NEWSLETTER October & November 2013

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1 NEWSLETTER October & November 2013 When you say It s hard, it actually means I m not strong enough to fight for it. Stop saying it s hard. Think positive! From the Headmaster s desk Dear Parents and Friends of the Academy Once again the Christmas Festivities are upon us. There has been a lapse of time since the last newsletter, this is due to the fact that we have been short-staffed over the past few months, thus we decided to combine our newsletter into one for the past 3 months. In addition to two staff members resigning, our head of academics and housemaster Mr Marius Nel was rushed to hospital for emergency surgery. We are pleased that he is back in our midst and we wish him a speedy recovery. Much has happened over the past few weeks, most notably the final year examinations for Grade 10, 11 and of utmost importance, the Matrics (Grade 12). They have sat their final major exams culminating in the end of their schooling. We now wait in anticipation for the results at the end of December. Their successes usually far surpass our expectations we hope and pray this will be the case again this year. Prize Giving was an enjoyable and memorable occasion this year, ably presided over by the master of ceremonies Graeme Hawkins who infused everyone with a mood of excitement. The recipients of the magnificent Trophies, the Academy has so fortunately been donated, expressed joy and pride on receiving their prizes. Congratulations to all the prize winners, and especially to the Dux of 2013, Ryan Munger. I would like to express my grateful thanks to all involved with the organization of this event held at Greyville in the Classic Room on the 22 November. In addition thank you to the parents who attended this important and prestigious event on the school calendar. We hope we will be able to welcome more parents at the Prize Giving next year. Our kitchen is finally receiving a long awaited refurbishment. No doubt the kitchen staff are suffering a certain amount of inconvenience. However they have coped very well and the staff and apprentices have continued to enjoy their usual good fare in the headmaster s house. On a sadder note I would like to express our condolences to our honorary chairman Mr Jonnson and his family on the passing of his wife Sue. Sue was an amazing lady, who has left a lasting impression on all who have been associated with her. She will be sadly missed in the community. As we take a well-deserved break to catch our breath, we need to focus on what we can

2 potentially do better when we return, so that we can continue in our pursuit of being great. In conclusion I would like to take this opportunity to extend a truly heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported the Academy over this last year. To the Board and in particular to Mr Avison Carlisle, a special thank you for your contribution to the smooth functioning of the Academy. Once again, I extend to both the racing operators, Gold Circle and Phumelela, a real appreciation for your continued support. On behalf of my wife Marianne and myself, I would like to extend God s richest Blessing to everyone over this festive season. Yours in racing Graham Bailey My first Stud farm visit On Friday the 4 th of October 2013 the gr 11 s departed at 10:30 sharp to Yellow Star Stud farm to learn about horse breeding and foaling. We were all unsure of what to expect as it was all new to us. Much to my joy and other apprentices the bus needed to be topped up with petrol, so we could get a few road trip snacks. Before we knew it, we were traveling along a dirt road following signs to Yellow Star Stud. We approached a gate followed by a beautiful road surrounded by trees. We were all exited as we arrived as it seemed to us that we were all of on a short holiday. But little did we know of the knowledge we would gain. We were greeted by the owner, Mr De Klerk, and shown around our cottage. We all rushed off to find the best bed. Later we were shown a covering by Kildonan, which was a sight to see. Later, we were shown around the beautiful farm by Mrs De Klerk. We were all given the freedom to relax and braai our own food. As usual we all cooked what tasted best. Later we found ourselves in what could have been the most intense game of UNO ever. The day began later than usual for us as we made our way to ride work for Mr Erasmus at 7 o clock. We rode a few horses and it was very exciting as it was pace-work. It was great fun to ride on the new track and to feel farm horses. 2

3 Later in the day we witnessed two foaling s, one at 2:30pm and the other at 9:45pm. That was one of the most amazing spectacles I have ever seen. We were able to name one foal. We all discussed it and came up with the name Lord Uno because the sires name was Overlord and our tense Uno games. Our stay was short lived as on Sunday morning we rushed to tidy up and leave. I had a spectacular time there and learnt valuable lessons that will help me in my racing career. I felt almost at home as we were treated like royalty. I thoroughly enjoyed my stay and would not change it for the world. I would highly recommend anyone to stay there and you will have an amazing experience. Big thanks to Mr De Klerk and his family and staff for giving us a good time. I would also like to thank the South African Jockey Academy for the wonderful opportunity. By Callan Murray Annual Speech Day and Prize giving Ceremony We hosted our Annual Speech Day and Prize Giving Ceremony at Greyville on Friday the 22 nd of November. The biokineticist, Justin Bircher, was our special guest of honour at this prestigious event. His speech was an inspiration to all especially to all apprentices. He presented the following awards: ACADEMIC AWARDS GRADE 10 Certificates of merit The following apprentices were awarded certificates for an improved aggregate in any subject over a period of one year: 1. Carlos Nyakane for English Home Language and Mathematical Literacy. 2. Reuel Mbonane for English Home Language and Life Orientation. 3

