David Abery was elated after his homebred Trippi filly October Morn had won the Gr 2 Cartier Sceptre Stakes in January this year. (Picture: Wayne Marks)
It is with deep regret that SAEHP announces the passing of its Chairman David Abery.
David was an unsung hero of South Africa’s export drive, taking over the Chairmanship of SAEHP in 2021 when SAEHP was severely struggling with fundraising to continue the export efforts.
David was instrumental in implementing the funding agreement with the Hong Kong Jockey Club and despite his own ongoing health issues worked tirelessly with the team to further the goal of the export of horses from South Africa.
David had experienced health problems in recent years, however he was recovering well from heart related issues.
SAEHP MD Adrian Todd said, “David was a true racing man, a champion of the game and a real unsung hero. The majority of people never knew just how much time and effort David put into the export drive, during his illness, we had numerous meetings and discussions in his hospital ward, he never gave in and was always there, working towards the end goal.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his partner Selina, sister Julie and family.
South Africa has lost a true patriot and I a true friend.”
David had also been doing extremely well in ownership and breeding and had a homebred Gr 1 winner last season.
He had the courage of his convictions to keep a Var filly he raced called Miss October for breeding. With the help of Avontuur Stud bought out his racing partners. Miss October’s first foal was unraced but her next two foals were the Gr 2 runner up Spring Break (Trippi) and the Gr 1 winner Tempting Fate (Master of My Fate). Her progeny have therefore become highly sought after and highly valuable. The brave decision made those many years ago reaped dividends that could not have been imagined. It culminated in a manificent moment on June 1 at Hollywoodbets Scottsville this year when the Candice Bass-Robinson-trained Trippi filly October Morn gave David and Avontuur a Gr 1 homebred winner as she stormed to victory in the Gr 1 SA Fillies Sprint.
