Following on from the recent announcement of Cape Racing that they are to launch their own thoroughbred sales division, Cape Thoroughbred Sales (“CTS”) has decided that now would be the appropriate time to step aside and exit the sales arena.

In a media release published early on Tuesday, Chairman Chris Van Niekerk explained: “CTS was formed eleven years ago, with the aim of adding value to the South African thoroughbred racing landscape. The intended objective was achieved through the many successful sales that followed, as well as the establishment of the Cape Premier Sale in the Mother City convention centre, not only as a unique event, but as an auction on the international thoroughbred sales map. I believe that the decision by Cape Racing to form its own sales division is a positive development for racing. It is in this light, combined with our love for the game, that Bernard and I deem it appropriate to step aside at this time. Every action with the aim of creating a more viable future for our industry must be supported. I have the highest level of appreciation and gratitude for our small CTS team, and I am proud of all they have achieved.”

Added Managing Director Grant Knowles: “While there is obviously sadness to say goodbye to CTS, all racing lovers in the Cape, and probably nationwide, cannot help but be swept up in the wave of excitement and optimism that is Cape Racing today. I have no doubt that Greg Bortz and his team will show the same innovation and energy to the building of a sales company, as they have already demonstrated in other areas of the business.”

Details regarding the status of CTS’s already scheduled upcoming sales and sales races will be communicated in the days ahead. Discussions with Cape Racing have been held to ensure that the current sales and racing calendar is not negatively impacted.

CTS