Sadha Naidoo appointed non-executive chair of Race Coast boards

Basil Thomas welcomes streamlined operations across regions under the Hollywoodbets banner

HERMAN GIBBS
Sadha Naidoo’s appointment as Chairperson of the Race Coast boards promises to revitalise South African horse racing, aiming for unity and operational excellence.

The esteemed horse racing figure Naidoo (pictured right) steps into a pivotal role, signalling a new chapter for the Race Coast Western Cape and Race Coast KwaZulu-Natal boards amid industry transitions.

With over three decades of experience in both the private and public sectors, Naidoo’s appointment is seen as a testament to his long-standing commitment to the sport and his ability to drive operational excellence.

Previously served as Non-Executive Director for Gold Circle, overseeing its transition to the current Race Coast entity.

The restructure aims to streamline operations across regional boards under the Hollywoodbets banner.

This appointment signifies a strategic move towards enhancing cohesion within South Africa’s horse racing governance, potentially leading to more efficient operations and improved stakeholder engagement.

Naidoo has played a significant role as Chairperson of Tourism KZN and the Durban ICC, and has also served on various public entities, with his primary focus being job creation, business development and governance protocols.

His private business interests span tourism and hospitality, as well as property and skills development, with a focus on KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga and the Western Cape.

Speaking on behalf of the Hollywood Group, Basil Thomas (pictured left) congratulated Sadha Naidoo on his appointment, saying that it is entirely appropriate that he should be given this honour.

“Sadha Naidoo’s institutional knowledge is invaluable. He played an integral role in the transition from Gold Circle – and the related club structure – to Race Coast. When Hollywood acquired Gold Circle, he was invited to remain on the Board of Race Coast KwaZulu-Natal.

With the recent retirement of Greg Bortz, it makes absolute sense that Mr Naidoo assume the chairmanship of both Race Coast companies.”

The newly constituted uniform composition of the Race Coast Western Cape and Race Coast KwaZulu-Natal boards is: Sadha Naidoo (Non-Executive Chairperson), Zandile Maseko (Non- Executive), Suren Rampersadh, Morgan Shandu, Dean Sawarjith and Kaamilah Finch.