The Royal Victory team on stage on Saturday evening! (Pic – JC Photos)
“In the quiet moments spent with a horse, we can find our centre, ground ourselves, and tap into the healing power of their presence.” – Author Unknown.
Royal Victory, a winner in two categories at Saturday evening’s Highveld Feature Season Awards, is a remarkable thoroughbred whose impact transcends the racetrack.
Charl Pretorius writes that beyond his impressive racing record, Royal Victory has brought much needed joy and elation to those around him.
Moreover, he has played a pivotal role in helping two families cope with severe trauma.
Royal Victory wins the 2023 Gr1 Betway Summer Cup (Pic – 4Racing)
The story of Royal Victory goes back to May 2011 when Chantel Victor, a passionate horse lover and the beautiful 18-year-old daughter of Pieter and Belinda Victor, was diagnosed with adrenal cancer.
This diagnosis came just months after she had successfully completed her Matric year and was eagerly anticipating the start of her adult life and career.
The news was devastating, as Chantel had been in excellent health, and this type of cancer is typically only seen in adults over the age of 40.
Chantel Victor (Pic – 4Racing)
Pieter recalled, “They removed a massive tumour from Chantel’s abdomen. She fought bravely for four years, but the cancer began spreading to the rest of her body, and she ultimately lost her battle in 2015. This was a period marked by profound sorrow and anguish that is difficult to put into words.”
During this time, another young horse lover, Savanah May, one of three daughters born to Wendy May and adopted by her life partner, Nathan Kotzen, was living life in a way that deeply touched everyone around her. Savanah exuded a vibrant energy, with a loud, happy, and passionate demeanour, coupled with an infectious laugh that filled the room. She had a loving presence that left a lasting impact on those she encountered.
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