It is with heavy hearts that the TBA members and breeders mourn the passing of racing stalwart Kelvin Haarhoff.

Kelvin and his iconic Winners Bar have been an intrinsic part of the fabric of the TBA sales complex at Germiston.

Winners has been the favoured spot for a quick lunch and a few drinks during sales, and has very often been the site of much hilarity, karaoke and dancing well into the evening, after the sale.

Both at the TBA, and at the racecourses, Kelvin was the go-to person for help; whether you needed a case of water or whiskey, a table-cloth or towel, he’d always make a plan.

A generous man who was passionate about racing and the industry, he went out of his way to try and help anyone and everyone.

Kelvin loved to cater for the breeders, the staff and the stud grooms and he was a great supporter of the annual grooms’ soccer tournament, usually held over the National Yearling Sale.

Kelvin, Angie, and his team were in charge of the catering for the very popular and competitive soccer tournament, and the celebratory braai is always a highlight. Managing a braai for 200-odd people is no simple task but they got it done with good cheer and grace.

Kelvin leaves a legacy in Winners, with all the historical racing and sporting memorabilia collected over the years, much of which was donated by friends and supporters.

More than that though, Kelvin leaves a legacy of kindness and compassion. He will be remembered as a man who was passionate about racing, and helping anyone that he could.

Our deepest condolences to Angie and all his family. Kelvin will be sorely missed, and Winners will never be the same.

Image: Kelvin celebrates with Michael Shea in the MDK Racing Box // Mathew De Kock