While South African horseracing has not always been a model flagbearer for transformation over the years, the results at Kenilworth on Saturday saw eight of the nine races won by jockeys of colour on a proud day for the sport – and what must be something of an SA record.
The jockey ranks are the one sector of the horseracing industry that has nothing to hide in the 21st century when it comes to the report card of genuine transformation and on a sunny Saturday at Kenilworth, three riders booted home doubles, with father-and-son Morne Winnaar and Joshwin Solomons, also playing a role.
A file shot of a winning family – Morne Winnaar and Joshwin Solomons(Pic – Chase Liebenberg)
After a testing time early on when injury and lockdown tested his resolve, Robert Khathi grabbed a winner apiece for Justin Snaith and Michael Robinson, respectively. Impressive debut winner Green Light Gal (7-4) and recent maiden winner Sudden Storm (5-2) both won impressively.
Sihle Cele did his bit for the Milnerton brigade, winning on shock improver Noosa’s Princess (25-1) for Glen Puller, and Brave Tiger (27-4) for Piet Steyn.
Joshwin Solomons, whose Dad Morne Winnaar won the sixth on the favourite Dynastic Light for Glen Kotzen, rode the final two races for a 75-1 double to end the day.
He was aboard Icon King (11-1) for Mike Stewart, and then rode a confident race on the free-striding Moon Rock, a weak 5-2 favourite for Paul Reeves, to win the last.
Solomons, who is great value for his 4kg discount, has now ridden ten career winners.
Vodacom Durban July kingpin Justin Snaith was the most successful trainer of the day, with a double that included a win in the Workriders race for Sipho Booi on the hot fancy, Shinnecock.
- The next Cape racemeeting is at Durbanville on Wednesday 22 July.