4 GRADE 11 Certificates of merit The following apprentices were awarded certificates for achieving 75% or more in any subject: 1. Brandon May for Consumer Studies. 2. Shadlee Fortune for Mathematical Literacy. 3. Ntokozo Gumede for IsiZulu First Additional Language. 4. Mathew Thackeray for Life Orientation. 5. Callan Murray for Business Studies, Consumer Studies, Equine Studies, Life Orientation and Mathematical Literacy. 6. Tristan Godden for Afrikaans First Additional Language, Business Studies, Consumer Studies, Life Orientation and Mathematical Literacy. The following learners were awarded certificates for improved aggregate in any subject over a period of one year: 1. Shadlee Fortune for Business Studies. 2. Ntokozo Gumede for Business Studies and Consumer Studies. 3. Tristan Godden for Consumer Studies. 4. Divan Neethling for Consumer Studies. 5. Marcell Pillay for Consumer studies. 6. Mathew Thackeray for Life Orientation and Mathematical Literacy. 7. Callan Murray for Afrikaans First Additional Language, Consumer Studies, English Home Language, Equine Studies and Life Orientation. The following learners were awarded a certificate for an overall improved aggregate for the year: 1. Ntokozo Gumede 2. Callan Murray EQASA EXAMS The EQASA (Equestrian Qualifications of Southern Africa) Exams were held at the SA Jockey Academy during of the Grade 11 Apprentices sat the exams. The subjects covered were Grooming & Turnout, Tack, Stable Management, Travelling & Trucking, Equine Physiology & Behaviour and Lunging. The rationale behind our Apprentices doing these exams, is firstly to give them an understanding of how to care for horses which are, after all, the integral part of the racing industry and their future. The second reason is for them to achieve a Stable Yard skills qualification, which will always come in useful in their careers. The following learners were awarded certificates for achieving the minimum requirements for Module 1: 1. Callan Murray 2. Shadlee Fortune 3. Mathew Thackeray 4

5 4. Divan Neethling 5. Brandon May 6. Tristan Godden The following learner was awarded a certificate for achieving the minimum requirements for Module 2: 1. Callan Murray The Elizabeth Jonsson Trophy This trophy is awarded to an Apprentice in Grade 11 who achieved the highest results in the EQASA Exams. The trophy was awarded to Callan Murray. Full Colours Academic A Black Blazer is awarded to an apprentice who received half colours academic for two consecutive years. This year Black Blazers were awarded to Tristan Godden and Callan Murray. The Racing and Equestrian Floating Trophy This trophy is awarded to an apprentice that achieves the highest aggregate. This year the trophy was awarded to Tristan Godden for 1 st place in Grade 11. GRADE 12 Certificates of merit The following apprentices were awarded certificates for achieving 75% or more in any subject: 1. Mandla Ntuli for isizulu First Additional Language 2. Craig Zackey for Life Orientation 3. Nicholas Patel for Mathematical Literacy 4. Collen Storey for Mathematical Literacy 5. Ryan Munger for Business Studies, Consumer Studies and Life Orientation. The following apprentices were awarded certificates for improved aggregate in any subject over a period of one year: 1. Bryan Claassen for Afrikaans First Additional Language and Consumer Studies 5

6 2. Collen Storey for Afrikaans First Additional Language and Mathematical Literacy 3. Chantelle Olwage for Consumer Studies 4. Craig Zackey for Consumer Studies 5. Ryan Munger for English Home Language. Full Colours Academic was awarded to Ryan Munger Ryan received an embroidered black blazer for achieving academic colours for 3 consecutive years. The Proxime Accessit Award This award goes to an apprentice in Grade 12 who achieves the second highest academic results that is the runner up to the Dux. The award went to Xavier Carstens. RIDING AND GENERAL AWARDS: 2013 The Rakesh Jeewanlall Award This award, of racing equipment, sponsored by Mr Jeewanlall, is awarded to the most wellmannered and disciplined, passionate and improved apprentice for the year. This year the award went to Collen Storey. The Robbie Thompson Award This award, a gift voucher for racing equipment to the value of R1500, sponsored by Robbie T Horseracing, is awarded to an apprentice who is voted the most popular apprentice by his colleagues. This year the award went to Mathew Thackeray. The South African Jockey Academy Ambassador Trophy This trophy, donated by Mr Chris Saunders, an ex-chairman of Gold Circle and legendary race horse owner, is awarded to an apprentice who represents the Academy nationally and internationally in a positive and professional manner. The apprentice receiving this trophy represented the Academy at international apprentice races in Qatar The award went to Donovan Dillon. 6

