About Us

The Directors of Classic Racing have an in-depth knowledge of the bloodstock industry amassed from years of hands-on experience in the breeding and training of Thoroughbreds, both in South Africa and abroad.

Combined with our large database of local and international connections we can offer a streamlined and informed global service to all our clients.

Andy Williams

Andy Williams is considered one of the pioneers of South African bloodstock agents. He was at the forefront of agents importing horses from Australia and the UK on behalf of his clients in the 1980’s.

Some of Andy’s most notable purchases include:

  • Devon Air – winner of the July in 1984.
  • Foveros – multiple Gr 1 winner, including the Queens Plate and “Met”. At stud, Foveros achieved even greater success, becoming South African Champion Sire no less than eight times.
  • Bush Telegraph – winner of the July in 1987.
  • Rocket Man – the Australian bred gelding raced in Singapore and Hong Kong between 2009 – 2012 for South African businessman Fred Crabbia. Rocket Man was arguably the greatest horse to have raced in Singapore and was voted Singapore Horse of the Year in 2011 and 2012. Such international acclaim went a long way in getting Rocket Man regarded as the world’s second-highest rated sprinter behind Sacred Kingdom in 2011 and wonder mare Black Caviar in 2012.

Andy’s uncanny ability to spot latent talent enables him to continue achieving a high success rate in selecting quality horses for his clients, particularly in South Africa and Australia, where he has a vast network of contacts in the racing industry.

Willie Pieters

A top showjumper in the 80’s, Willie moved to France in 1984 to work as an assistant trainer to Francois Doumen in Chantilly. During this time, he was fortunate enough to campaign with the legendary Australian bred horse Strawberry Road in Europe and the USA, whose achievements included winning the Grosser Preis von Baden in Germany and being placed in the DC International in Washington as well as the Breeders Cup in California.

In 1985 Willie returned to South Africa where he trained at Summerveld Training Centre until 2000, when he temporarily retired from racing to follow his passion for conservation. During his time as a trainer, he saddled the winners of over 500 races, including multiple Grade 1 winners, most notably the legendary Senor Santa (Champion Sprinter in 1989 & 1990, Horse of the Year in 1990 and the first equine sprinting millionaire in SA).

In 1992 Willie received an “Outstanding Achievement Award” from the Natal Owners & Trainers Association.