The broader Cape equestrian community was saddened to hear the news on Sunday 14 July that accomplished horseman, leading showjumper, crack amateur jockey and a top farrier, Greg Dabbs had passed at the age of 71, after a bout of pneumonia.
Described as the complete horseman by a wide spectrum of friends and associates, the popular Greg Dabbs was diagnosed with Alzheimers in 2019 and had suffered ill health for some years.
Greg and Sharyn – married for 30 years
His wife of 30 years, Sharyn (nee Gibbons), an accomplished equestrian in her own right, described Greg as a horse whisperer and a highly talented man of enormous intellect, talent and skill.
“Greg’s passing has left a gaping hole in our lives. We didn’t have children of our own, but his beautiful Cavalier King Charles spaniels were our kids. I will love and miss him forever,” said Sharyn.
Growing up in the Southern Suburbs of Cape Town, Greg attended Bergvliet High School and lived his every day for the horse. Besides a two year stint in Johannesburg where he had a string of showjumpers, and working in Dubai in 2000 for Sheik Mohammed, Greg Dabbs was a lifelong Capetonian.
The top horseman had no fear!
Milnerton trainer Peter Wrensch rode with Greg Dabbs in the halcyon days of the Cape Hunt & Polo Club.
“Greg Dabbs was an exceptional horseman, well balanced with soft hands and horses ran for him. Relaxed they could use their action and he never appeared to need vigorous urging. He was a very good tactical rider and we had many laughs and post-race discussions. Regardless of the results there was great dressing-room banter, and an even better forum for entertainment upstairs after racing. This was packed with racing stalwarts, who, sadly, are dwindling these days,” lamented Peter.
A pensive Greg Dabbs
Former champion jockey Garth Puller said that the news of Greg’s passing was ‘very sad indeed’.
“What an incredible asset to the whole horse industry, Greg was a friend and true gentleman. My condolences to his family and close circle of special friends that cared for him in his final journey. Rest in peace my pal,” added Garth.
Retired jockey Patrick McGivern reacted to the sad news. “I have known Greg since we were 12 year olds learning to ride at Santiago stables. My condolences to all the family. Rest in peace Greg.”
Greg Dabbs was a widely respected farrier and is remembered and respected for his exploits with the great Pocket Power, amongst others.
Greg looked after the fragile feet of Bass champion Pocket Power
Candice Bass-Robinson spoke to the Sporting Post on behalf of the Bass Racing team.
“Greg worked for the Bass Racing yard as our farrier for many, many years. Besides being a highly respected colleague, he became a good friend to our entire family and staff. He was a brilliant farrier and was extremely dedicated to his profession and craft. We are all very sad to hear of his passing, and we share our sincere condolences with his loved ones.”
Another former Cape jockey, Eric Fordred said that Greg Dabbs was one of the kindest most gentle of men he had ever had the privilege of knowing.
“He was a top class farrier and Cape Hunt Jockey. My condolences to his wife Sharyn and all his family and friends,” said Eric.
Not a great quality pic, but Greg wins on Lucciola at a Cape Hunt meeting back in 1983 at Kenilworth
Former owner and steward, Bruno Mercorio remembered Greg Dabbs as a good teacher to him and his sister. “We also have fond memories in our youth of you at the Cape Hunt meetings. Rest in peace Greg.”
Greg Dabbs is survived by his wife Sharyn, his son Neil and daughter Tracey from a previous marriage, his eldest sister Glynis, who resides in Australia, and another sister Lesley.
Sharyn Dabbs has planned a memorial service to celebrate Greg Dabbs’ life at their Tokai home for Sunday 4 August at 15h00.
She has requested that those wishing to join her on the day to celebrate the life of a wonderful man please contact her on mobile 084 764 5269 by 30 July to confirm attendance.
Greg enjoyed Sam Smith-here’s one of his favourites:
