OFF THE RECORD #73

Moulding Champions Anew
Inside SAJA’s Evolving Approach

The South African Jockey Academy (SAJA) at Summerveld has long been known for producing some of the world’s top jockeys, with a reputation built over decades. But in recent years, the academy has faced criticism - questions around discipline, a perceived drop in riding standards, and concerns about the direction of its training programme.

After a strategic planning session in December 2024, SAJA introduced new initiatives for 2025, including a stronger focus on mentoring and structured rider development. Early signs are promising. Accomplished horseman Gavin van Zyl has been appointed as a mentor to apprentices at Summerveld, while others - including the well-versed training veteran, Louis Goosen - have generously shared their time and industry knowledge to help young riders navigate the demands of one of the toughest working environments in the sporting world. The recent reopening of the Western Cape Academy has added further momentum.

Above: Headmaster Marius Nel with apprentices at SAJA

SAJA’s Headmaster, Marius Nel, said that all industry stakeholders contributed to the strategy meeting. “Our main objective is to guide SAJA into the future, considering both the evolving needs of the industry and the pressures of today’s more challenging and socially transparent world, compared to years past, as well as the personal pressures these young men and women face.”

Nel explained that SAJA’s academic classes take place after the morning gallops at the Summerveld training centre, from 10:30 to 14:45, during which time standard subjects are taught. As a result, there’s limited opportunity to address the crucial mental and emotional aspects within regular academic hours.

Above: Gavin van Zyl's race riding class

“We brought Gavin van Zyl on board as a mentor because of his comprehensive experience as both a jockey and a trainer. He visits the apprentices twice a week at the Academy and also makes himself available to them at race meetings which, in itself, is support they didn’t have before.”

Van Zyl said he firmly believes that jockeys, as professional sportsmen, require the same level of coaching and support as athletes in other disciplines - such as tennis players. He said: “We’re all on the same page - the riding masters Robert Moore, Martin Ball, Rocky Agrella, Nicky Roebuck, and myself. Our shared goal is to take race-riding apprentices to the next level.”

In reality, the Academy is responsible for educating a yearly intake of 12 or more young teenage boys and girls, both academically and professionally. “It’s a formidable task,” Van Zyl said. “Doctors study for nine years before they can practise independently. Lawyers take seven or more years to qualify. Meanwhile, we’re working with youngsters - really wet behind the ears - who are expected to ride in their first races after just 18 months of training. It’s a rigorous, demanding process, and they’re thrown into the deep end of a highly competitive sport.”

Van Zyl’s own mentor was the legendary champion jockey Gerald Turner. He also gained valuable insight while training and guiding apprentices who rode for him during his time as a trainer. However, he emphasised that the mentoring he provides today draws on world-class techniques and insights from some of the best jockeys globally. “I’m not trying to teach them to ride like Gavin van Zyl,” he said. “We cover a broad spectrum - race tactics, positioning, pace judgement, fitness, you name it. We watch race replays, break things down, and interact constantly. It’s a shared process.”

In light of recent disciplinary issues and overly aggressive riding among some senior professionals, Van Zyl offered a candid perspective: “A jockey has to be tough. There’s no room for weakness. When the pens open, you have to hold your own, because no one gives an inch. There’s simply too much at stake. Race riding requires shrewd tactics and real grit. Older jockeys will often try to intimidate younger riders, whether by shouting or by fighting for position. Apprentices must learn to stand their ground. We teach professional respect, that’s essential. But mental toughness is just as important. It’s all about striking the right balance.”

Van Zyl said his sessions were being well received - not just by the apprentices, but by the riding masters too. “It’s a different approach, and it’s worth noting that this is still a work in progress. But SAJA is striving for excellence, and that deserves recognition. When you reach for the stars and fall short, you’ve still aimed high, and you land in a better place than where you started.”

Above: In the lecture room with Mr Goosen

Louis Goosen has marketed his racing stable and, at times, unrelated entrepreneurial products, with notable innovation. He saw at SAJA an opportunity to give something back to the industry that has served him and his family over two generations.

Goosen hasn’t shared this publicly before, but fresh out of school in the 1970s, he completed a three-year diploma in Theology at the Trinity College of Divinity in his home town of (then) Port Elizabeth. He worked as a church youth leader, a period he remembers with great fondness. “We started a coffee bar back then, and I really enjoyed engaging with high-school kids,” he said. “Of course, the needs of the apprentices at SAJA are very different. Today’s youngsters grow up in a completely different social environment. There’s less respect for authority, perhaps, but the issues they face as teenagers or young adults are timeless and often complex.”

Goosen, whose pre-racing career also included a successful stint as a high-end car dealer, said that his study of analytical sales techniques - along with mentorship from a leading figure in the motor industry - equipped him well for various projects that followed. That foundation, he added, helped him develop the unique 'Golden Eggs' course he is now offering to SAJA apprentices.

Above: Louis Goosen hands out certificate of attendance

There are many examples of talented young riders losing their way once they leave the safety of the nest to survive on their own. The 10-week programme focuses on preparing apprentices with the essential skills and knowledge needed for long-term success in the racing industry. It covers key areas such as personal brand-building, securing and retaining race rides, managing sponsor relationships, and developing the business acumen required to navigate life as provisional taxpayers.

Goosen said: “The apprentices are taught how to ride and care for their horses, but there’s not much emphasis on basic life guidance and personal business skills. Each one of them is a brand, and they need to understand how to market themselves effectively.” As part of his motivational approach, he uses two acronyms - ‘GOYA’ (Get Off Your Arse) and ‘SOYA’ (Sit On Your Arse) - to illustrate the difference between action and inertia. “We’ve already seen the impact, including an increase in competitiveness between the individual apprentices,” he added. “Mindsets are changing. Trainers are noticing the apprentices energised and running with purpose from ring to ring during morning gallops.”

Also of huge importance, Goosen said, is focusing on what he terms ‘bouncebackability’. “We all know the racing game. It has any number of difficult personalities, heated moments, and controversy. It’s vital for young riders to learn how to take criticism on the chin, acknowledge their mistakes, and correct them. But just as important is their ability to leave any negativity behind and enter the next race meeting fresh and motivated. A good, positive attitude is key.”

It was interesting to read in the Sporting Post recently that former KZN-based apprentice Brevan Plaatjies and his claiming colleague, Sifisokuhle ‘Ncale’ Bungane, have impressed Cape trainers and owners alike since relocating to the Bloubergstrand Academy. Plaatjies said: “I must mention Mr Louis Goosen. His lectures at Summerveld have realigned our attitudes. The trainers at Milnerton have been welcoming and seem pleased to have Sifiso and I dashing from ring to ring.”

Prominent owner Jill Warner commented: “Both these special young men came and introduced themselves personally to us at the Durbanville gallops one morning – very impressive. Good luck to them both!”

With the initial 10-week course now completed, Goosen is currently midway through a follow-up three-week programme that deals with the basics of handicapping and merit ratings. “Having the knowledge to confidently discuss race terms and conditions with a trainer when phoning for a ride can only be beneficial,” he said. “I’m also working on a short refresher course that brings all the elements together, and I hope we can run the Golden Eggs programme for every new intake.”

Overall, it’s encouraging to see SAJA’s continued commitment to developing the next generation of champions. The Academy has produced a long line of world-class riders, including Michael Roberts, Jeff Lloyd, Bartie Leisher, Piere Strydom, Basil Marcus, Douglas Whyte, Anthony Delpech, Kevin Shea, Richard Fourie, and others. This proud tradition of excellence is set to continue, with a renewed emphasis on holistic development, blending technical skill, mental resilience, and professional growth.