Owner of the Month – July – Kayleigh Oakes
Young, passionate and deeply immersed in the equestrian world, Kayleigh Oakes is a wonderful example of the next generation of racehorse owners helping to shape the future of South African racing. the Racehorse Owners Association is thrilled to feature Kayliegh in our July edition of ROA Today.
Balancing her love for showjumping with an ever-growing passion for racing, Kayleigh has embraced ownership with enthusiasm, becoming an integral part of the 1 More We Stay Syndicate alongside her family and closest friends.
The syndicate currently races two horses and is built on more than just shared ownership, it is founded on friendship, family and a genuine love for the sport. Their memorable name was inspired by Kayleigh’s father, Mark Oakes, and has become something of a family motto. “The 1 More We Stay Syndicate is a term my Dad came up with, and it’s now frequently used among all of us. It basically means win, lose or draw, we’ll be staying for one more!” Kayleigh laughs. It is this philosophy that perfectly captures what racing is all about, enjoying the experience, celebrating the highs, supporting one another through the lows, and always looking forward to the next race.
Although horses have always been a significant part of Kayleigh’s life through showjumping, her introduction to the racing industry came through long-time friend Sarah Jane Clarke, whom she met through the showjumping community. However, it was after meeting her fiancé, Wesley Marwing, that her involvement in racing truly flourished.
The syndicate has enjoyed success with several trainers over the years, building lasting relationships based on trust and shared ambition. Today, their horses are in the care of a single trainer, continuing the exciting journey together.
Kayleigh truly enjoys ownership, and it is about far more than winning races. “What I enjoy most about the sport is the thrill of it. Whether my horses win, lose or draw, I love being there to watch them compete. Being part of their journey is incredibly rewarding, especially getting to see how they develop from the moment they’re backed through to reaching the racetrack. But nothing compares to the feeling of watching one of your own horses cross the finish line first.” Among Kayleigh’s favourite racing memories is winning Lonsdale Stirrup Cup at Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse with Dance King, a victory made even more meaningful as the horse was partnered to success by Wesley.
Away from the racecourse, Kayleigh enjoys spending quality time with her close-knit family. Whether attending race meetings, supporting showjumping events or simply enjoying time together, horses remain at the heart of their lives.
Looking ahead, Kayleigh hopes to see the sport continue to grow by attracting more people through the gates and creating greater opportunities for owners, trainers and horses alike. “Horse racing is a very niche and acquired taste. It would be great to see an increase in on-course attendance, alongside more race meetings and bigger fields, giving horses, owners and trainers more opportunities to compete and win races.”
As a member of the Racehorse Owners Association, Kayleigh has found the experience both rewarding and welcoming. “To date, being part of the ROA has been nothing but a pleasure. Everyone is very accommodating, friendly and hospitable.”
With her infectious enthusiasm, unwavering love of horses and appreciation for the friendships that racing creates, Kayleigh embodies the spirit of modern racehorse ownership. Together with the 1 More We Stay Syndicate, she continues to embrace every thrill, every challenge and every celebration that comes with the sport, always with the promise that, whatever the result, they’ll stay for one more.
