Frankel is a favourite but nothing tops a South African winner

My earliest racing memory is listening to racing on the radio with my uncle, and watching the Durban July, one of South African racing's highlights, on TV.

The thrill of watching horses running their heart out is what makes them so special, but I became even more hooked when I had my first winner as an owner in July 2010 after my horse Clamenco won his maiden. Unfortunately he injured his tendon and had to be retired after just ten races – which included two wins and five places. He was so special that I kept him as my pet.

No one can top him, but other favourites include Frankel, Sea The Stars, Zenyatta, South African horse of the year Horse Chestnut and champion filly Ipi Tombe.