AS part of the ‘re-engineering’ of the business, Phumelela Gaming has appointed Patrick Davis as Racing Executive with effect from April 2019. Davis previously held this post until mid-2015 when he took up a position with Wetherbys in the UK where he has been responsible for delivering Racing Administration for 60 race courses.

Davis says that he is “delighted to be coming home.

Patrick Davis.

It has been a great experience working in the UK, aracing jurisdiction with such a strong racing culture. I am really looking forward to applying the lessons learned to Phumelela and maintaining South African Racing as a globally admired and respected racing jurisdiction.”

In making the announcement, John Stuart, CEO of Phumelela said that the total portfolio Basel currently covers is too extensive for one individual.

“To keep South African Racing at its globally recognised standard demands a dedicated resource and that is what Patrick Davis will provide”.

Among other responsibilities Davis will be tasked with forging much closer relationships with stakeholders right across the racing value chain plus a specific brief to drive transformation.

Clyde Basel, who will continue to manage the Racing Operations portfolio until Davis takes up his position in April, will remain with Phumelela and focus on growing the hospitality and eventing side of the business and driving ‘on-course attendance’.

Stuart also said “it was vital Phumelela built on the recent highly successful GBets Summer Cup to make that an even bigger event and to create similar hype and excitement at other events across the Racing year and across the country. In this regard Basel’s focus and experience will be invaluable”.— Phumelela.