Snaith Racing’s fun public poll asking ‘Who is the greatest South African Jockey of all time?’ has attracted plenty of interest.
Jockeys are always an emotive debate.
We all have our favourites, and there are some colourfully dogmatic opinions posted on the Snaith Racing and Sporting Post Facebook pages.
The stats show that on Saturday morning at around 11h30 Michael Roberts leads Jeff Lloyd and Piere Strydom.
There were many interesting comments – including one from this season’s hottest emerging talent in dual Gr1 winning trainer,Adam Marcus.
He said: “Just spoke to my Dad, Basil, and he is of the opinion that Bert Abercrombie was the greatest jockey he has ever ridden against both locally and internationally.”
So that’s a curved ball from one of the nominees!
Jamaican Music. Won the July in 1976 under the late Bert Abercrombie.- nominated by Basil Marcus
The Snaith’s poll listed eight great riders:
Tiger Wright
Piere Strydom
Basil Marcus
Jeff Lloyd
Michael Muis Roberts
Anton Marcus
Felix Coetzee
Douglas Whyte
There are a few we could think of that could make the list in a canter.
Please click on the link below and vote:
The poll closes on Sunday evening.
Have Your Say
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173 comments on “Jockeys – Who Was Our Greatest?”
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Editor
Ivor
Frankie
Not unlike comparing the abilities of racehorses from different eras and trying to proclaim who was the greatest, the debate about who our greatest jockey was comes down to opinion. All the jocks listed were/are champions in their own right. My vote for GOAT would go to Muis Roberts and its based on his winning the British flat racing title in 1992 against great adversity. It is my opinion that this was far more difficult than winning the Hong Kong title.
The list can go on and on I suppose, unfortunately thievery and corruption puts a dampner on naming the greatest of all time….. I understand we can all be grandstand jockeys, but there are some rides that are in every sense of the word,”SHOCKING”.. Whether it’s just coincidence or blatant “hooking”, all these guys are top class in their own right.. my 1.. 2..3
1 = Jeff Lloyd
2 = Michael Muis Robert’s
3 = Anton Marcus
Frankie Zackey….My top 10 Jocks in no particular order that I would go to war with..Bartie Leisher.. Weichong Marwing…Gerald Turner…Muis Roberts..Rooi’s Fourie…Felix Coetzee…Robbie Sham…Jeff Lloyd…Luke Ferraris…Pierre Strydom..Reserve 1 Basil Marcus 2 Rhys Van Wyk….What a unbelievable squad…World Class
No Delpeche on the list:(:(:(
What has Luke Ferraris achieved to put him amongst the greatest jockeys of all time?
But then again, this (*edited) thought Hawwaam was the greatest horse of all time, so don’t read too much into his list of the greatest jockeys
Some super jocks that haven’t made the list yet is Garth Puller, Freddie MaCaskill, Stephen Jupp, Mark Sutherland and even Andrew Fortune. Guess the question will always be whether we only look at performance and achievements or do we include ability. With limited opportunities Fareed Anthony also did really well.
Marty Schoeman, Raymond Rhodes, Johnny Cawcutt, Stanley Amos
Top Ten : 1st : Michael Roberts 2nd : Dougie Whyte 3rd : Jeffry Lloyd 4th : Felix Coetzee 5th : Tiger Wright 6th : Charlie Barends 7th : Gerald Turner 8th : Bartie Leisher 9th : Anthony Delpech 10th : Marty Schoeman.
I have not considered existing riders as their records are not as yet complete.
Steve , do not forget that Muis won 11 South African jockeys titles and his record as the best that South Africa ever produced speaks for itself. If a poll was held as to who was the best I would be very surprised if he would not win by the proverbial street !
Hurrah Mr Editor for including Johnny Cawcutt Definitely one of the greatest Any horse any distance from
Frankie Zackey…MJ just in case I never get the chance to mention it 10 years down the line…It’s called Vison…I loved to see your list puppet
Frankie Zackey…Mr Ed I completely forgot about Martin Schoeman,,wow well done for mentioning MS…it’s crazy what we are dealt with barring 5 Jocks
Whatabout John Gorton?
Michael Roberts remains the greatest of all times.
I would include Big Race Bert Hayden in the top 4 of the all-time greats, his record of 3 July wins and a few places too, 5 Met wins, a few Queens Plate wins, several Guineas and Derbies wins, Gold Cup win and a host of other feature race wins makes an impressive CV. He wasn’t a product of the SAJA.
Anton Marcus, Pierre Strydom, Jeff Lloyd, Basil Marcus, Felix Coetzee, Doug Whyte all go in the top 10.
What about Anton Marcus, Garth Puller, Anthony Delpech , Mark Khan and even Andrew Fortune.
Mine so far are
M Roberts
G Puller
P Strydom
Johnny Cawcutt
Bert Abercrombie
B Marcus
S Amos
Raced most of my life in Cape Town so can’t really comment on JHB and Durban until TV coverage in 90s
“Muis The Ace” was the best!!! Remember him winning on a horse called Floral Slipper for Brain Cherry at Scottsville years ago. Great ride and I won money too!! Also the Match race on Northern Princess – brilliant ride and finally Scarlet Lady in the old Gilbey stakes in the early 80’s.
Great Memories.
This is such an easy list to compile and again the best has been ignored.
1: Bartie Leisher
then the rest.
Muis Roberts ,Andrew Fotune ,Piere Strydom
In no particular order.
Then you can start debating who is 4th best!
Johnny McCreedy ??
I recognise the names but only saw a glimpse of Raymond Rhodes towards the end of his career. Some very good jockeys,we have certainly been blessed in SA with quality riders.
