ROA Heritage Family Fun and Braai Day

The Racehorse Owners Association Hosts Heritage Day Family Fun & Braai at Randjesfontein

On Heritage Day, 24 September 2025, the Racehorse Owners Association brought together members, owners, families, and the broader racing community for a memorable Family Fun and Braai Day at the Randjesfontein Training Centre. The relaxed, community-building initiative was designed to celebrate South Africa’s heritage while showcasing the vibrant and family-friendly side of horseracing.

The day drew a fantastic turnout of over 200 attendees, starting with an exclusive stable tour for new visitors. Owners and social members had the opportunity to engage directly with trainers, ask questions, and learn more about the incredible journey of a racehorse. A special word of thanks goes to Sean Tarry and Ashleigh Leedo as well as Corne, Tobie and Xander Spies, who generously opened their stables and shared their knowledge with guests.

The atmosphere was one of warmth and camaraderie as families enjoyed a complimentary braai-style lunch provided by the ROA, complete with a spread of meats, fresh salads, and sides. An ice-cream van kept the refreshments flowing, while live entertainment added to the festive spirit.

Adding to the excitement, 4Racing partnered in the event with an engaging “Win and Spin” activation wheel, promoting the upcoming Betway Summer Cup, Joburg’s flagship raceday. Lucky winners walked away with General Access and Summer Garden tickets, branded mugs, t-shirts, caps, and dining vouchers to The Acreage restaurant.

For younger guests, a jumping castle ensured endless fun, making it a true family day out. Feedback from owners has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the initiative for creating a relaxed environment that encourages connection both within the racing community and with newcomers to the sport.

Trainer, Luchelle Kruger said: “Dirk and I had a lovely time, the food was excellent, and entertainment was great and the prizes, even better”

Owner, Trevor Teegler mentioned: “Wow, what a wonderful initiative and day spent with fellow owners and interested members of the public who attended this event. Well organised with so much happening, from stalls to prize winnings and the live music was just an awesome day out. Keep up the excellent work and initiatives, it seems to get better and better each time including bigger participation numbers. We will definitely be encouraging more friends and family to join such events and festivities going forward”

Social Members, Linda and Lester Dickson added: “We are thankful for the loveliest day and delicious meal. It was amazing to meet the Spies family, 3 generations, we are blessed. Thank you to all the ROA staff who made our day so memorable”.

The Racing Today crew joined in the festivities, and we were thrilled to have them capture the moments throughout the day. Natalie Turner, CEO of the ROA and Daniel Tarry from Sean Tarry Racing were featured in , the Heritage Day episode , which can be viewed here: https://www.racingtoday.co.za/en/search/230900/racing-today-2025-september-2025-racing-today-2025-september2025-ep-19-daniel-tarry-and-natalie-turner

The ROA extends its heartfelt thanks to 4Racing, Racing Today and The Acreage for their support in making the day a success, and to everyone who joined us in celebrating our heritage with good food, laughter, and shared passion for horseracing.

We look forward to hosting you again in the future.