Mike De Kock
Two of South African horseracing’s favourite sons were capped in the inaugural Legends Of The Saddle award at 64 LIVE at Emperors Palace last Thursday evening.
Former champion jockey Michael “Muis” Roberts was the first Legend to be honoured as the Master of Ceremonies, Nico Kritsiotis, read out the incredible achievements of this worthy recipient in South Africa and abroad. The second Legend was South Africa’s Champion Trainer Mike de Kock whose successes have done so much to earn recognition internationally, for the South African racing industry.
Michael Roberts
Michael Roberts attended the dinner with his wife Verna while Mike’s proud family, Diane along with their son and daughter, Mathew and Kirsten were in attendance to support their Legend. Larry Wainstein, CEO of the Racing Association, said it is anticipated that the capping of racing personalities will become an annual event but that the selection criteria standards will be of the highest order.
The evening also served to welcome the international jockeys that participated in the ACTS International Jockeys’ Challenge as well as our local team who were awarded their national colours. The Jockey reception was paired with riding greats from another realm – cycling.
Renowned Tour de France commentator Phil Ligget gave the key note address, using anecdotes to amusingly link the two disciplines. Cycling awards were also made in a “Legends of the Pedal” category.
