Il Etait Temps, a grey gelding co-owned by South African families, secured a landmark win at the Queen Mother Champion Chase Group 1 during the Cheltenham Festival, likened to an Olympic gold in the world of National Hunt racing.
Despite a near-fatal mistake at the final fence, Il Etait Temps rallied to claim his seventh Group 1 victory over jumps, astonishing both owners and spectators alike.
South African-born England cricketer Craig Kieswetter expressed his overwhelming pride in the horse's achievement, emphasizing the immense support from the South African contingent present at the event.
Devin Heffer of Hollywood Racing, another co-owner, highlighted the significance of South African owners triumphing on such a prestigious platform, signaling the nation's competitive prowess in international racing partnerships.
The victory not only propels Il Etait Temps and his owners into the limelight but also showcases the expanding global presence of South African racing as anticipation builds for the upcoming Hollywoodbets Durban July, the country's premier racing event.
