The picture for the R5 million Hollywoodbets Durban July became significantly clearer this week as the field was narrowed to 29 contenders following the second declaration stage on Monday. The announcement came on the heels of a thrilling weekend of racing, headlined by the Grade 1 Hollywoodbets Gold Challenge, which produced a stunning result and sent ripples through the betting markets for Africa’s greatest horse race.
The grand event, scheduled for Saturday, 6 July, at the iconic Hollywoodbets Greyville racecourse, is now firmly on the horizon. Following Monday’s declarations, only a handful of hopefuls were scratched from the initial entries. Including Master Redoute, Cape Speed, and Narina Trogon, leaving a strong contingent of the country’s elite thoroughbreds to vie for a coveted spot in the final field.
Gold Challenge Day Highlights
The Hollywoodbets Gold Challenge day delivered top-tier racing that reverberated through the Durban July conversation. In the Gr1 Gold Challenge, Dave The King stole the spotlight. Clinched a historic victory as the third back-to-back winner of the race this century. His commanding performance positions him as a formidable contender for the Durban July, with his connections buzzing about his readiness for the Greyville showdown.
Meanwhile, Green Sapphire shone in the HKJC World Pool Gr2 Tibouchina Stakes, guided to victory by trainer Sean Tarry and jockey Smanga Khumalo. While her win showcased her talent, her Durban July participation remains uncertain, as she may target alternative races. Other notable mentions include Madison Valley, a potential runner for Frank Robinson and Sid Moodley, and Dean Kannemeyer’s The Real Prince. Both still in the mix after Saturday’s action.
Several other Durban July entrants showcased their readiness in the Gold Challenge. Defending July champion Oriental Charm ran a gallant second, demonstrating his well-being and liking for the Greyville track. Closely behind was Gladatorian who finished strongly for third. Last year’s runner-up See It Again, encountered some bad luck in running but remains a top contender.
What Comes Next?
The focus now shifts to the next critical stages of the selection process. The door remains slightly ajar for late entrants with supplementary entries closing on Tuesday, 11 June. Next comes the much-anticipated publication of the weights on the same day.
Horse racing enthusiasts and punters will have a fortnight to debate the merits of the remaining runners. The final field is set to be declared on Tuesday, 25 June. Only 18 runners, with two reserves, can be selected to face the starter on the big day.
With top contenders like the Cape Town Met winner Eight On Eighteen, the consistent Royal Victory, and the ever-popular See It Again still firmly in the mix, the build-up to the 2024 Hollywoodbets Durban July promises to be as compelling as the race itself.