When this year’s winning jockey at the Hollywoodbets Durban July, S’manga Khumalo, emerged victorious with his second Durban July win, his accomplishment reminded other young and upcoming apprentice jockeys from the South African Jockey Academy (SAJA)of the rewards that lie ahead. These trainee jockeys are studying to become professional jockeys, like Khumalo, who is a former SAJA apprentice.
Siphesihle Hlengwa, who is doing his third year at the academy, explains, “My dream is to become a famous jockey, known throughout the world. I’d like to be a role model, so that my success can assist and encourage other jockeys.”
The trainee riders say that part of their daily tasks include tracking their work-riding activities. In the past, this has involved the cumbersome task of having to complete handwritten logs and then uploading these details at the end of every week.
With the help of tech company, BET Software, the apprentices can now keep track of their activities much easier, using tablets. As part of BET Software’s 67 minutes of community support on Mandela Day, the company handed over 13 tablets to them. The apprentices say that this technology will add tremendous value, as it will allow them to also monitor racing performances, and study form and replays more efficiently.
The apprentices will do all this through the newly developed Hollywood Foundation Moodle app. BET Software partnered with the Hollywood Foundation – who have been supporting the South African Jockey Academy for the last three years – by providing bursaries to apprentices, because more than 70 percent of the academy’s apprentices are unable to afford the training at the academy.
The academy embraces 21st century technology, and adopts a scientific and wholistic approach to training, and all this support goes a long way in assisting current and future apprentices.
Michael Collins, General Manager at BET Software, says, “BET Software is passionate about technology, and it is fitting that this Mandela month, we give back through education. We look forward to seeing the apprentices become world-renowned professional jockeys, and flying the South African flag high.”
SAJA apprentice, Mfanelo Zuma, adds, “I have learnt a great deal through my time at the SAJA, and these tablets can only make our work better. Thank you, BET Software.”
