Hollywoodbets Durban July: And then there were 27
The race for the coveted Hollywoodbets Durban July 2025 title has taken a dramatic turn with the withdrawal of SA Derby winner Legend Of Arthur, leaving only 27 contenders still in the hunt for a spot in the R5 million Grade 1 event at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Saturday, 6 July.
The final field will comprise a maximum of 18 runners plus two reserves.
Legend Of Arthur, trained by Sean Tarry and previously seen as a strong Durban July hopeful, was scratched due to a medical issue.
The three-year-old was set to be the backup ride for champion South African jockey Richard Fourie.
This latest development leaves Tarry, a two-time Durban July-winning trainer (with Pomodoro in 2012 and Heavy Metal in 2013), with just one possible runner in the shape of Litigation.
All eyes are now on Justin Snaith's highly regarded colt Eight On Eighteen, whose participation remains uncertain.
Conflicting reports have circulated in recent days regarding his fitness and intended entry. Monday, 23 June : Final declarations deadline
: Final declarations deadline Tuesday, 24 June at 11:00 : Final field announcement and barrier draw live on Gallop TV
: Final field announcement and Thursday, 26 June at 07:00 : Public gallops for KwaZulu-Natal-based horses at Hollywoodbets Greyville Gates open at 06:30 Free coffee and pastries available for attendees
: for KwaZulu-Natal-based horses at
As the excitement builds, racing fans are bracing for what promises to be another thrilling edition of South Africa's most iconic horse race. Horses remaining in contention for Hollywoodbets Durban July Horse MR Trainer Future Swing 117 Justin Snaith Immediate Edge 108 Mike / Mathew de Kock Purple Pitcher 122 Robyn Klaasen Rainbow Lorikeet 111 Candice Bass-Robinson Underworld 109 Justin Snaith Son Of Raj 119 Tony Peter The Equator (IRE) 110 Tony Peter Atticus Finch 121 Alec Laird Madison Valley 115 Frank Robinson Eight On Eighteen 129 Justin Snaith On My Honour 116 Glen Kotzen Magic Verse 113 Justin Snaith Selukwe 111 Andre Nel Confederate 118 Fabian Habib Royal Victory 125 Nathan Kotzen Beating Wings 113 Stuart Pettigrew Okavango 120 Justin Snaith Gladatorian 127 Stuart Ferrie Litigation 113 Sean Tarry Oriental Charm 127 James Crawford Pomodoro's Jet 118 James Crawford Holding Thumbs 107 Glen Kotzen Thunee Playa 104 Mano Pandaram See It Again 127 Michael Roberts Native Ruler 119 Justin Snaith My Best Shot 116 Alan Greeff The Real Prince 120 Dean Kannemeyer
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