Robert Muir Passes Away
American property entrepreneur Robert Muir, a great friend of South African racing, has passed away. Muir, born in Salt Lake City in 1928, made his home in Boca Raton in Florida in the United States but spent much of his time in Durban. He was 89.
South African-born wife Robin was instrumental in getting him involved in South African racing and they had a home on the Berea in Durban.
Muir had a deep love for racing and the thoroughbred and has raced horses in South Africa for many years, owning some top gallopers that won major races.
They included top sprinter Cataloochee, (Gr1 Computaform Sprint, Gr1 Golden Horse Casino Sprint) and Argonaut (Gr1 Golden Horseshoe, Gr1 Premier’s Champion Stakes), Ravishing (Gr1 SA Derby) and the crack filly Jazzy, who along with along with Team Valor International and Des Scott, made her mark when exported to America, winning theGr2 Gallant Bloom Handicap at Belmont amongst others.
Muir was generous in his support of social causes in this country and donated a substantial sum to the Umhlanga College as well as supporting Project Rhino. He and Robin were one of the major contributors to the Save The Rhino raceday held at Clairwood Park in 2014 and the feature race was named in their honour, the Robert and Robin Muir King’s Cup.
In an interview on the couple’s annual visit to South Africa, he said the rhino was a very important animal and the rampant slaughter of the magnificent beast was “appalling”. As he and Robin loved the wonderful wild life of Africa “which brings us out here every year”, they were keen to support the fight for the survival of the rhino. Bill Lambert, Gold Circle’s Racing Ambassador, said Muir was an absolute gentleman and a wonderful asset to South African racing. “He was a joy to host and a pleasure to entertain.
“He had big interests in South African racing and was no doubt propelled into buying more horses by his good friend Des Scott.
“We at Gold Circle extend our sincerest condolences to Robin and the family.” Muir is survived by his wife Robin, two sons, two daughters, eight grandchildren and one great grandson.
-goldcircle.co.za
Our condolences to the Muir family on the loss of Robert Muir. His contribution towards breeding in KZN was significant and he will be missed – The KZN Breeders Club
