Celebrate | Inspire | Empower
On Champions Day, Saturday, 29 March 2025, legendary horse racing trainer Ormond Arthur Ferraris was officially inducted into the South African Hall of Fame during a memorable ceremony at Turffontein Racecourse. To mark this honour, Race 5 of the day was named after him—a fitting tribute to a man who has left an indelible mark on the sport.
A Legacy Carved in Courage and Class
Born on 31 March 1932 in the small town of Wolwehoek, Ormond Ferraris devoted more than six decades to South African horse racing. Starting his journey as a young track rider under trainer George Weale, Ferraris went on to achieve an extraordinary career, training nearly 2,600 winners between 1954 and 2019.
His accolades are too many to list, but highlights include:
- 10 Oaks titles, with standout winners such as St Just, Fast Break, Lambarina, Sabina Park, and Cherry On The Top
- 8 Derby wins, including top horses like Fine Regent, Distinctly, The Monk, and Travel North
- A Triple Tiara victory with Cherry On The Top
- Two National Trainer Championships (1991/92 and 1993/94)
- 1994 Summer Cup winner Sizzling Sun
- The memorable 1975 Durban July with Distinctly
Yet, beyond his personal success, Mr Ferraris has been a guiding light to others. He mentored some of South Africa’s most respected trainers, including David Ferraris, Mike de Kock, Michael Clements, Weichong and Weiho Marwing, and Sharon Kotzen.
Even at 93, Mr Ferraris remains active as a training consultant and proudly follows the achievements of his grandson, Luke Ferraris, a successful jockey riding in Hong Kong.
He also played a pivotal role in establishing the Trainers Benevolent Fund in the 1970s—an initiative that continues to support trainers in need to this day.
A Life That Inspires
Ormond Ferraris exemplifies the very mission of the South African Hall of Fame: to celebrate South Africa’s greatest achievers, inspire with their stories, and empower talented children without resources through our Legacy Project.
“It’s a great honour for us to welcome Mr Ferraris into the Hall of Fame,” says Johnny Burger, Chairman of the South African Hall of Fame. “His love for the sport, his dedication, and the way he’s uplifted others make him a true South African legend.”