As a country, we’ve produced some truly great riders and, in no particular order, I would consider Lloyd, Coetzee, Strydom, both Marcuses, Whyte, Delpech, Neisius and FaydHerbe among the jockeys who have really impressed me over the years. (I can only speak from the early 80s onwards).
Then there’s my personal favourite, one of the greatest all-round horsemen SA has produced: Garth Puller. No other jockey could pull off those late flying finishes as he did. I’m thrilled to see him doing so well as a trainer.
Having considered all these great names, though, if I have to stick my neck out for the GOAT, then I have no hesitation in naming Michael Roberts. 11 jockey titles while competing against rivals of the highest skill and class in SA. Then his exploits in the UK.
But his most mind boggling achievement was riding 203 winners in the days when there were only two, sometimes three meetings a week. In those days, one could win the title with around 150-160 wins which would be considered a very good haul. To break the 200 barrier in that era was unthinkable.
Also, excellent heavyweights: George Patmore; Basil Lewis. Lightweights like Duncan Alexander
Over the past 42 years since I started commentating in 1978 I have seen many great jockeys but I honestly believe that Bert Abercrombie was the best. For sheer power and drive in a finish I would have to side with Johnny Cawcutt and Anton Marcus.
Mark Khan
CHARLIE BARENDS
Michael Roberts on this list …. Multiple SA champ, even as an Apprentice + British champion. Bonus, KZN ?
Frankie, have you taken your meds today buddy… Luke ahead of Anton ? LoL
I watched Banana Boys winning their first Curry Cup. Naas said it’ll take another 100 yrs to win it again? Cheeky !
Take care All ?
To only Striker Strydom followed by Muis
Michael Roberts was no doubt our greatest ever jockey.. his feats in SA and then in the UK were unmatched. When I worked there I rode with top jockeys in the morning and they all said that he was the most difficult to bear in a finish, he always found more on his mounts. Personally, I found Jeff Lloyd and Anton Marcus to be unrivaled in SA when they rode for me.
Glyn Schofield rode your big one, Dylan?
A great topic to discuss. This is my humble opinion as there have been many great jockeys in my decades of racing.
1. Gerald Turner
2. Muis Roberts
3. Anton Marcus
4. James Maree/ Raymond Rhodes
5. Jeff LLoyd
6. Johnny McCreedy
7. Martin Schoeman
8. Garth Puller
9. Bartie Leisher
10. Anthony Delpech
Ones that were unlucky not to make my top 10 list, but were brilliant.
Bertie Hayden
Kevin Shea
Felix Coetzee
Bernard Fayd’herbe
S’manga Khumalo
Weichong Marwing
Piere Strydom
I unfortunately never saw the best of Johnny Cawcutt and Bert Abercrombie as they were Cape jocks and we didn’t have the privilege of TV in those days.
Interesting Gerald Turner on top, Joe
We are all much younger than you, so dont remember him 🙂
Sean Cormack, Glyn Schofield, Gary Verne
I don’t think we will ever see another like Lloyd… So I give him the 1st , 2nd and 3rd
No local racing, No Super Rugby, so replays of old finals
Now this article, yip, we”ll all have our favorites
In my top 10 will also be Weichong Marwing, Anthony Delpech and Bartie Leisher, plus 7 of the 8 in the article.
I thought this list was for greatest jockeys of all time.
Luke Ferraris lol
In that case, can i say my son, who’s going to be a great Jockey in 10 years time?
List of greats, not potential
Your son is doing well, Nicolin!
Michael roberts by far the most complete jockey i have ever seen followed by striker strydom the most naturally gifted and balanced rider …next would be antony delpech who never gets the accolades he deserves and i would add robbie sham as well
Rhys Van Wyk , marginally ahead of Robbie Fradd.
Every one of the jockeys mentioned fully deserve there accolades, but I must agree with Fred, that as a horseman Johnny McCreedy has always been regarded as one of the very best in the last 50 years together with Charlie Barends
Joe Soma got the top two correct from the 70’s onwards,
Only one champ striker. Then wayne agrella in 2nd .
Willie Uys
Paddy Mcgivern
My top jock is definitely Karis Teetan. Some top jocks had Ferraries to just point in the right direction to win from the big stables. Karis was an appie here and his riding ability was shown on all the bones he got to ride. Winning at big prices and getting In the places zero chance horses. I remember a Greyville night meeting in particular where he rode a horse to win for James Goodman Who was more shocked than the on course punters. He shows his stint in SA was no fluke with him riding winners overseas week in and week out.
STRYDOM
Mr Ed’- short heads between Gerald Turner and Muis Roberts. They were two of the most beautifully balanced jockeys and they had all the attributes that you would want in a top jock. Great form studiers, judgement of pace, stick use, intelligence, fearless and best judges- when they told you to have a bet, 9/10 times you collected.
I remember Muis’s agent- Lou Tankel- tipped us lots of winners.
Muis Robert is the GOAT for me on his achievements in GB.
what about Jimmy Anderson best balance and hands In the game .all depended o ink level lol
Its hard to imagine what could and would have happened but the following 2 names were lost pretty young and oozed ability.
Gerrit Viljoen
Warren Bailie
SA has been blessed with many wonderful riders. Todays crop is slightly weaker. Hopefully the glory days will return again some day.
Muis Roberts was the first jockey in Natal to have an agent, a personal friend of mine , Pat Guilfoyle, who has sadly passed away since . They formed a dynamic partnership in the 70’s with some really smart sorts including Bold Tropic, Rule by The Sword, Kruger Rand and of course one of Muis‘s all time greats, Sledgehammer
Hello Everyone
Beautiful Jhb storm
I’ve been in Racing since 1975 so cant really include anyone before that time
1.Muis the Ace
2.Striker P Strydom
3.Andrew manne Fortune
4.GT
5.Anton Marcus
6.Felix Coetzee
7.Rhys the handbrake Van Wyk
8.Raymond Rhodes
9.Jeff Lloyd
10.James Maree/Bartie Leisher/Basil Marcus
In a Tab News article dated the 25th July 2012 on Bennie Little:
“Ask Benny to compare racing today to the old days and he exclaims, “Nothing’s improved!’’ But press him just a little and he concedes that much tighter policing of the game has been of considerable benefit, while training facilities are also greatly improved.