7 The Lindsay Family Floating Trophy This trophy has been donated by the Lindsay family in honour of two great thoroughbreds Bass Drum and Abbey Boy. It is awarded to a first year Apprentice who has shown the most riding progress during the year. This year the award went to Akshay Balloo. The Happy Chimes Trophy This trophy donated by Christopher Taylor, is named in memory of Mrs Jackie Bridel s horse Happy Chimes. It is awarded to a second year Apprentice who has shown the most riding progress during the year. This year the award went to Callan Murray. The Bennie Norton Trophy Mr and Mrs Norton donated this trophy in memory of their son, Bennie, who died tragically in 1998, during the 5 th year of his apprenticeship. Bennie came to the South African Jockey Academy in 1993 as a bright eyed and eager, young apprentice. Within his first week of training, the riding masters at the time recognized that he was a natural horseman and had the potential to be a great jockey. His career was at an all-time high, when he tragically died just after receiving the Elevation Trophy for the South African Champion Apprentice. Mr and Mrs Norton have asked that this trophy be awarded to an apprentice, who does not have the advantages of coming from a racing family, and who has achieved success against all odds. This trophy is awarded to an apprentice in his third year. The award went to Collen Storey. The Oric Pretorius Trophy for Esprit d corps This floating trophy is presented to an apprentice who has demonstrated good fellowship. The award went to Callan Murray. 7

8 The Ronald Khumalo Prize This cash prize, kindly donated by Avison and Mary Carlisle in memory of apprentice Ronald Khumalo, who passed away during It is awarded to an apprentice for who shows constant positive attitude towards owners, trainers and their peers. This special prize went to Donovan Dillon. MAJOR AWARDS Headmaster s Award This is an award given at the discretion of the headmaster. This year it goes to an apprentice who has shown courage and determination under challenging circumstances an apprentice of whom we are all proud. This year the award went to Mandla Ntuli. McDonald Trophy This trophy was presented to the Academy in 1961, by Mr WJG McDonald, then Secretary of the Durban Turf Club. It is awarded annually to an apprentice resident in KwaZulu Natal. Factors taken into account when deciding on this award are: Jockeyship Courtesy Horsemanship Co-operation Integrity Personality Striving to avoid infraction of racing rules This year the award went to Donovan Dillon. Nicky Armstrong Trophy This trophy is awarded to an apprentice who achieves the highest academic results in Grade 12. The Dux for 2013 is Ryan Munger. 8

9 Head Boy awarded with the White Blazer At the beginning of December, Donovan Dillon, an apprentice in his 4 th year and Head Boy of the Academy, was awarded the prestigious White Blazer. The White Blazer is awarded to an apprentice who has ridden 60 winners. Donovan is currently stationed at the Academy and rides mainly in races at Greyville, Clairwood and Scottsville (Pietermaritzburg). Not only is he a good rider but also a clever one. He matriculated in 2012 and was the Dux-student for that year. In February this year, Donovan Dillon represented South Africa by racing in the Qatar Apprentice International Challenge held during the Qatar International Racing Festival at Al Rayyan Racecourse in Doha, Qatar. The points he accumulated secured him the title as overall winner and the first South African apprentice jockey to win this international horse racing competition. We wish him all of the best for the future. By Marius Nel Apprentice birthday celebrated during October & November Jason Smitsdorff Anthony Andrews Julius Mariba Nicholas Patel Mandla Ntuli Donovan Dillon Mathew Thackeray José Barnes Staff birthdays celebrated during October & November Amelton Mzingelwa Lindiwe Ngwenya Raymond Mfeka Vinay Harry Wiseman Nxasonke Saras Maistry Troy Kernick Here s wishing you a happy birthday and trust that you had an awesome day!!! 9

