Greeff celebrates ‘incredible’ season

Danie Toerien

Eastern Cape trainer Alan Greeff was crowned provincial champion trainer for the 2023-24 season on Monday.

Greeff went into the eight-race meeting leading his nemesis Gavin Smith by six winners, so the latter needed to win at least seven races on the day to retain the title he won a year ago, while keeping Greeff off the scoresheet.

After the first three races were won by Jacques Strydom, Kelly Mitchley, and Tara Laing respectively, it was season over and Greeff could pop the corks.

Greeff did eventually get on the scoresheet yesterday when Sean Veale rode Lady Crusade to victory in Race 7.

“It’s really been a great season,” said Greeff in the post-race interview.

“I personally have had an incredible season thanks to my wonderful team and the owners who support me.”

The hard-working Greeff was also quick to point out that the time for celebrations is very limited.

“Well, on Friday we roll the clock back to zero when we start again.

“But it has been a great season and no-one can complain too much.”

The final tally for the top Eastern Cape trainers reads: Greeff 139, Smith 134.

Richard Fourie is the champion Eastern Cape jockey for the season.