Khaya Stables Star Groom Campaign returns for the Cape Summer Festival of Racing, with cash incentives for grooms across all Graded and Listed races.
Race Coast is delighted to announce the continuation of its partnership with Khaya Stables, with the Khaya Stables Star Groom Campaign returning for the 2026/27 Cape Feature Season, commencing on 1 November 2026.
The initiative recognises and rewards the invaluable contribution made by grooms to the South African horseracing industry, acknowledging the dedication, hard work and care that goes into preparing thoroughbreds for competition.
Often working behind the scenes, grooms play an essential role in the success of every racing stable. From the early morning routines to the care and preparation of horses on race day, their commitment is fundamental to the sport.
Through the continued generosity and support of Khaya Stables, these individuals will once again have the opportunity to receive meaningful financial rewards for their efforts.
The campaign will run from 1 November 2026 to 27 February 2027, covering 36 Graded and Listed races during the Cape Feature Season at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth.
Grooms responsible for the first five horses past the post in each qualifying race will receive the following cash incentives:
1st place: R5,000
2nd place: R2,000
3rd place: R1,500
4th place: R1,000
5th place: R500
The campaign forms part of a longstanding relationship between Race Coast and Khaya Stables, whose continued involvement in Western Cape racing reflects a commitment not only to the sport itself, but also to the people who contribute to its success.
Khaya Stables will also continue its sponsorship of the Khaya Stables Diadem Stakes, further strengthening its association with one of the Western Cape’s established feature races.
Dean Sawarjith, Chief Operating Officer of Race Coast, commented, “We are extremely grateful to Khaya Stables for their continued support of this initiative. Grooms are such an important part of our industry, and while the horses, jockeys and trainers are often in the spotlight, there is an enormous amount of work that happens behind the scenes.
The Star Groom Campaign is a wonderful way of recognising that contribution and putting something meaningful directly into the hands of the people who work tirelessly to care for our horses.
It is particularly rewarding to have a partner like Khaya Stables that understands the importance of giving back to the people within the sport, and we look forward to celebrating their achievements throughout the season.”
As the Western Cape prepares for another exciting summer of racing, the initiative serves as a reminder that behind every successful racehorse is a dedicated team of people whose contribution deserves to be celebrated.
