The Mad Dutchman checks in

READERS of the original freeracer.co.za will remember our article about Andre van Schaik, the South African-born “Kaaskop” – who lives a desirable life in Haarlem, Holland, where he works as a store manager when not glued to his computer betting on South African races.

Andre celebrated his 31^st birthday on Boxing Day and checked in to remind freeracer that he is still an avid supporter. He logs in every day, also to the chat forums, studies form, subscribes to the Freeracer Tipping Sheet and watches live racing on Betfair. He uses Betfair and Betting World to place his bets and makes a good income on the side.

Naturally, Andre is also a regular on the notorious Dutch night circuit. He’s only 15 minutes from Amsterdam and can’t get enough, however hard he tries. He has resumed his old habit of e-mailing photographic evidence of his seedy adventures to freeracer, most of which not suitable for this family site.

Andre was granted individual colours in South Africa in 2004, where he raced horses like Mr Petal, Dual Honour and Bush Hunter, winning 25 races. He relinquished his colours a few years ago but plans to return to racehorse ownership soon.

Andre will be holidaying in Cape Town from mid-January and readers who might stumble across the mad Dutchman are advised to be cautious. (He’s a good oke, really!)

His advice to punters: “Stick with your original choice. Don’t change your mind!”

Andre spent his birthday with Capetonian friend Chrizaan Botha, who worked as an Au Pair in Amsterdam.