However, he isn’t complimentary about modern-day jockeys and the fact that they are no longer required to ride work every day. “Today they sit on their backsides; provide no feedback to trainers.’’
Of the current crop, he rates Anton Marcus most highly.
The finest he ever saw was Cocky Feldman. “He was poetry in motion. A small man, with broad shoulders, it seemed like he was lifting a horse and carrying it over the line.’’
Benny never won a Gold Cup, but did run second three times in the country’s premier marathon event – to be contested again this weekend. So he knows how to navigate 3200m around Greyville.
“The secret is to be well placed, but not making the pace. Let others do the donkey work. In the straight, try to get a clear run. With such a long race you don’t want a tiring horse to have to check in the run-in. Don’t try to weave your way through.’’
A lesson from an old master for Saturday’s young contenders!”
Big race Joe Byrnes – who Anton Marcus rode his first winner for as an apprentice when Joe trained for a short period agreed with Benny on both accounts with regards the best jockeys. Although It is difficult comparing sportsmen of different eras, South Africa has been blessed with some brilliant jockeys that have competed around the world with distinction.
i
Memories, sadly my era were late 70’s onwards so cannot comment prior to that – in my “dodgy” order : 1. Muis Roberts 2. Felix Coetzee 3. Piere Strydom 4. Garth Puller 5. Bartie Leisher . I am also probably biased because i won the most money following these guys. Have a great saturday all.
I would like to add another snit bit of information.
For years I was laughed at when I said how I underrated a certain Cape Based 4th place running jockey was and guess what NOT 1 person has mentioned him. The “greatest: at moving his right hand back and forth without striking a horse whilst at the same time running on into 4th on a 3/10 certainty.
You soma best balance striker by far even andrew fortune mentioned it before.
Many have their day in the sum.
Some have the natural flair, others have that and get the breaks with the right stables
Random thoughts…Peter Sieg, Andre Hoffman, Andre Miller, Nicky Matthews, Derek Martin, Herbie Lasker – hardworking Deon Sampson
The late Andre Du Preez was top-class
The late Marlon Butler, Bennie Norton
Frankie Zackey…Cecil and Nicolin just for the records Our Great Lord blessed me with 3 Gifts…No 1 is that I can turn R1 into R2… No 2 Our Lord gave me a set of eyes that’s so powerful that i can see into future and trust me that’s not difficult to see in this field,, my reason for naming Luke Ferraris is for the simple reason to show you guy’s way in advance what i’m on about when it comes down to being a champion,, not if but or maybe Luke will be a Super Star and currently he’s not far behind,, and why i mention it now is that I live a very quick and crazy life style and might not have the opportunity in the next (few) years to mention it so I thought I’ll do it when I posted my 1st post..No 3 Our Lord gave me a set or ears so deadly that I can hear a pin drop in the desert…I thank the Lord each and every day for the great Gifts he’s blessed me with…
I don’t think I will ever see better than Lloyd…
In my opinion he takes the 1st 5 spots
The godfather Roy Culling and Tobie van Booma
Pierre Strydom in my opinion is the best I’ve seen in south africa Pierre has ridden for big stables as well as the smaller trainers and still achieved 5000 winners which is a milestone if we go back to the ride on jj the jet plane no pierre no jj the jet plane no pierre no pomodoro
1 Pierre Strydom
2 Anthony Delpech
3 Weichong Marwing
4 Anton Marcus
5 Richard Fourie
These are the jockeys of my era as a owner and punter
In my opinion these jockeys were born to fit in the saddle
1. Robbie Fradd
2. Jeff Lloyd
3. Anthony Delpech
4.Barend Vorster
My top 4
Frankie.. You do not understand the meaning of great…. Luke Ferraris seriously.. You are insulting these great jockies.. You have no clue chief..
Bartie leisher
Raymond Rhodes
Garth puller
Jeff lloyd
Basil marcus
Theese are great jockies… I am sure Frankie would disagree..
Frankie, hopefully you are not setting up another Hawwaam pandemic. The SP commentariat are very susceptible to any form of communicable disease.
But, I think you may be right this time. The kid looks like he has something.
Dougie Whyte, champion jockey in Hong Kong, THIRTEEN YEARS IN A ROW!!!
I wonder which jockey/s moaned the least about racing in soft to heavy going ?
Michael Roberts is the only SA jockey to hold the most prestigious Jockey title in the World for a season.
Felix is the all time best
He was the most consistent
The rest are all unpredictable
And unreliable
My boxed trifecta….Basil Marcus, Muis Roberts, Doughie White……all fantastic agains the best in the world on a regular basis.
BTW I see here is a poster that is very close to the LORD….looks like he is the only one to received these gifts…..with his close connections, can he maybe get us a selection from upstairs?
I was only 10 years old when Jamaican Music won the July in 1976. I still remember my late mom saying that there is only one jock that can ride him, and that is Bert Abercrombie. Watched on the telly, and sure enough, from out of the bundle came Jamaican Music with Abercrombie aboard. Mom went horse crazy that day, and myself, well I became an avid lover of the majestic animals and a fan of racing and riding! Is there any chance that there is footage out there of the 1976 July?
I wouldn’t put too much faith in Frankie Zackey ‘s views. He thought Hawwaam was the best horse in the world, and now he touts Luke Ferraris as one of the best riders of all time. Ferraris may well turn out to be a very good jockey, but why be ridiculous and put him in the top 10 all-time list at this stage of his career?
