Life Member of the Month – March – Reginald John Mayhew

This month, we proudly present Reginald John Mayhew as our Life Member, a true racing stalwart whose roots in the sport span four generations. His lifelong connection to horseracing reflects not only a deep passion, but a legacy that continues to thrive within his family today.

Born and bred in Johannesburg, Reginald was introduced to racing from an early age. His father was a trainer in the early 1940s, laying the foundation for what would become a lifelong journey in the industry. Reginald himself went on to establish a small stud farm in Honeydew, where he bred his own horses and further cemented his involvement in the sport.

His hands-on passion extended into amateur racing, competing at tracks across Kimberley, Rustenburg, Ermelo, and Swaziland. In those days, Kimberley allowed trainers to use amateur jockeys, which made Reginald’s experience even more special, as his son Craig rode as his jockey from just 10 years old.

Over the years, Reginald has owned a number of memorable horses, including Hope and Dreams, Direct Hit (Prince Of War x Green Oasis), Kelentian, Cherry Flower, Duzzit Rise, Arjay, Polar Secret, and She’s a Dragon. One of his most cherished racing memories came in 2016 when She’s a Dragon finished second in the second leg of the Triple Tiara. More recently, his pride continued through the next generation, with his grandson Trent winning that very same race this year aboard Hazy Dazy for the Spies yard.

Reginald has worked with several trainers over the years, including John Jacobs, Hennie van Wyk, and James Maree. Today, his horses are in the capable hands of his son, Craig Mayhew, continuing the strong family tradition in racing.

A Life Member of the ROA for 29 years, Reginald reflects fondly on his time with the Association, simply noting that “racing with the ROA is always a treat.” His love for the sport is also tied to cherished memories of a bygone era, when grandstands were filled with enthusiastic racegoers, bookmakers lined the course, and night racing, especially at Newmarket, added a unique vibrancy to the racing calendar.

Outside of racing, Reginald enjoys golf. After a successful 45-year career in the steel industry, where he was self-employed, he is now happily retired.

Family remains at the heart of everything for Reginald. The Mayhew name continues to feature prominently in racing, with his son Craig as a trainer, his granddaughter Kelsey Mayhew-Munger serving as an assistant trainer alongside her husband, jockey Ryan Munger, and his grandson Trent, currently in his final year as an apprentice jockey.

We thank Reginald for his longstanding support and wish the entire Mayhew Family a wonderful remainder of the season!