Hollywoodbets Durban July ready to dazzle - on and off the course
Bronwyn Zulu, wearing a Kathrin Kidger outfit which is part of the Hollywoodbets Durban July Invited Designer Showcase, with Madison Valley, which is trained by Frank Robinson and will be ridden by Gavin Lerena in the Hollywoodbets Durban July on Saturday.
Image: Candiese Lenferna | Race Coast | Gameplan Media
The 128th running of the Hollywoodbets Durban July is set to unfold at the Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse this Saturday, promising an extravagant showcase of horse racing, fashion, and entertainment.
Under the Durban skies—perhaps with a hint of winter chill—the event will gather the finest fashionistas, designers, and models, alongside the country's elite trainers and jockeys, for an unforgettable day filled with excitement.
The highlight of the day, Race Seven, will take place at 4pm. Eighteen of South Africa's best middle-distance horses will compete fiercely for a share of the R5 million prize in the anticipated 2200m race.
As each horse charges down the track, the atmosphere is sure to be electric, drawing cheers from an enthusiastic crowd.
Luyolo Madlala (right), in a Kheta Thango outfit which is a finalist in the Hollywoodbets Durban July Young Designer Award competition, and Shenal Zulu in a DFF Rising Stars outfit designed by Mbasa Ndongeni, with Madison Valley
Image: Candiese Lenferna | Race Coast | Gameplan Media
This year's theme, 'Marvels of Mzansi,' serves as an artistic canvas for designers, both amateur and professional, to express their creativity on one of the most glamorous stages of the South African social calendar.
The fashion component of the event promises to be a highlight, comprising three official segments: the Durban Fashion Fair Rising Stars, the Hollywoodbets Durban July Invited Designers Showcase, and the competition for the ten Young Designer finalists. Attendees will not only witness dazzling outfits but will also learn who among the student designers will take home incredible prizes and this prestigious title.
Fashion followers can look forward to a vibrant display of style and creativity, with the public encouraged to embrace the theme through their outfits. The Hollywoodbets Durban July Raceday Fashion Awards will allow ticket holders to showcase their unique fashion choices across various categories, including classic racewear for both men and women, best dressed couple, and the standout raceday hat or fascinator.
Beyond the racetrack, the infield, marquee village, and picturesque picnic spots will transform into networking havens, where elegance meets festive fun. Attendees can indulge in culinary delights and partake in a lively atmosphere, enhanced by quality music performances and DJs providing entertainment well into the night.
Big screens will ensure that race fans won’t miss a moment of the action, ensuring a day filled with thrills and smiles.
The 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July stands as a testament to the event’s rich heritage, being one of the longest-running racing spectacles in the annals of horse racing history.
This year, everyone is promised an enchanting day filled with every facet of entertainment—from the exhilarating races to the artistry of fashion, delectable cuisine, and vibrant music—a celebration not to be missed.
IOL