Tragedy at Vaal Racecourse: Veteran Horse Trainer Jannie Borman Murdered
The South African horseracing community is in mourning following the shocking murder of veteran trainer Jannie Borman. Borman, 73, was killed on a Saturday evening at the Vaal Training Centre, leaving a void in a sport he dedicated his life to.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the racing world, prompting tributes to a man described as a “colourful person” who lived for his horses. Police have since taken action, leading to an arrest in connection with the killing.
Arrest Made Following Fatal Dispute
According to News24, a 55-year-old employee of Borman has been arrested. The suspect allegedly assaulted and killed the trainer following an argument regarding race winnings. The tragedy has left colleagues and friends in a state of grief and disbelief.
A Lifetime of Dedication to the Turf
Jannie Borman’s journey in horse racing was lifelong and deeply rooted. He began his training career on a farm alongside his father, Henry Sham, eventually securing his own trainers’ licence in 1997. Starting with 18 horses at the old Bloemfontein track, he operated alongside prominent figures such as Mike McLachlan, Kevin Coetzee and Bertie van der Merwe.
During his early years, Borman received support from Faan Mynhardt and the late Stefaan Botha. He found early success with horses including Enchanted Angel (Dolpour) and Pounds For Pennies (Shalford), both of which secured several victories.
Expansion and Success in Kimberley
In 2005, Borman transitioned his operations to Kimberley. During this period, he managed up to 40 horses and became a frequent presence in the winner’s enclosure. Borman previously noted that this was a flourishing time for Kimberley racing, allowing for a healthy distribution of horses among trainers.
The Legacy of Beach Flight
One of Borman’s most notable achievements was the success of Beach Flight (Jet Master). Purchased for just R5,000 at the 2010 pre-July Sale in KZN, the colt was initially considered a reject and was known to be troublesome. However, Beach Flight proved his talent by winning four consecutive races at Flamingo Park between March and May 2011.
The horse’s trajectory peaked on May 19, 2011, when he traveled to the Vaal and won by five lengths under jockey Marthinus Mienie. In total, Beach Flight won seven of his 15 starts.
Personal Life and Final Years
Beyond the stables, Borman was known for his diverse interests. His wife, Emmie Lensley, shared with the Sporting Post that he was a man of many passions, including baking and playing rugby for the Griquas.
Following the closure of Flamingo Park, Borman moved his operations to the Vaal shortly before the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite losing some patrons and horses during that period, he remained in the game out of a pure love for the sport and his animals, maintaining a happy stable until his death.
Key Takeaways
- Victim: Jannie Borman, 73, veteran horse racing trainer.
- Incident: Murdered at the Vaal Training Centre on a Saturday evening.
- Suspect: A 55-year-old employee arrested over a dispute regarding race winnings.
- Career Highlight: Trained Beach Flight, who won 7 of 15 starts.
- Background: Former Griquas rugby player and lifelong trainer who started his own license in 1997.
Conclusion
The loss of Jannie Borman is a significant blow to the South African racing community. From his humble beginnings in Bloemfontein to his success in Kimberley and his final years at the Vaal, Borman’s career was defined by a genuine passion for his horses. As the legal process unfolds for the arrested suspect, the racing world remembers a man who truly lived for the game.
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