I think Zackey is an attention-seeker ( and a poor judge of anything related to horse racing)
Hey Frankie ? all in good fun. Luke is a talented young man … My fav young SA star is currently in Japan
Good Night, stay safe
Anton Marcus —-> low EQ but an extremely talented and hardworking jockey. Work ethics is extremely high ( maybe striker can learn from Anton Marcus on how to remain relevant )
My late Dad, would have voted for Basil Marcus . He was the punters friend. Always smiling and extremely High EQ.
Lloyd
Curling
Robert’s
Turner
My top 4
Leisher, Strydom, Sham and Lloyd
Most jovial with a phenomenal sense of humour goes to…..drum roll. Harold ‘Squeaky’ Butler.
Brian Deyes was also a good jockey… My top 5… Muis Roberts.. BERT ARBCROMBIE.. Stanley Amos.. Freddie Macaskill.. BRIAN Deyes.
Strydom is Messi
Anton Marcus is CR7
Muis is Pele
Fortune is Maradona
80’s plus
Jocks I would not include
Felix C, Lloyd, Fradd, Voster, Cormack, v Wyk, A M
Calm as ice – Basil M, Jimmy A, D Whyte, W M
Horseman – Strydom , Fortune, Garth Puller
Overall MR
Hi Frankie, reading your post you sound like the Donald Trump of South Africa, what great attributes you possess.
Jeff Lloyd No 1.
More great Jockeys that deserve a mention
Glen Hatt
Johnny Geroudis
Karl Neisius
Mark Sutherland
PE favorite Gavin Venter
Frankie Zackey…MJ yes I did said Hawwaam was the next best thing since Horse Chestnut,,l still stick to my statement I made unfortunately things did not goes his way during the Cape season so stop brining his name every time there’s a discussion you are really making a idiot of yourself move on to another subject if the few bucks you wagered on Hawwaam is still burning the pockets then don’t punt brother..what I find very strange Mr MJ or should I address you as Sir MJ what would make you feel more comfortable ? I see the name Anton Marcus is very popular choice on this panel of discussion i wonder why M J,, is it because he’s ridden lots of maiden winners ? do you think the man was thumb sucking when he said Hawwaam was one of the best he’s sat on… anyway I personally feel you need a few lessons especially once you mentioned Mark Khan as your blue boy,,Mark has always been a good Jockey don’t get me wrong but we talking the cream of jockeys now puppet..
I am interested in finding out the factors considered when making a call on best as defined. For example Jeff Loyd failed to win a single July, Pierre won 4 even Simanga won the July, 2 championships and a summer cup including grade1s. Antony Marcus and Pierre won tans and tans of grade1s over the guys preferred in the list I looked at so far. WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR ???
Anthony Delpech
Jeff Lloyd
Robbie Hill
Dougie Whyte – 13 times Hong Kong Champion… lets be honest no comparison. Yes Muis was brilliant, Pierre, Jeff, Basil, Mj, GT, Bert, Bartie, Anton, Anthony, Jeff…..to name but a few….. but 13 times Honk Kong Champion is something to behold
Having recently worked with Jeff Lloyd on his autobiography The Guv, I can’t imagine that there could be a more inspirational jockey than he was. His achievements and statistics speak for themselves, but what sets him apart is the longevity of his career and his ability to overcome a stroke at the age of 53 and once again ascend to the pinnacle of his sport, breaking Australian records and ending his career as the oldest jockey ever to win an Australian Metropolitan premiership. In the latter part of his career he won prestigious Group 1 raced in Australia, Hong Kong and Singapore, all as “the South African jockey, Jeff Lloyd.
A humble champion whose performance on and off the track has promoted South African racing on a global scale.
Basil Marcus.my favorite all time jockey. Rode Model Man to become first ever equine millionaire, among other great horses and riding feats..
What a great article! There were 10 riders that popped up consistently, and for good reason. It shows that this country has produced many very talented riders over a many decades, many of which demonstrated such internationally.
Jimmy Anderson rode ‘hands and heels’ and I think Andrew Fortune did the same? Brilliant riders indeed, not to be forgotten, either. Felix, I think deserved more votes. That Coetzee/Millard combination is legendary.
I have tremendous admiration for: Anderson; Fortune; Coetzee; Strydom;the Marcus brothers;Roberts;Lloyd;Hayden; Fradd; Puller;Whyte; Delpech. Gee wizz, the list goes on!
This country can be proud! Let it continue.
To be fair one will need to categorize the jockeys into an Era or time period between let say 70’s or between 1970 to 1980. In my opinion the all time great has to be Michael Robert’s who precedes Basil Marcus. Garth Puller is also in my opinion one of the greats. Bert Abercrombie was certainly one of the greatest gentleman in sport. These gentlemen were also highly professional. As a caddy in the 70’s I also found them to be generous with a great attitude and this will be a factor. I can remember others in that Era who also had a great attitude.
I would say1. Michael Roberts. 2 Anton Marcus. 3 Anthony delpech.4 Jeff Lloyd.5 striker.6weichong marwing.7kevin Shea.8 Richard fourie.9 Felix coetzee.10 Johnny geroudis. From my era
Greatest of all time especially for his British achievements Michael Roberts.
Jeff Lloyd not far behind Roberts great hands and judgement.
Justice, you are a wise person. Of the 100+ comments here you ask the only valid question. I am sure you will not see my response as it will be drowned in the waterfall of opinion and anecdote.
Mr Ed, you should run a poll on your website concomitant with these questions and anecdotes.
Individual opinion is mostly flawed but the crowd often approximates the correct answer.
