The South African horse racing fraternity is in deep mourning following the peaceful passing of Hall of Fame training legend, Ormond Ferraris. A true titan of the turf and an unparalleled master horseman, Ferraris passed away on Wednesday morning, 10 June 2026, at his retirement home in Plettenberg Bay following a brief illness. He was 94.
Surrounded by his deeply loved family—including his sons David and Paul, international jockey grandson Luke, granddaughter Caroline, and stepdaughters Kim and Leigh—Ferraris leaves behind an extraordinary 70-year legacy that shaped the very fabric of South African thoroughbred racing.
A Record-Breaking Legacy of Turf Mastery
Entering the racing world in 1949 as a young track rider under George Weale, Ferraris went on to become the first official Assistant Trainer in South African history. After obtaining his license in 1954, he embarked on a dazzling six-decade career, saddling approximately 2,600 winners before his retirement in 2019.
His historical achievements at the absolute pinnacle of the sport include:
- 10 South African Oaks Titles: A standing record featuring legendary fillies like St Just, Fast Break, Lambarina, Sabina Park, and Cherry On The Top.
- 8 South African Derby Wins: Masterminded with champions such as Fine Regent, Distinctly, The Monk, and Travel North.
- The Ultimate Crowns: Captured the iconic 1975 Durban July with Distinctly, the 1994 Summer Cup with Sizzling Sun, and steered Cherry On The Top to Triple Tiara glory in 2013.
- National Championships: Crowned Champion Trainer for the 1991/92 and 1993/94 seasons.
Beyond his glittering trophy cabinet, Ferraris was a fierce advocate for equine welfare, a passionate supporter of the Trainers Benevolent Fund, and a monumental mentor who shaped the global careers of legendary figures like Mike de Kock, Michael Clements, and his own son, David Ferraris.
In 2025, his immense life’s work culminated in an official induction into the South African Hall of Fame.
Honor a Legend: Highveld Horse Care Unit
The Ferraris family has expressed deep gratitude for the global outpouring of love and condolences. To honor his unwavering love and absolute devotion to the welfare of horses, the family has kindly requested that in lieu of flowers, cards, or traditional gifts, well-wishers consider making a financial contribution to one of South Africa’s premier equine welfare organizations:
- Donation Link: Highveld Horse Care Unit
- Funeral Details: The funeral service will remain strictly private, with details regarding a public memorial service to be communicated by the family in due course.
