As one South African packs up his training partnership in Australia to return to South Africa, another is beginning his. 

After spending six months at Robert Heathcote's Eagle Farm stables, the well-traveled Jarred Coetzee is gearing up to take on a co-training role that promises to redefine the future of the Brisbane-based operation. With decades of international experience, Coetzee has seamlessly integrated into the team, bringing a fresh perspective to Heathcote’s already successful formula. This Coetzee is the son of Kevin, now training in Malaysia, and cousin of Felix. 

The official partnership between the 38-year-old horseman and the seasoned Heathcote, 65, is expected to be formalized in early 2025. However, the pair are not waiting to make their mark. The Queensland Summer Racing Carnival looms large, with high hopes resting on the stable's standout gallopers, including Abounding, Ekaterina, Rothfire, and Prince Of Boom.

The action kicks off this weekend at Doomben, where Abounding and Ekaterina will chase black-type success in the Tattersall’s Racing Club program.

A Shared Vision for Success

While Heathcote’s resume boasts multiple Group 1 victories, including triumphs with the likes of Buffering, he remains open to new ideas—something Coetzee has capitalized on.

“Rob is unique—he’s not set in his ways and is always open to learning, even with his wealth of experience,” Coetzee explained in an interview with Racing Queensland. “With my international background, I’ve been able to bring small but impactful changes to the stable. It’s been rewarding to see those adjustments make a difference," he continued. 

Currently serving as racing manager, Coetzee is poised to step into the co-trainer role in the coming months. His extensive career has included stints as a foreman and track rider for Chris Waller, working with horses in Hong Kong, training for the China Horse Club, and spending five years with Ballarat trainer Henry Dwyer. Along the way, he has honed his skills in everything from organizational practices to owner communication.

“I’ve tried to learn from every stable I’ve worked with,” Coetzee said. “Chris Waller taught me the importance of structure and detail, while Henry Dwyer showed me how vital it is to engage with owners effectively.”

His roots in racing run deep. Coetzee’s father, Kevin, was a trainer who introduced him to the sport, and his cousin, Felix Coetzee, is a South African jockeying legend with multiple Group 1 wins to his name.

Heathcote’s Confidence in the Future

For Heathcote, the partnership is as much about long-term stability as it is about enhancing the stable's immediate success.

“He’s incredibly passionate about racing, and that’s what impresses me most,” Heathcote said. “He’s already hands-on in running the stable, and I think this partnership is the natural next step.”

Balancing his love for racing with quality family time is becoming increasingly important to Heathcote, who admits that the demands of training can take their toll.

“To enjoy racing fully, you need a balance,” Heathcote said. “I still have a burning passion for the sport, but having Coetzee alongside me allows me to focus on what I love most without burning out.”

Building a Stable Family

The Heathcote operation has long been known for its team-oriented approach, and Coetzee is quick to acknowledge the foundation built by his mentor.

“It’s like a family here,” Coetzee said. “Rob’s staff have been with him for over a decade, and that’s almost unheard of in this industry. It speaks volumes about the environment he’s created.”

On a typical Tuesday morning at Eagle Farm, the team is a well-oiled machine. Heathcote oversees the gallops from above, while Coetzee manages the stable’s daily operations, working closely with emerging talent like Ollie Peoples and a dedicated group of riders.

“Rob’s system has worked for 20 years, and I’ve learned so much from it,” Coetzee added. “At the same time, he’s allowed me to bring my ideas to the table, and together, we’re building something even stronger.”

Eyes on the Queensland Summer Carnival

With the Queensland Summer Racing Carnival underway, the Heathcote-Coetzee team is determined to make an impact.

As Heathcote looks to the future, the upcoming partnership with Coetzee offers a chance to ensure his legacy continues while embracing fresh energy and ideas. For Coetzee, it’s the culmination of years of hard work across the globe, now focused on one of Australia’s most successful racing operations.

“This is just the beginning,” Coetzee said. “The best is yet to come.”