10 Apprentice Log Positions to Date for the Current Season (as at the 30 November 2013) LOG POSITION APPRENTICE RIDES WINS PLACES STRIKE RATE % 1 Julius Mariba Keagan De Melo Craig Zackey Franklin Maleking Luyolo Mxothwa Wesley Marwing Jason Smitsdorff Collen Storey Jarryd Penny Jose Barnes Mandla Ntuli Donovan Dillon Denies Lee Girish Goomany Bryan Claassen Total Phumelela Gold Apprentice Challenge 1 st leg from January July nd leg August November 2013 Stats complied by Karla Higgs The 2 nd leg of the Phumelela Gold Apprentice Challenge kicked off during August. One Apprentice Challenge race took place during the month of October and four during November. The race in October took place at Turffontein, Johannesburg on the 12 th of October. The results are as follows: 1 st José Barnes aboard London Irish. 2 nd Craig Zackey aboard Judicial. 3 rd Collen Storey aboard Beat the Odds. 4 th Lerato Mohapi aboard Paintyourface. The first and second race in November took place at Greyville on the 5 th of November. The results are as follows: 1 st race: 1 st Keagan de Melo aboard Falconers Knot. 2 nd Nicholas Patel aboard Pearly King. 3 rd Mandla Ntuli aboard Poivre. 4 th Craig Zackey aboard Eminence day. 2 nd race: 10

11 1 st Keagan de Melo aboard Cinema Scope. 2 nd Craig Zackey aboard A P Strike. 3 rd Jose Barnes aboard Big Bird. 4 th Donovan Dillon aboard Tyler s Talent. The third race took place at the Vaal on the 9 th of November. The results are as follows: 1 st Julius Mariba aboard As You Like. 2 nd Nicholas Patel aboard stormy Tiger. 3 rd Craig Zackey aboard Moggytwoshoes. 4 th Ryan Munger aboard Rails Run. The fourth race took place at Scottsville on the 24 th of November. The results are as follows: 1 st Collen Storey aboard Big bird. 2 nd Craig Zackey aboard The Helmsman. 3 rd Ryan Munger aboard Plate of Platinum. 4 th Keagan de Melo aboard Friar Tuck. The points (second leg) to date are as follows: Total Position Apprentice Name Points 1 Keagan de Melo 35 2 Craig Zackey 32 3 Julius Mariba 27 4 José Barnes 23 5 Nicholas Patel 19 6 Ryan Munger 17 7 Bryan Claassen 16 8 Collen Storey 15 9 Akash Aucharuz Xavier Carstens 8 The points system is as follows: 1 st Place - 10 points 2 nd Place - 6 points 3 rd Place - 4 points 4 th Place - 3 points 5 th Place - 2 points 6 th Place - 1 point The final results of the challenge will be available in our next newsletter. Race riding apprentice career statistics as at the 30 November nd year apprentices NO NAME OF APPRENTICE RACE RIDES WINS PLACES 1 Wesley Marwing Callan Murray Ashik Oogur Mathew Thackeray Tristan Godden Shadlee Fortune

12 3 rd year apprentices NO NAME OF APPRENTICE RACE RIDES WINS PLACES 1 Luyolo Mxothwa Craig Zackey Collen Thabana Collen Storey Heavelon van der Hoven José Barnes Ryan Munger Nicholas Patel Wayton van Staden Divan Neethling Xavier Carstens th year apprentices NO NAME OF APPRENTICE RACE RIDES WINS PLACES 1 Donovan Dillon Bryan Claassen Franklin Maleking Lerato Mohapi Girish Goomany Jarryd Penny Mandla Ntuli th year apprentices NO NAME OF APPRENTICE RACE RIDES WINS PLACES 1 Nooresh Juglall Keagan de Melo Julius Mariba Anthony Andrews Jason Smitsdorff Denise Lee Stallone Lee Naidoo Stats compiled by Karla Higgs 12

13 Ending off with a smile The nuns at a small convent were happy to learn that an anonymous donor had left his modest estate to them. Each nun had been left R100 in cash to give away as she saw fit. Each nun announced how she would spend her bequest. Sister Catherine Ann decided to give her share to the first poor person she saw. As she said this, she looked out the window and saw a man leaning against the telephone pole across the street, and he indeed looked poor. She immediately left the convent and walked toward the man. He had obviously known better days. The good nun felt he had been sent by Heaven to receive her offering. She pressed the R100 into the man's hands and said, "Godspeed, my good man." As she left, the man called out to her, "What is your name?" Shyly, she replied, "Sister Catherine Ann." The following evening, the man returned to the convent and rang the bell. "I'd like to see Sister Catherine Ann," he said. The nun at the door answered, "I'm sorry, but I cannot disturb her right now. She's in the chapel. May I give her a message?" "Yes," said the man gleefully. "Give her this R200 and tell her Godspeed came in second at Belmont." OUR FUNDERS The South African Jockey Academy s monthly Newsletter is compiled and distributed by Marius Nel. Tel: