RONNIE NAPIER – 1935-10-23 TO 2025-06-11

It is with immense sadness that the NHA has learnt of the passing of Mr Ronnie Napier. Ronnie passed peacefully last night, at about 21h30, at the Donald Gordon Clinic in Parktown.

Ronnie made an enormous contribution to The Jockey Club (as it was then known) as the Chairman of the Local Executive Board as well as a Head Executive Steward.   Ronnie also served as Chairman of The Jockey Club from 1990 to 1995 and up until recently served as a member of the Inquiry Review Board.  Over many decades Ronnie served the thoroughbred horseracing industry, and particularly the regulatory authority, with great dedication and integrity.  His valuable guidance and time that he dedicated to the National Horse Trust as its Chairman, demonstrated his great love for equines and the thoroughbred racehorse.  His sound knowledge and understanding of the horseracing industry was formidable.

I would like to, on behalf of the National Board Directors, Management and Staff of The National Horseracing Authority, convey our sincere condolences to Ronnie’s wife, Bev and the Napier family.

Racing has lost a true gentleman.  Ronnie Napier was an absolute stalwart of racing, and a true champion of its regulation and its integrity.  After all his years of serving in regulation of racing, he remained available with his experience and wisdom to help the NHA team and regularly attended the NHA’s Annual General Meetings.  On a personal note, I greatly appreciate his advice and support to me as NHA Chair

 Susan Rowett
 Chairperson

A true gentleman and a giant of a man. May he rest in peace in the knowledge of a great life well lived.