Owner of the Month – June – Ethen Fegen

As South Africa celebrates Youth Month, the Racehorse Owners Association is proud to shine the spotlight on one of our youngest and most enthusiastic members, Ethen Fegen.

At just 18 years old and currently completing his matric year, Ethen represents the future of racehorse ownership. Despite his age, he has already established an impressive footprint in the sport, holding shares in approximately nine horses, including four promising youngsters, all through partnership ownership structures.

Ethen’s horses are trained by Corne Spies and Lucky Houdalakis on the Highveld, while in the Eastern Cape his horses are under the care of Dean Smith, Jacques Strydom, Kelly Mitchley, and Tara Laing.

Ethen’s family had long enjoyed racing from a punting perspective, but it was his uncle Brenden’s involvement in ownership a few years ago that sparked a deeper connection to the industry. That passion soon spread to Ethen’s father Dean, who became involved in ownership, and before long Ethen found himself captivated by the sport. “My dad owning a few horses is where the passion started for me,” he explains. “I’d go to the stables and spend time with the horses whenever I could.”

Ethen’s first step into ownership came when he purchased shares in Hoc Est Vita, a Canford Cliffs filly from the 2025 Cape Summer Sale. After being approached about the filly and impressed by her quality and presence, he eagerly seized the opportunity to become involved. This filly won her maiden on 27 June 2026 at Turffontein Racecourse.

When asked what the industry can do to attract and retain younger owners, Ethen believes syndication has played a crucial role thus far and can grow exponentially. “Syndicates are making it fun, affordable and enjoyable,” he says. “I also think a focus on youth race days would have a major impact when it comes to getting people involved in ownership.”

One of Ethen’s most memorable racing experiences came shortly after becoming involved in the ownership of Endeared. “I got involved a week before she ran. I had low expectations, but she won her maiden. The excitement and adrenaline I felt, along with having my brother and uncle there to support me, made it my favourite memory in racing so far.”

While winning races is always special, it is the horses, and the people involved in the sport that have left the biggest impression on him. He said: “The thing I enjoy most about racing is the animals themselves and the connections you get to make. I’ve met some of the friendliest people through racing and some of the sweetest horses.”

Looking ahead, Ethen’s aspirations are as exciting as they are ambitious. Like many owners, he dreams of success on the biggest stages and hopes one day to celebrate victories in two of South Africa’s most prestigious races, the SA Classic and the Summer Cup.

Outside of racing, Ethen enjoys playing rugby and spending time with family and friends. However, racing remains a major part of his life and a passion that continues to grow.

As we close off Youth Month, Ethen’s story serves as a reminder that the future of racing depends on inspiring young people to become involved. His passion, enthusiasm, and commitment to the sport demonstrate that the next generation of owners is already making its mark.

The Racehorse Owners Association congratulates Ethen on being our June Owner of the Month and we wish him every success as he continues his journey in racehorse ownership.