Ernie Duffield, easily the most famous racing commentator in South Africa in the past 55 years, died in Durban on Monday. His unforgettable delivery made him a household name in the country for half a century.
Duffield died in a Durban hospice after a short illness at the age of 89.
The veteran broadcaster started his career in racing as a jockey, and was apprenticed at the age of 12.
He began broadcasting in 1945 and was honoured by the Clairwood Turf Club in 1995 on the golden anniversary of his first "race call".
After retiring from commentary, he remained active in racing, as turf correspondent for The Citizen .
Ken McArthur, chief executive officer of Gold Circle Racing, said his death represented the passing of a legend.
Duffield's first wife Vivienne predeceased him and he is survived by his wife Esme, son Peter - also a commentator - and daughter June.
Funeral arrangements have not yet been finalised.