Drew Fleming, president of the prestigious Breeders’ Cup organization, expressed his admiration for South African horse racing while attending the 2026 L’Ormarins King’s Plate at Kenilworth on Saturday. He emphasized the importance of strong, positive international ties, which stand in contrast to political rifts, noting, “It’s an honour and a privilege to be here on behalf of the Breeders’ Cup, our owners, and nominators from across the globe.”
Fleming acknowledged the burgeoning achievements in Cape Town and South Africa’s racing scene, stating, “What is happening in Cape Town and South Africa right now is just a tremendous success. We could not be more proud to have this included as part of our International Challenge Series.” He also expressed gratitude to Gaynor Rupert for her vision in supporting the event. This year’s winner, The Real Prince, will receive an invitation to compete in the prestigious Breeders’ Cup later this year, thanks to his victory in the King’s Plate.
The longstanding connection between the United States and the L’Ormarins King’s Plate underscores the rich history and tradition tied to the event, which has its roots in Victorian British royalty. The 265th renewal of the race showcased not only remarkable horses but also a crowd celebrating their heritage by dressing in traditional blue and white.
Trainer Dean Kannemeyer praised the winner, The Real Prince, whose mother, Equus Champion Broodmare Real Princess, played a significant role in his pedigree. “What a mare! A wonderful mare!” he remarked, highlighting the bloodlines that contribute to the horse’s exceptional performance. The Real Prince edged out Vaughan Marshall-trained 50-1 outsider Questioning by a mere 0.05 lengths in a thrilling finish.
Winning jockey Craig Zackey further extolled The Real Prince, describing him as “a small horse with a big heart” and declaring him “the best miler in the country.” His remarks reflect a broader sentiment of pride not only within the South African racing community but also from international observers who note the region’s growing prominence on the world stage.
This event not only showcases the excellence of horse racing in South Africa but also reinforces the potential for positive international collaboration through sports, fostering relationships that transcend political boundaries.