Jay, you have a point
As there is no conclusive first choice
Who was the greatest is purely subjective but in no particular order,
Johnny Cawcutt and Bert Abercrombie were dominant 50 years ago.
Thereafter Muis Robert’s, The Marcus brothers Basil & Anton, Jeff Lloyd , Felix Coetzee, Garth Puller & Bartie Leischer.
Today’s jocks couldn’t live with them.
Mighty ‘Muis’ Roberts by a street. Then the rest…… ‘Striker’ Strydom,Charlie Barends, and name your pick.
Lol. This Frankie Zackey is definitely the Donald Trump of South African n racing. He talks about the “cream of the crop” of SA jockeys, yet in the same breath he includes Luke Ferraris! At this stage Mark Khan is well ahead of Ferraris but that may well change in the next 10 years, but let’s see it happen first.
Mr. Ed, your headline is “Snaith Racing’s fun public poll”
Fun is good, science can be an overload
True William
No racing fan passed science at school.
Jonathan Snaith suggested on Friday that we could share it – he said it’s a bit of ‘fun’ and could be interesting
It certainly turned out so.
Jay suggested a poll of all polls to get to the nitty gritty – who really was the greatest?
We may do that.
On another point, besides the top jockeys in SA, which era had the bravest jockeys in SA?
If I think back since the 80s when I started playing horses, i don’t recall as many meetings being cancelled as today, due to frivolous reasons. I think maybe one or 2 meetings a year got cancelled nationally, and here in Cape Town during the heart of the Cape winter the odd meeting got cancelled when it really stormed. So clearly the jockeys of yesteryear were much braver compared to the softies of today.
Muis Roberts rode in the British winter and Felix Coetzee, Jeff Lloyd, Basil Marcus and Doug Whyte competed in the tough overseas arena. So i definitely think the jockeys of yesteryear were tougher, braver and more resilient than tue current crop of softies.
“Fun is good, science can be an overload”
The scientific question is, is “fun” the operative part of that headline or “poll”?
Sorry to spoil the fun.
MJ, perhaps you are correct. One has to wonder with so many good jocks of yesteryear how today’s lot would have been able to survive. Biggest difference in riding styles is irons being alot higher today and although some are classic at it like Piggott, AM and Pierre the vast majority look like rag dolls flapping uncontrollably off the horse backs. This is indicative of injuries.
Well, armchair couch and keyboard critic.
Definitely Warren Kennedy, he’s an all rounder.
Definitely Warren Kennedy to be included, he’s an all rounder.
Shorty De la Rey Martin Scheman Aubrey Zukor Armando Freddi Leon Fernandez and Michael Cave
Without a shadow of a doubt Tiger Wright and Charlie Barends. Those two jockeys could win on a horse that “had no chance” of even coming last!!!
Tiger Wright and Charlie Barends fought out a finish in a 4th race at Turffontein one Saturday afternoon and until today I have never seen a finish like that race. They both literarlly “picked up” their horses to win. The result was the fairest decision…a dead head.
I have been racing since the early 70s and we are blessed to have had so many talented riders represent SA. I have read many of the posts regarding who the best jockey was or still is, but i stumbled onto a post by “Frankie” this guy must be a novice at the game or maybe had a R10 each way on Luke Ferraris that convinced him that he is the best. Surely silly comments such as his should not be allowed to be posted and hopefully the editor will get rid of people like him. My opinion Jeff Lloyd and Michael Roberts are two of the greats. I am not going to split them as number 1.
I really enjoy reading all the posts please lets keep them professional and knowledgeable.
No offense Mr.Frankie
Nice compliment Mr Peter. If I had a horse, I would have Warren on it. If he was riding for you, then Greg Cheyne…
Hoping when they retire their names will be mentioned along with the 8 in this article ?
Censored my view.. What a load of crap.. Allow idiots to post comments but decline to publish mine
Gavin, this was your last comment received – 18h57 last evening. Try refresh your browser:
Frankie.. You do not understand the meaning of great…. Luke Ferraris seriously.. You are insulting these great jockies.. You have no clue chief..
Bartie leisher
Raymond Rhodes
Garth puller
Jeff lloyd
Basil marcus
Theese are great jockies… I am sure Frankie would disagree..
I have been racing since 1985, owning since 1988 and the names of my favorite jockey’s of my time in no particular order
Gerald Turner – strong and won many races for my family
Michael Muis Roberts – World class
Bartie Leisher – the people’s jockey
Felix Coetzee – all rounder with balance
Jeff Lloyd – needs no introduction
Basil Marcus – great judge of pace over long distance
Frikkie Vermaak – had the bookies paying me for for a long time riding 4 winners on our horses on a Turffontein meeting in 86
Ganymede, Gay Tune, Dream Spitit and Record Star
Garth Puller – clever thinking master
2 jockey’s that will always be close to my heart:
Donovan Habib – the best judge to get a horse ready and lined up
Pierre Strydom – golden hands and is simply the best
There are many not mentioned on my list but jockey’s that were or are top class
Gavin Lerena
Weichong Marwing
Douglas Whyte
Sean Cormack
Rhys Van Wyk
Robbie Sham
Anton Marcus
S’munga Khumalo
Richard Fourie
Lyle Huwitson
Kari’s Teetan
Nuresh Jaglall
Callen Murray
Christie Blom
Douglas Roper
Thanks to Snaith racing and Sporting Post for such a refreshing and oft’ nostalgic thread/article.
Really enjoyable reading. Would it be possible to find out and publish, with input from readers, as to the whereabouts and current status of these wonderful South African jockeys ? Bearing in mind that some may still be riding and some may have sadly passed.
