Jacqueline Sparke and Xander Spies have joined the Board of the Racehorse Owners Association (ROA) in order to fill the vacancy created by the Chairman’s resignation and that of Kevin Sommerville, who departed in March 2023.

Jackie Sparke is a qualified Chartered Accountant (SA) and boasts over 33 years of experience in finance and tax. Most recently, she was the Finance Director for Mary Oppenheimer Daughters until December 2021 and retired in June 2023.

She served as a director of numerous family companies and had been with E Oppenheimer & Son (Pty) Ltd from September 2003 until 30 June 2018, when her employment contract was transferred to Mary Oppenheimer Daughters (Pty) Ltd. She was responsible for all the financial and tax affairs of over 60 entities including the services company and all other related companies, trusts and individual family members.

A well-known face in the winner’s circle and a popular owner and son of veteran Corne Spies, Xander Spies is a dynamic young figure in the South African horseracing landscape, bringing a fresh perspective and innovative strategies aimed at rejuvenating the sport for future generations.

As a qualified attorney with a deep-rooted legacy in racing, Xander represents the culmination of three generations of passion and expertise in the industry.

His grandfather, Tobie Spies, a revered trainer, laid the foundation, while his father, Corné Spies, continues to be a luminary in the field as a celebrated trainer.

At the age of 27, Xander has already carved out a notable path as a successful racehorse owner. His accomplishments in the racing world are impressive, boasting ownership stakes in several distinguished horses such as William Robertson, Van Halen, Singforafa, and Imperial Ruby. His portfolio includes two Grade 1 victories, a Grade 2 win, three Grade 3 triumphs, and a multitude of listed race successes.