South African owners celebrated a historic triumph at the Cheltenham Festival as Il Etait Temps, a grey gelding, clinched victory in the prestigious Queen Mother Champion Chase Group 1 race. This remarkable win marked a significant achievement for South Africa in the realm of international horse racing.
Despite facing a stumble at the final fence, Il Etait Temps rallied to cross the finish line on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, capturing his seventh Group 1 victory over jumps. Craig Kieswetter, the South African-born England international cricketer and part-owner of the triumphant horse, expressed his overwhelming pride and joy at the impressive comeback story of Il Etait Temps.
The excitement and jubilation extended to the owners from Hollywood Racing, another South African party involved in Il Etait Temps' success. Devin Heffer, the brand and communications manager of Hollywood Group, highlighted the significance of South African owners triumphing on the global stage and emphasized the growing presence of South Africa in international racing partnerships.
Il Etait Temps, Hollywood Racing's first National Hunt jump horse acquired in 2022, showcased the caliber of South African racing talent on a grand scale at the Cheltenham Festival. This victory not only underscored South Africa's prowess in the sport but also set the stage for the country's upcoming major race, the Hollywoodbets Durban July.