Hi Jess, thanks for the positive
On the ‘where are they now’ – good idea: We will need to do some homework – with Tex Lerena and some of the old school
Frankie Zackey…Mr Ed is it not all in the fun ? My reason for adding Luke into the picture was all in the fun and yes without a doubt Luke will be one of the most talked about Jockeys in the very near future,, in my opinion he can ride with the best of them at the moment..Now let’s get Leonard’s attention back,just for the record in the early 90s Bookmakers at Bruma had a extremely powerful ring however it was illegal to pay a punter with PD cheques if they won,not on 1 occasion but for a period of about 3 years this went on for…Myself and my good mate David Safi terrorized the living daylights out of bookmakers it became a joke what type of cash was just written off…David was sharp he said Frankie we to give them time to recover and why so is that they could accommodate us for their next 3 to 6 month hiding,, not 1 bookmaker can deny this,, that when they saw us coming they would immediately slam the betting boards closed ??? what we gave away in presents to friends and the staff was enough to see them through for months,you car guards were even earning salaries ???
Thanks Editor. Appreciated. Look forward to it.
Deon makes very valid observations.
Without a doubt Donavan Habib had a very special skill and is a power person to boot. Great Guy
Craig Arnold was also a jockey that had the greatest feel and sat on many champions in the mornings.
james Goodman had a bloke called Ian Lightfoot working for him at one stage and he was another to set one up and work with.
BUT
From a punting and putting your head down there was only 1 guy I ever knew that was simply exceptional
Our record when I 1st moved to the UK was 19 winning bets in a row. He just simply got it spot on. His name was Willie Uys , his transformation of certain stables when he arrived was evident his demons were his downfall.
Only one mentioned Karl Neisius, and from Durban
He rode so many winners for Snaiths, not among the Greatest but Damn good
Thx Ed , it’s was great FUN
Tks Rian
My top ten selection is somewhere way back in the posts which have passed over 100 !
May I take this oppotunity to make mention of the late Gary Verne , a very good jockey and a better human being it would be difficult to find !
Who knows what he could have achieved as he passed on tragically still very young ?
1. M.Roberts, P.Strydom, D.Whyte, J.Lloyd, B.Marcus, A.Marcus, S.Jupp
2. F.Coetzee, R.Fradd, A.Delpech, G.Hatt, K.Neisius, G.Puller, M.Sutherland, K.Shea
3. W.Marwing, M.Khan, J.Geroudis, G.Figueroa, G.Schofield, S.Randolph
The current world-class SA riders are Khumalo, Teetan, Kennedy, Ferrari.
Mention must be made of Grant van Niekerk of the current crop. He has great hands and feel of a horse. He’s a supremely confident and charismatic character. Could be the Frankie Dettori of SA racing. This guy has talent, but needs to ride more than being suspended most of the time.
His feat on HK shouldnt be taken for granted. Like to compare the other great jockeys from SA in their 1st season stats in HK to his.
Make no mistake my favorite jockey is a certain Anton Marcus. He in my opinion makes the fewest mistakes and a perfect judge of the conditions on raceday. This guy is the consummate professional. He genuinely trys on every single mount. Will never forget his rides on Glanour Boy and Jay Peg in the Duty Free.
Surprising no one mentioned Andrew Fortune . Most beautiful hand riding balance on a horse to perfection.
He did get an honourable mention, Shanil
Agree with your observation
Hi Frankie, if you made the bookmakers shiver ,you should have suggested a retainer to stay away, I trust the car guards that looked after your Rolls Royce while you were “murdering” the petrified bookmakers in the tattersalls were well reimbursed. I think I have been in this game a little longer than you- stop living in a dream world my friend
Mr Ed, love the idea of where are they now? And what about the most memorable horses they rode?
Look at the stats. Piere Striker Strydom is the greatest of all time. Agged to the fact that he rates as one of the most stylish jockeys to have ever put a leg over a horse.
Frankie , I have to add to Selwyns comment , I do not know the bookmakers at Bruma but I can assure you that the bookmakers based in what was then know as Natal from the 60s to the 1990s who I did know and sometimes worked for would have not only smiled when they saw you and your mates enter the rooms or the ring on the course but would have given you a stretch on anything you wanted to back and made you feel at home !
The essence of bookmaking is percentages , layoffs and to make sure any gambling does not form part of your book , in this manner on average it would take 7 favorites on a 9 race card which is a 20 % risk for a bookmaker to make any loss.
Therefore 80 % of the time the bookmakers walk away with profit no matter who or what is being backed with the possible exception of a bookmaker accepting a monster bet at the off that cannot be laid off but even that would just make an ugly dent in their take of 80 % !
Ed,
In line with Jess K’s suggestion, however less nostalgic but critical to the survival of the industry –
Would it be possible to find out and publish, with input from readers, as to the whereabouts and current status of THE PHUMELELA EXECUTIVES? Bearing in mind that some may still be SELF ISOLATING TO THE POINT OF INERTIA and some may have sadly passed THEMSELVES IN A RACE TO PUT SOME DISTANCE BETWEEN THEMSELVES AND THEIR “INVALUABLE CONTRIBUTION” TO THE INDUSTRY.
Strydom at his peak was the greatest jockey in the world.
But he rode too little abroad. Was excellent in HK in 1995 and 1997 and could have been champion if he continued riding there. Did great recently on that little island, but short stint spoiled by an incomprehensible ride on a sure winner and that cost him a severe suspension and fine.
Selwyn and Donald I think I know exactly how a bookmaking business works.
Not all bookmakers play to the same rules.
Being an ex-bookmaker where myself, my Brother Warren and Derick Flynn held a licence at the Pavillion at Turffontein, I surely understood the bookmaking business.
I love the part where Selwyn says stop living in a dream world.
Maybe just maybe Mr Ed could find the recordings of Nico Kritsiotis interviewing Dave Safi from the Tellytrack studios.
