The final field for the highly anticipated 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July has been unveiled, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown at Hollywoodbets Greyville racecourse this Saturday. With a staggering R5 million prize purse on the line, the announcement has ignited a frenzy of speculation and excitement among racing enthusiasts and punters across the nation.
This year’s race promises a spectacle of high-stakes drama, featuring a blend of defending champions, formidable contenders, and rising stars. The field of 18 runners should deliver an unforgettable renewal of this iconic event.
Leading the charge is last year’s victor, Oriental Charm, who will be looking to secure a historic back-to-back win. Now under the sole guidance of trainer James Crawford, the defending champion has drawn the coveted pole position and will be partnered with jockey JP van der Merwe.
However, the path to victory will be fiercely contested. Early betting favourite Eight On Eighteen, from the powerhouse Justin Snaith stable, is a formidable challenger. With record-breaking jockey Richard Fourie in the saddle, a win for this three-year-old would be a momentous achievement. Snaith, a multiple Durban July-winning trainer, has a strong hand with three runners in the race. Including Okavango and Native Ruler.
In a dramatic turn of events See It Again, has been scratched from the race due to an abnormal blood count. Trainer Michael Roberts expressed his disappointment, stating that the decision was made in the best interest of the horse. This late-breaking news has significantly altered the landscape of the race and opened up new possibilities for other hopefuls.
Other notable runners to watch include the Mike and Mathew de Kock-trained Immediate Edge, and Dean Kannemeyer’s The Real Prince. Nathan Kotzen’s Royal Victory, a winner of both the Betway Summer Cup and the Champion’s Challenge, is another strong contender, despite a wide draw.
The Hollywoodbets Durban July is more than just a horse race; it’s a premier social and cultural event. This year’s theme, “Marvels of Mzansi,” will see a vibrant celebration of South African heritage, fashion, and music. Transforming Hollywoodbets Greyville into a hub of glamour and entertainment.
As the final preparations get underway, the excitement is palpable. With a field brimming with talent and a day packed with thrilling racing and festivities, the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July offers a truly memorable occasion. Cementing its status as “Africa’s Greatest Horseracing Event.”