Fire Attack is one of the contenders for Horse Of The Season (JC Photos)
The countdown has begun for one of the most prestigious evenings on the South African horseracing calendar — the 2025 Highveld Feature Season Awards. 4Racing is proud to unveil this year’s nominees, who have demonstrated exceptional form, tenacity and talent throughout an exciting Highveld Feature Season.
The awards ceremony will take place on Saturday, 17 May 2025, at Turffontein Racecourse in Johannesburg. The event will bring together the industry’s finest to celebrate the standout performers of the past season, from dazzling juvenile stars to proven champions. The 2025 theme “It’s in our Veins” honours the industry’s shared passion for horseracing in an evening of glamour and recognition for the best in the business.
The evening will be hosted by two of South African racing’s most esteemed voices, Clyde Basel and Nico Kritsiotis — who will serve as Masters of Ceremonies. With their deep knowledge of the sport and dynamic presence, Basel and Kritsiotis are sure to add an engaging and insightful flair to the occasion.
“This time of year, is always a highlight for us at 4Racing,” says Colin Gordon, Chief Operating Officer. “It’s an opportunity to recognise the incredible athletes, both equine and human, who’ve brought the sport to life on the Highveld tracks. These nominations are more than just names on a list; they reflect stories of hard work, resilience, and champion spirit. We extend our heartfelt congratulations and best of luck to all the nominees — your dedication continues to inspire the industry.”
2025 Highveld Feature Season Awards – Nominees
CHAMPION TWO-YEAR-OLD FILLY
- Golden Palm
- Green Diamond
- One Fine Winter
CHAMPION TWO-YEAR-OLD COLT/GELDING
- Charming Cheetah
- Esteemed
CHAMPION THREE-YEAR-OLD FILLY
- Fatal Flaw
- Fiery Pegasus
- Olivia’s Way
- Spumante Dolce
- World of Alice
CHAMPION THREE-YEAR-OLD COLT/GELDING
- Confederate
- Cosmic Speed
- Fire Attack
- Greaterix
- Legend of Arthur
CHAMPION OLDER FILLY/MARE
- Chasing Happiness
- Let’s Go Now
- Mia Moo
- White Pearl
CHAMPION OLDER HORSE
- Atticus Finch
- Main Defender
- William Robertson
CHAMPION SPRINTER (1000–1200m)
- Chasing Happiness
- Mia Moo
- William Robertson
CHAMPION MILER (1400–1600m)
- Cosmic Speed
- Fatal Flaw
- Greaterix
- Spumante Dolce
CHAMPION MIDDLE DISTANCE HORSE (1800–2000m)
- Atticus Finch
- Confederate
- Fiery Pegasus
- Fire Attack
- Olivia’s Way
CHAMPION STAYER (2400m+)
- Fiery Pegasus
- Legend of Arthur
- Taxhaven
All equine winners are then eligible for the prestigious Horse of the Season award, and we wish all nominees the best in their respective categories.
The Highveld Feature Season Awards are adjudicated by a panel of racing experts and based on a points system. The panel was chaired by Collin Gordon, with Clyde Basel and Darryl Maree completing the panel. In addition to the equine honours, the evening will also recognise human excellence in the following categories:
Champion Work Rider
Champion Apprentice
Champion Breeder
Champion Owner
Champion Jockey
Champion Trainer
The following points structure was applied:
1st 2nd 3rd
Grade 1 12 9 7
Grade 2 9 6 4
Grade 3 6 3 1
Listed 2 – –
4Racing looks forward to welcoming racing stakeholders, partners, and enthusiasts to a memorable night of celebration and industry pride. The winners will be announced live at the ceremony.