Nico asked David a serious question – are you guy’s fixing racing ? The industry, I presume it was bookmakers Nico was referring to, are claiming that we are fixing racing ? is it true or not ????…
Selwyn and Donald pity you guys were not around to see it 1st hand where bookmakers would line up like school kids asking for a discount on winning bets ???
Just another quick one – this is something that will stay with me forever…Bookmaker/Owner Henry Mansell owned a horse called Golden Hoard who was apparently prepping for a race that Mike had in mind a few weeks later. Anyway we approached Johnny Peter, who was Raymond Solomons partner, and also a very good friend of Henry Mansell and asked him instead of us running around do you wanna lay us a bar of Golden Hoard.
He said: “Boys it’s big bet but what I’ll do is if the horse is 4/1 I’ll lay you the whole bet at 5/2.” Anyway it was a done deal.
I stand to be corrected about pricing but it was somewhere in that region. In the interim JP then called Henry to find out how strong Golden Hoard was.
JP mentioned to Henry that he’s standing it for a huge amount and would like to see exactly what he should take back and what he should stand it for.
Anyway Henry said to JP LOUD AND CLEAR “ Send me my present, the horse can’t win ???”
Result? It won in an absolute canter…But the best was a horse called Smart Money winning over a sprint…
Frankie Zackey…David just reminded me that our good friend Les Kourie Jnr was also a shareholder in Golden Hoard gee that’s a name that we all remember,,the Kourie family my word what a powerful combination in the bookmaking circle..Safi I must admit your memory box is way better than mine
Frankie, you have asked for my attention back, I dont often comment but you seem to have an answer for everything in racing. I agree with Selwyn you are living in a dream world, you went from tipping LF as one of the greats, to being 1 of the biggest punters 3 decades ago, to then being a bookmaker. I dont want to bring up the subject of stud farms, you would probably tell us all you were the best sire in your era.
Wake up from your dream and come back to reality.
Hi Frankie , I accept your comments in good faith and admit that I am speaking from a dated position as I have no idea on how present day operations are conducted by these so called bookmakers who you never see the faces of and therefore the personal touch has completely disappeared over the years from my observations of that business that exists today !
How we got from the headed subject of jockeys to bookmakers just shows you the emotion that is involved in horse racing !
Stay Safe !
Frankie Zackey…All good Donald,,Stay Safe Buddy..Leonard you are spot on about me replying to just about every article that gets posted…suppose living in a dream world has been great and even better know knowing that my dreams were actually turned into reality,,anyway not bad for a dreamer who managed to get you to attention as well as to get you to comment to my post ? Cheers from the R10 punter
Gee wiz, well done to all involved putting this article together. It completely side tracked everyone to the real crisis at hand. End of the day it’s what we needed.. the comments were great, the different view points,and the different stories that came forth. Nevertheless we are all in this together,and the sad part is, nobody really knows who will and is capable enough to pull racing out of the fire. I hope that it’s a competent body,and we can move 5 steps forward,instead of 10 steps back.
Hi Frankie, I read your comment with interest and have no doubt you have had big wins over the years just like many of us have had, it’s not hard to win big money in this game , the hard part is trying to keep it.l hope you have managed to keep some of your big wins you had in Bruma many years ago or maybe a few buildings you may have bought at that time
no bertie hayden….crazy
The Best Of The Best
Striker Strydom
Gavin Lerena
Anton Marcus
Gerald Turner
Weichong Marwing
Basil Marcus
Anthony Delpech
Bartie Leisher
Jeff Lloyd
Muis Roberts
Douglas Whyte
Felix Coetzee
Mr Ed, it would be fantastic to do an article on past bookmakers, coups, where those bookmakers are, with photographs. I think there would be a lot of input .
Great idea Barry.I commented a bit late on an atrticle mentioning Durban bookmakers like Micheal Ratner,Freeman brothers Morris Vee etc.All special
Frankie,whether we agree or not with your comments ,we always look forward to reading them.Keep on posting.
Agree Pops
Frankie sings it his way 🙂
And so say most of us Pops … ?
And Ed,don’t forget Come Blow Your Horn
Thank you guys there is so many I would like to put first look with no disrespect if Douglas didn’t whent over to Hong Kong he would proof to be beter then All of them he wasn’t given a chance by trainers like most of jockeys still don’t get how ever mine is like Felix Anthony Anton Marcus Andrew Strydom Greg muis Basil remember a jock is only as good as the horse
I really agree to Hilton witz comment about anthony Delpech not getting the recognition he deserved anthony was a brilliant jockey and was friendly to the public of which as a punter and owner I did appreciate his natural talent and the respect he gave to the racing public it doesn’t take much to be a professional sportsman and maintain respect to people from my punting perspective we got value on from the odds Anthony rode unlike the way anton Marcus is priced up in Durban and in the early days they way bookmakers priced up pierre strydom f
Good evening,
Would like to enquire if anyone knew Max William Benkwitz who was a jockey in Pietermaritzburg before 1980 i would think. Not sure of the exact years.
Thank you
Charlene
Hi Charlene , I have been horse racing for many years and have never come across the name that you mention ?
Are you sure Max was not an amateur rider and therefore not a licensed professional jockey as no professional jockey is just based in Pmb. ?
Hope this information helps a little ?
…..spare a thought for Gavin Van Zyl who could have had much higher stats and even a few championships had he not for religious reasons ….did not take rides on Saturdays and this in the very height of his jockey career……
Hi there all
I thoroughly enjoyed the responses to this article. Just shows the amazing versatility of Jocks that we have had.
My pick of favourite (Not always best) jockeys is as a result of personal experiences.
My first interaction with betting on horses was in 1980 (13 Years old at the time). My Dad placed a bet for me on the July at my request – using my meager pocket money – on Beau Art and he went on to win that year. The Jockey was Freddie Macaskill.
