he stresses the importance of sustainable expenditure control in order to secure its long-term growth. He extends his gratitude to Mary Slack, Owen Heffer, and Greg Bortz for their outstanding efforts in advancing the sport.
Outside of racing, Chris treasures time spent with family, friends, and golf, ensuring balance between his professional and personal life.

We thank Chris for his longstanding support and wish him a wonderful season ahead!