Lyle Hewitson, fondly nicknamed “The Flying Apprentice” joins the ranks of Avontuur Estate-sponsored jockeys, bringing the total to four.

With highly rated and experienced jockeys like Greg Cheyne and MJ Byleveld, Champion Apprentice Callan Murray and now Lyle in the stable, this well-known Thoroughbred Stud Farm between Stellenbosch and Somerset West seems set for a successful Summer season.

“We are extremely happy with our sponsorships to date, which ensures that the Avontuur brand is exposed on tracks around the country and media outlets world-wide, linking into our successful stud business,” says Avontuur GM Pippa Mickleburgh. “Each of the jocks are ambassadors for Avontuur and we appreciate their loyalty and support hugely. The sponsorships assist with our brand building obviously, but also supports their dreams and aspirations which makes it a win-win situation for all of us,” she concludes.

Lyle Hewitson had a meteoric rise through the ranks due to many years as a work rider and a family steeped in the racing industry. “My dad was a jockey and is currently a trainer, so I grew up with horses. In Grade 7 I had my heart set on becoming a jockey, but it was only in Grade 10 that it became reality,” Lyle explains. After finishing matric at Kearsney College, Lyle was accepted at the Jockey Academy and from there it’s been a roller coaster ride towards fulfilling his dream of becoming one of SA’s best.

As Avontuur Estate is also an award-winning wine producer, it was appropriate to ask Lyle about his wine knowledge, which led to a chuckle or two. “Before visiting Avontuur for my farm induction, which will include a wine tasting with the winemaker, I’m going to study a few YouTube video’s,” he says. “At least I’ll know the difference between sweet and dry wine, red and white wine and a little bit about the winemaking process, I hope!”.

Lyle Hewitson will be sporting Avontuur branding from 1 November and the Estate hopes for many years of successful co-operation as we watch his career with interest.