Glamour at the Gallops: Fashion and fast horses heat up the Durban July preview

The runway met the racetrack on Thursday morning when punters and fashionistas enjoyed a preview of next weekend’s action at the official Hollywoodbets Durban July Gallops.

Watched by a large crowd, thoroughbreds selected for the main race on July 5 were put through their paces at the Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse, while outside the rails it was a riot of colour, culture, and creativity as designers brought the official theme, “Marvels of Mzansi,” to life.

South Africa’s vibrant soul was stitched into every seam with flair and fierce pride. From vivid interpretations of our landscapes and legends, to haute couture tributes to tradition and township flavour, the preview left onlookers excited for what’s to come.

On show at the gallops were nine powerhouse creatives from the Hollywoodbets Durban July DFF Rising Stars Collection; and all ten finalists in the Hollywoodbets Durban July Young Designer Award presented by Durban Fashion Fair. Each was a design that turned heads and stirred hearts.

Inside the rails, the overwhelming favourite for the 2025 R5-million Hollywoodbets Durban July, Eight On Eighteen, was put through his paces and appeared in the pink of condition. With big-race rider Richard Fourie in the irons, Eight On Eighteen went from the 1600m with stable companion Makazole and was held together by Fourie, doing no more than easy pace work. He reached the winning post with ears pricked and appeared to enjoy his effortless Thursday morning workout.

On the other hand, Gladatorian was called on by jockey Sean Veale to fully extend and his 400m to finish time of 22,85 seconds rounded off an impressive gallop. Trainer Stuart Ferrie has Gladatorian in a very good space and the only question mark that now remains, is will he see out the 2200m trip?

Madison Valley has no such stamina doubts and turned in one of the more eye-catching gallops when working under Gavin Lerena with stable companion Shoot The Rapids. Selukwe also produced a pleasing workout, going solo from the 1200m and the son of former “July” winner, Pomodoro, is clearly very fit.

Sadly, See It Again did not gallop as he was found to have a slightly elevated temperature, but he presented beautifully in the parade ring. Four times “July” winning jockey, Anthony Delpech, was particularly taken by On My Honour’s piece of work and believes that Glen Kotzen’s charge could be the best long-shot in the race.

Defending champion, Oriental Charm, was given a “soft” gallop on the Highveld by trainer James Crawford and the 4-year-old son of Vercingetorix will arrive in Durban on the Friday prior to race day. Likewise, the De Kock team’s Immediate Edge did not give too much away, working on the sand at Randjesfontein, but he seems very fit and looked exceptional.

Thursday was just a teaser of what’s to come on July 5, when “Africa’s Greatest Horse Racing and Social Event” transforms into a full-blown celebration of fast horses, fashion and fearless imagination.

Brace yourself, Durban. Marvels await.

IOL