A Fitting Farewell with danger DE MELO
It’s with mixed emotions that we bid farewell to our star jockey friend, Keagan De Melo, as he heads back to conquer the tracks in Hong Kong for a second time. Over the years, Keagan has showcased incredible talent and dedication on the racecourse. His journey has been nothing short of inspirational, and his departure is a bittersweet moment for us.
In true Keagan De Melo fashion, he left us with an unforgettable send-off by guiding the magnificent SAIGON SUZIE to a stunning victory at Turffontein Race 1. This particular race was a testament to Keagan’s exceptional skill and strategic racing acumen. Owned by Messrs J F & L M F Wernars and Mrs. T J Wernars, and bred by the Wilgerbosdrift & Mauritzfontein, she had proven in her second career start that she is a formidable force on the racetrack, so this win came as no surprise one start later. Well done to the team.
Saigon Suzie (Gimmethegreenlight x Bang Sue)
Keagan also kickstarted our new season last week on another Gimmethegreenlight homebred, BAKWENA, a half sister to Divine Odyssey. Keagan’s ability to connect with the horses and deliver outstanding performances has always been a hallmark of his racing career.
Bakwena (Gimmethegreenlight – Divine Right)
While we’re on the subject of homebreds and Gimmethegreenlight progeny, we would like to congratulate the Wernars family for winning the prestigious Equus Award for the 2024 Champion Two-Year-Old Colt with PROCEED last night. The successful mating was well planned by sending Explosive Kiss, the mare who is a half-sister to Second Base, to Gimmethegreenlight. This thoughtful pairing made PROCEED a full brother in blood to Second Base, who was very unfortunate not to clinch a Gr1 victory, finishing a narrow 0.75 lengths 2nd to Got The Greenlight in the 2021 Premiers Champion Challenge. Congratulations to all the other other Equus Awards 2024 winners and their teams.
And to Keagan De Melo, a giant in the world of horse racing – your journey continues to inspire us all. We will be cheering for you as you forge ahead and continue to shine brightly on the international stage in Hong Kong. Best of luck, Keagan!