Cecil Mthembu, a well-known voice and face in South African horseracing television, is retiring after close to thirty years in the industry. He turned 65 on January 12 and is retiring in accordance with policy. Despite his retirement, he plans to make himself available for ad hoc work starting in March, including potentially contributing to the Racing Today show.

Mthembu’s career in broadcasting began in the UK, where he developed a passion for horseracing and Tottenham Hotspur FC. He returned to South Africa in 1995 and was discovered by Terence Kirchner while working in the M-Net tape library. Throughout his career, he has covered major events in horseracing, including the 2008 Durban July, which he considers his most memorable race.

In 2021, Mthembu underwent treatment for prostate cancer, which is now in remission. Despite suffering a haemorrhage in his left eye and losing some vision, he remains generally healthy. He looks forward to relaxing in February before potentially contributing to future broadcasting opportunities in the horseracing industry.