Therefore he is my favourite Jock off all time as he got me hooked on this lovely sport of Kings and my passion has never waned since.
My list for BEST jockeys though are:
1. Striker Strydom
2. Muis Roberts
3. Felix Coetzee
4. Jeff Loyd
5. Dougie Whyte
Anyway – Sporting Post and Snaith Racing : Thanks for this initiative. Really a lot of fun reading the comments on this subject.
Regards
Tjaart Venter
Thanks Tjaart for the thoughts
That was a deep lockdown subject that evoked a lot of interest
Felix Coetzee was the best in my opinion, yes the rest was probably a short head behind, but let me tell you why he is my choice.
He rode a ton of graded races and put the same effort in winning a maiden at Durbanville on a wet Wednesday in pouring rain.
He just got off the plane from Hongkong and drove straight to Philippi training centre to ride work for a local Wednesday meeting, no jet lag and no complaints just a true professional and a very dedicated man. Not saying the others were not, but I saw this with my own eyes. That’s a champ.
Best regards from Riaan van Reenen
Hi Riaan
Good to hear from you
Has to be Michael Roberts..Followed by Garth Puller,Mark Khan, Gavin Lerena who won the jockeys International in Hong Kong
And Pierre Strydim.
Message from former Jockey David Lilley, received via email:
Bert Abercrombie. Gerald Turner . Garth Puller . Raymond Rhodes . Paddy McGivern .Marty Schoeman. Kenny Michel . All Brilliant riders
SDJ Ferreira
My Dad used to ride with Muis Roberts and Garth puller
In which centre, Andries?
My pick for greatest jockeys are as follows:
1. Michael Roberts
2. Dougie Whyte
3. Garth Puller
4. Felix Coetzee
5. Marty Schoeman
MIchael Roberts would have had greatest SA jockey championships had he stayed in South Africa. However, his achievements abroad was quite phenomenal and the same could be said of multiple Hong Kong champion Dougie Whyte.
It was a joy to watch all the great jockeys during our time.
Its hard to tell I don’t want to put no jockey down we got great jockey then we have to look further certain jockeys dont get to ride for certain trainers I think they all good but if i have to choose one it will be Mr white when he was here he never gets the real ride only did work look what he did becomes champion 13times I mean what is there to explain more
I would have to say delpech was real superstar followed by muis then strydom and then Marcus. But in time to come lyle hewitson is going to be the greatest jockey there ever is
Jeff lloyd… At age of 58 he broke records one after the other in oz… And top in SA.. There is no one to compare the unique style.. Race temprament. He rarely needed a whip he got every inch out of a horse……..had a stroke and still came back fighting to the top till he retired 58 yrs old and he could easily have gone on.. Dj whyte 13 times champ in hong kong and a CHAMPION IN SA THAT is incredible and now training and top class. BASIL.. FELIX.. BARTIE. MUIS.. DELPECH.. STRYDOM.. ANTON… NO ONE MENTIONS MARK KHAN 5 times champ in SA and overseas if not for a bad injury he would still have retained his title…many years. One can find every single one of the champion jocks reasons for being the best. ITS BEEN many years of enjoying watching these men do what they do best… Everyone is a winner. We have new blood out there and champions in the making. But remember racing wont ever be just that without the others jocks who are great riders in their own rights. We cannot forget without them there is no racing.. But guv.. He is my choice 😁
In my opinion, there is no other South African jockey to compare with Michael “Muis” Roberts. He’s won more championships during possibly the most competitive period of horse racing and riding. Strengthening his claim is the fact he was able to go to England and become champion over there.The jockeys riding in England at the time were some of the greatest riders of all time, Lester Piggott, Willie Carson, Greville Starkey, Pat Eddery, Walter Swinburn, Joe Mercer. To beat these guys Michael proved his incredible ability.
One guy that hasn’t been mentioned here is Jimmy Anderson, who although never had the amount of rides and chances as all these other riders, was a superbly balanced rider, a brilliant judge of pace, and the ability to ride hands and heels for just about all his wins. Made some good money backing Jimmy!
Thanks Jean – plse add your surname!
Hi, I have completed my list based on win ratio, riding abilities, strengths and weaknesses. I would like to thank Snaith’s Racing for bringing about this topic. I became involved in this beautiful game at a young age, so my top 10 is from the 70’s onwards. Without a doubt my no. 1 choice is none other than Michael Leonard Roberts, Gerald Turner, Garth Puller, Raymond Rhodes, Stephen Jupp, Paddy Mcgivern, Basil Marcus. Tobie van Booma, Pierre Strydom, Anton Marcus and Anthony Delpech.
Welocme Raj Naidoo
Glen Kotzens brother Grant, was 1 of the best. Ask Muis
Sean Makkie
Muis for sure
Anthony Delpech 336 winners in a season 1998/1999 Still a record and will never be broken
Hong Kong 7 Group Races including The QE2 /Hong Kong Cup/The Gold Vase/ The Stewards Cup/The Guinees/ The Champions and Chater cup/The Dubai Sheema Classic/ and more all in 3 Seasons
Cmon Guys Do Me a favour
Mark Sutherland…. Waichong Mawing
Hi All, I’m a South African in Australia so I watch a lot of SA jockeys that ride overseas. To be the greatest SA jockey of all time, you must be able to compete at an international level so therefore No1 is Muis followed by Dougie, Felix and Jeff. The rest are average like Strydom, he came over to England to ride for Mark Johnstone and he was out of his depth, by far.
Are you serious Clinton ? Strydom average !! You and Frankie should become mates lol.
Michael Roberts, Felix and Striker- Enough said. Best young jockey I have seen for many years is Lyle Hewitson
My favourite was the late great Michael Cave ! What a jockey with a superb record ! He could have been a great.