South African horse racing has lost one of its greatest figures. Hall of Fame trainer Ormond Ferraris died on Wednesday morning, June 10, at his retirement home in Plettenberg Bay. He was 94.

Ferraris passed away peacefully after a short illness, surrounded by his sons David and Paul, grandson Luke, granddaughter Caroline, and stepdaughters Kim and Leigh.

For more than six decades, Ferraris was the face of South African horse racing. Between 1954 and his retirement in 2019, he trained approximately 2,600 winners. That kind of consistency made him one of the country's most respected horsemen.

His record at the highest level is staggering. Ferraris won the South African Oaks a record 10 times, saddling fillies like St Just, Fast Break, Lambarina, Sabina Park and Cherry On The Top. He also won the South African Derby eight times with horses including Fine Regent, Distinctly, The Monk and Travel North.

One of his most memorable moments came in 1975 when Distinctly carried him to victory in the Durban July. That same horse also won a Derby. Ferraris added the Summer Cup in 1994 with Sizzling Sun and guided Cherry On The Top to Triple Tiara glory, cementing her place among the finest fillies in SA racing history.

His dominance earned him National Trainers' Championship titles in the 1991/92 and 1993/94 seasons.

But Ferraris wasn't just a winner. He was a passionate advocate for the sport and a dedicated supporter of the Trainers Benevolent Fund. He mentored countless people in the racing community, earning admiration for his wisdom, integrity and generosity.

Even into his nineties, Ferraris stayed involved in racing. His passion never faded.

His legacy runs through the generations. His son David built a highly successful training career in Hong Kong. Grandson Luke Ferraris has made a name for himself as an international jockey.

In 2025, Ferraris was inducted into the South African Hall of Fame — recognition for a lifetime of achievement.

Tributes have been pouring in from across the racing world. Many remember him not just for his trophies, but for his humility, kindness and commitment to the sport.

"It's with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father and grandfather, Ormond Ferraris, aged 94," his family said in a statement. "He passed away peacefully at his retirement home in Plettenberg Bay this morning, 10 June, after a short period of illness. He was surrounded by people he loved dearly – his sons David and Paul, grandson Luke, granddaughter Caroline and stepdaughters, Kim and Leigh."

The family has asked that, instead of flowers, well-wishers consider donating to the Highveld Horse Care Unit at www.horsecare.org.za.

The funeral will be private. Details of a memorial service will be announced later.

Ferraris' death marks the end of an era in South African horse racing. But his legacy — as a champion trainer, mentor and ambassador — will last for generations.