Horse racing is one of South Africa’s most exciting and historic sports, and nowhere does the passion run deeper than at iconic events like the Hollywoodbets Durban July, the Cape Town Met, and the Summer Cup. Whether it’s the thunder of hooves across the turf or the roar of the crowd as the favourites storm down the straight, South African horse racing has produced unforgettable champions – both horses and jockeys. This guide highlights the top 10 jockeys in South Africa, along with the most famous and winning race horses the country has ever produced.
At 10bet Horse Racing, you can experience this rich tradition first-hand by betting on the biggest races across South Africa and beyond. But before you place your next wager, let’s take a look back at the greatest jockeys and horses to ever grace the track.
🏇 Top 10 Winning Horses in South Africa (All-Time Legends)
1. Sea Cottage
Arguably South Africa’s most famous racehorse, Sea Cottage was so popular in the 1960s that he became a household name. Known for his blistering speed and courage, Sea Cottage famously overcame an assassination attempt (he was shot before a big race!) and still went on to win major titles, including the 1966 Durban July. Widely regarded as one of the best race horses in South Africa due to his dominance and resilience.
2. Horse Chestnut
Often described as the greatest South African racehorse of the modern era, Horse Chestnut dominated the late 1990s. His crushing victory in the 1999 J&B Met by over eight lengths cemented his status as a once-in-a-generation champion.
3. Do It Again
A modern superstar, Do It Again is the only horse to win the Durban July back-to-back in 2018 and 2019. With multiple Grade 1 victories to his name, he has become a symbol of consistency and class in South African horse racing. Still remains one of the most successful Durban July winning horses in South African racing history.
4. Pocket Power
Few horses have had as big an impact as Pocket Power, who ruled the 2000s. He’s best remembered for winning four consecutive Queen’s Plates – a record that may never be broken.
5. Jet Master
Another legendary thoroughbred, Jet Master was not only a dominant racer but also became one of South Africa’s most successful sires, producing multiple champions that carried on his legacy. Jet Master’s legacy continues through generations of winning South African race horses.
Other Famous and Winning Race Horses in South Africa
South African horse racing has produced many champions across different eras, and several other horses are regularly mentioned when discussing the country’s all-time greats.
- Politician was a dominant force in the late 1970s and early 1980s, winning major races including the Durban July and becoming one of the most respected thoroughbreds of his time.
- Variety Club thrilled fans in the modern era with his consistency and international performances, including strong showings abroad.
- Flobayou became a fan favourite after winning the Durban July and multiple Grade 1 races, cementing his place among South Africa’s elite.
- Inglis remains one of the most successful racehorses in local history, with an exceptional winning record that stood for decades.
- Ipi Tombe, one of the greatest mares South Africa has ever produced, dominated both locally and internationally, earning global recognition for South African racing.
These horses are frequently included in discussions around the top 10 winning and most famous race horses in South Africa, depending on era and criteria.
👨✈️ Top 10 Jockeys in South Africa (Past & Present)
1. Piere Strydom (“Striker”)
Known for his tactical brilliance and calm under pressure, Piere Strydom is widely regarded as South Africa’s greatest jockey. With over 90 Grade 1 wins and multiple Durban July victories, “Striker” is a true legend of the saddle. He is frequently ranked as the best jockey in South Africa by racing fans and analysts.
2. S’manga Khumalo
In 2013, S’manga Khumalo made history by becoming the first Black jockey to win the Durban July, riding Heavy Metal to victory. His achievement was a landmark moment for South African racing and inspired a new generation of riders. His Duban July victory marked one of the most important moments in South African jockey history.
3. Lyle Hewitson
One of South Africa’s brightest young talents, Lyle Hewitson is a multiple champion jockey who has also made his mark internationally, competing successfully in Hong Kong and Japan. His rise shows the global reach of South African talent and highlights why South African jockeys are respected globally.
4. Felix Coetzee
With a career spanning decades, Felix Coetzee was a dominant force on the track and enjoyed major international success. He partnered with the legendary Silent Witness in Hong Kong, making him one of South Africa’s most recognised jockeys abroad.
5. Anton Marcus
A polished rider with numerous big-race victories, Anton Marcus has been associated with some of the country’s greatest horses, including Jet Master and Do It Again. His consistency at the highest level makes him a fan favourite. By consistency, we mean – he appears on lists of top jockeys in South Africa over the past two decades.
Other Notable South African Jockeys
Beyond the headline legends, South Africa has produced a deep pool of jockeying talent that continues to influence the sport locally and internationally.
- Richard Fourie is one of the most successful modern South African jockeys, consistently topping national standings and riding numerous Grade 1 winners.
- Weichong Marwing enjoyed major international success, particularly in Dubai, while also delivering memorable victories back home.
- Kevin Shea was known for his strength in big-race situations and partnerships with top-class horses during his career.
- Bernard Fayd’Herbe built a reputation as one of the most reliable riders in South African racing, with multiple high-profile wins.
- Gavin Lerena, still active at the top level, continues to be one of the most in-demand jockeys for major races across the country.
These riders are commonly referenced by fans when talking about top jockeys in South Africa, leading jockeys today, or retired South African jockey names.
Who is considered the best jockey in South Africa?
Many racing experts and fans regard Piere Strydom as the best jockey in South Africa, based on his longevity, multiple Grade 1 wins, and consistent success in the Durban July and other major races.
Several retired South African jockeys have also left a lasting legacy on the sport, including Felix Coetzee and Anton Marcus, whose careers helped shape modern South African horse racing.
Why South African Horse Racing is Special
South African horse racing is more than just a sport – it’s a blend of history, culture, and passion. From the glamour and fashion of the Durban July to the powerful bloodlines of world-class thoroughbreds, the country has built a racing tradition that continues to shine on the international stage.
And for fans, platforms like 10bet make it easier than ever to follow the action, analyse form, and back your favourites in local and global events.
Final Word
The stories of Sea Cottage, Horse Chestnut, Piere Strydom, S’manga Khumalo, and so many others prove that horse racing in South Africa is full of legends – both past and present. These stars remind us why the sport is so thrilling: it’s about courage, speed, strategy, and heart.
Whether you’re cheering trackside or following the action online, you can get closer to the excitement with 10bet Horse Racing – where South Africa’s racing heritage meets modern betting.
