Champions crowned at 2025 Highveld Feature Season Awards

An atmosphere of celebration and excellence filled Turffontein Racecourse on Saturday evening as South Africa’s horseracing community gathered for the prestigious 2025 Highveld Feature Season Awards, hosted by 4Racing.

Under the theme “It’s in our Veins”, the evening honoured the standout performers both equine and human of the recent Highveld Feature season.

Against the backdrop of a beautiful Johannesburg skyline, the racecourse was transformed into a showcase of elegance, heritage, and sporting excellence. The industry’s top talent was in attendance as the much-anticipated winners were announced across various competitive categories. Hosted by horseracing veteran Nico Kritsiotis, the event paid tribute to remarkable performances, hard-earned victories, and an enduring passion for the sport.

Industry legends and rising stars alike gathered to applaud the year’s most unforgettable moments, the evening struck a perfect balance between nostalgia, recognition, and forward-looking optimism for the upcoming season.

"Tonight’s celebration is a tribute to the incredible athletes horse and human who light up our racetracks,” said 4Racing Chief Executive Officer, Patrick Duff. “The Highveld Feature season has delivered thrilling moments and world-class performances, and we are proud to honour those who’ve made it unforgettable."

2025 Highveld Feature Season Awards – Winners:

CHAMPION TWO-YEAR-OLD FILLY - GREEN DIAMOND

CHAMPION TWO-YEAR-OLD COLT/GELDING - ESTEEMED

CHAMPION THREE-YEAR-OLD FILLY - FIERY PEGASUS

CHAMPION THREE-YEAR-OLD COLT/GELDING - FIRE ATTACK

CHAMPION OLDER FILLY/MARE - WHITE PEARL

CHAMPION OLDER HORSE - WILLIAM ROBERTSON

CHAMPION SPRINTER (1000–1200m) - WILLIAM ROBERTSON

CHAMPION MILER (1400–1600m) - COSMIC SPEED

CHAMPION MIDDLE DISTANCE HORSE (1800–2000m) - FIRE ATTACK

CHAMPION STAYER (2400m+) - LEGEND OF ARTHUR

The prestigious Horse of the Season title was awarded to FIRE ATTACK, in recognition of a campaign marked by consistency, stamina, and top tier performances.

In addition to the equine accolades, the following individuals were recognised for their outstanding contributions to the season:

Champion Work Rider – Phenisile Mongqawa

Champion Apprentice – Trent Mayhew

Champion Breeder – Varsfontein Stud

Champion Owner – Drakenstein Stud (Nom: Mrs G A Rupert)

Champion Jockey – Gavin Lerena

Champion Trainer – Sean Tarry

4Racing extends warm congratulations to all the winners and thanks the broader horseracing community for a memorable Highveld season. Here’s to another year of racing excellence — because it truly is in our veins.