Sporting Post columnists share their opinions and insights into horse racing from South Africa and around the world. They are experts who have a deep understanding of the sport of kings, enjoy their thoughtful and fresh articles.
He proudly holds the unique distinction of being the first pupil in that hallowed institution’s long history to have attained a University Exemption on passing his Grade 12 when graduating. But who exactly is this unassuming mystery man, with an impressive international riding CV, who hardly anybody seems to know anything about?
ROBYN LOUW: There was an interesting discussion on one of the chat sites regarding the death of good news in racing. Various ideas and theories were voiced and the media was mentioned as a bit of a black sheep in terms of contributing to the general slide by always focusing on the negative aspects.
Make the most of Sonny Bill Williams in the Pool rounds, because come the RWC quarter finals and onwards, he’ll be sitting in the stands with the commoners.
Bafana Bafana are on the verge of securing a berth in the continental finals in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea early next year, but this could prove to be their toughest match of the qualifying tournament.
SARAH WHITELAW: This stringent protocol will ensure that fewer South Africans participate in the world’s top races next year, resulting in less marketing of the South African racehorse as a world-class product. It will also deny locally raced champions such as Igugu (Galileo) a chance to compete at the highest level internationally.
Thoroughbred Group’s eNews: An Equus award for Captain Al; Dynasty the 2yo sales topper; Two-Year-Old Sale refelcted a healthy market contrary to TBA comment
An all-round horsewoman, breeder and racehorse owner, the Sporting Post’s ‘Louw Flyer’, Robyn Louw, has been acknowledged for her outstanding contribution to horseracing’s print media by being crowned the 2011 Equus Media Award winner.
LANCE BENSON: The legalisation of Dog Racing was discussed in parliament last week. As usual there are two opposing lobbies and the debate has a long road to walk still
Barring a massive upset, All Black’s McCaw’s fingerprints will be all over the trophy on October 23 after the final at Eden Park, where the All Blacks haven’t lost an international since 1994.
SARAH WHITELAW: Good runs from River Jetez, Mahbooba, Musir; G1 double for Spectrum daughters; Jet Master improving
ROBYN LOUW: Last Thursday afternoon found me on a plane to Joburg for the Equus Awards. Much like dentist visits, I find air travel a bit of an evil, necessary though it might be.
Varsfontein Stud boasts a stallion roster which is arguably the envy of every breeding outfit in South Africa
Eight On Eighteen holds a commanding lead in both the Three-Year-Old Male category as well as the race for the prestigious Horse Of The Year title
Gareth van Zyl and Smanga ‘Bling’ Khumalo were the toast of the KZN Capital City on Monday
