Sadha Naidoo, a veteran leader with a strong background in tourism and hospitality, has been appointed as the non-executive chairperson of both the Race Coast Western Cape and Race Coast KZN boards. This move is part of a broader effort to streamline business operations across the racing regions. Naidoo has previously served as chairperson of Tourism KZN and the Durban ICC, and has played a significant role in promoting job creation, business development, and good governance.
Naidoo's appointment was announced this week by Race Coast, a company that evolved from the merger of Gold Circle's operations in KZN and the Western Cape-based Cape Racing. The company was officially launched in May 2025, marking a new era in coastal racing in South Africa. Naidoo has also served on various public entities and has private business interests in tourism, hospitality, property, and skills development, with a focus on KZN, Mpumalanga, and the Western Cape.
According to Basil Thomas, speaking on behalf of the Hollywood Group, Naidoo's institutional knowledge and experience make him an ideal candidate for the role. Naidoo played a key role in the transition from Gold Circle to Race Coast and has been a valuable member of the board. Thomas congratulated Naidoo on his appointment, saying it is entirely appropriate that he should be given this honour.
The newly constituted uniform composition of the Race Coast Western Cape and Race Coast KwaZulu-Natal boards includes Zandile Maseko, Suren Rampersadh, Morgan Shandu, Dean Sawarjith, and Kaamilah Finch. This move is aimed at aligning the structure of the individual boards within the Race Coast regions, further solidifying the company's operations.
Naidoo's primary focus has been on job creation, business development, and governance protocols. His experience in the tourism and hospitality sectors will likely be an asset to Race Coast as the company continues to grow and develop. The company's evolution from Gold Circle's operations in KZN and the Western Cape-based Cape Racing has created a new era in coastal racing.
The appointment of Naidoo as dual board chair is seen as a strategic move to leverage his expertise and experience. His role will be crucial in guiding the company's growth and development, particularly in the KZN and Western Cape regions. The company's leadership is confident that Naidoo will bring significant value to the organization.
With Naidoo at the helm, Race Coast is poised for continued growth and success. The company's commitment to good governance and business development will likely be strengthened under his leadership. Naidoo's appointment marks a new chapter in the company's history, and his expertise will be essential in navigating the complexities of the racing industry.
Key points
- Sadha Naidoo appointed non-executive chairperson of Race Coast's KZN and Western Cape boards
- Naidoo's experience in tourism and hospitality will be an asset to Race Coast
- The appointment is part of a broader effort to streamline business operations across the racing regions
