DR NIC LABUSCHAGNE

Affectionately referred to by many as “Doc”, Dr Nic Labuschagne is one of the most loved, respected and charismatic members of South African racing with roots in the sport that go back decades and includes years in the administration and control, provincially and nationally. He was a steward and chairman of the Durban Turf Club, a member and chairman of the executive of the Jockey Club of South Africa and a director of Gold Circle.

But above all was his love of the thoroughbred and the hundreds of very close friendships he shared, and still enjoys, among all ranks of the racing community.

“I have been involved in racing for about 40 years and have been fortunate to have had in excess of 350 winners. My first trainer was great friend Tony Furness and my first horse was Peri Peri which we bought along with another horse called Johnson at the Johannesburg sales for R4 000. Peri Peri won about 14 races including the Durban Merchants and we put him to stud where he covered the mare Cosy Rosy who produced another top horse Chili Bite that won about 14 races.

“I have had a wonderful career in racing and made many wonderful friends. I have been privileged to have great friendships with trainers and my main trainers now are Michael Roberts, Dennis Drier, Alistair Gordon and Wendy Whitehead.

Dr Nic, who was awarded the Anita Akal Personality Of The Year Award at the recent KZN Racing Awards function, had three winners during the month and has had another since.

Well done Dr Nic