The Hollywoodbets Durban July countdown: A celebration of culture, fashion and equine excellence
As excitement mounts, all eyes will be on the Greyville Racecourse this weekend, where the fusion of tradition, fashion, and a festive spirit will create an unforgettable experience.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
As the anticipation builds for the Hollywoodbets Durban July, this year's affair is expected to showcase a blend of tradition, innovation, and unmissable fashion flair, cementing its status as a highlight on Africa's social calendar.
Scheduled for 5 July at the Greyville Racecourse, this prestigious gathering is set to welcome approximately 45,000 attendees, promising both glamour and economic vitality for the host city of Durban.
The eThekwini municipality has been proactive in its preparations, with multidisciplinary teams diligently working to clean and enhance the precinct surrounding the racecourse.
'This included cutting grass and pruning trees as well as street sweeping. Teams consisted of officials from iTRUMP Area-Based Management, the Cleansing and Solid Waste Unit, the Metro Police, the Roads Department, and the Parks Department, as well as volunteers from Ensure Security and Ensure Ubuntu Cleaning.'
This year marks the 128th edition, and the event is poised to dazzle not only with its races but also with the vibrant theme of 'Marvels of Mzansi'.
Designers, both professional and amateur, are eager to showcase their creative talents, making this aspect of the event as thrilling as the races themselves.
It is explained that the fashion component will feature three official elements: the Durban Fashion Fair Rising Stars, the Hollywoodbets Durban July Invited Designers Showcase, and the 10 finalists from the Hollywoodbets Durban July Young Designer competition.
Renowned and emerging designers will also display their creations, while the student designers await the announcement of winners for incredible prizes and the coveted title of the year.
Fashion enthusiasts will have the chance to showcase their own attire in the Hollywoodbets Durban July Raceday Fashion Awards, while ticket holders can enter categories such as classic racewear for men and women, best dressed couple, and the standout raceday hat or fascinator, further adding an element of competition to the day.
Adding a modern flair to the cherished traditions, the cutting-edge automotive manufacturer Omoda has joined the celebration, backing renowned designer Khosi Nkosi.
The dynamic duo of Nobukhozi and Thabo Mukwevho leads the design house, which has garnered attention at Milan and Paris Fashion Weeks. Their collaboration with the brand, encapsulated in the Ndlovukazi campaign, is a tribute to African royalty and beauty, where it serves as a canvas for their innovative vision.
Shannon Gahagan, Brand and Marketing Manager for Omoda & Jaecoo South Africa, expressed pride in the partnership, stating,'Our collaboration with Khosi Nkosi is a celebration of cultural power and creative expression. Through the Ndlovukazi campaign and this bespoke Omoda C7 wrap, we're proud to honour heritage in a way that moves the story forward.'
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za
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IOL News
13 hours ago
- IOL News
Fashion and culture fusion at the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July
Naliyani Uma Govender is an ambassador for the Hollywoodbets Durban July. Image: Supplied As anticipation builds around the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July, local racegoers are ready to showcase their interpretations of this year's theme, 'Marvels of Mzansi'. The annual racing event will take place at the Greyville Racecourse on Saturday. - Naliyani Uma Govender, an entrepreneur, model and reality TV personality, said her outfit was inspired by South Africa's national treasures. 'Without giving too much away before the big reveal, I can say it is a piece of wearable art that pays homage to both my heritage and the natural beauty of our country.' Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading Govender, who is also an ambassador for the event, said she started planning her outfit about a month ago. 'I sat down with my team and discussed the theme. I didn't want to just dress to impress. I wanted to represent. Every detail, from the fabric to the makeup and hairstyling, ties back to the essence of South Africa and my identity as a proud South African Indian woman.' She said her dress was designed by William Harry de Beer of Willet Designs Couture. 'His vision aligned perfectly with mine. We began with mood boards, research on cultural symbols, and experimented with dyeing methods to get the exact look we envisioned. 'The silhouette of the dress is fluid and regal. We worked with custom-dyed fabrics flown in especially for this, using artisanal techniques to achieve the most natural, ethereal effect. The colours are soft yet striking, and everything from the structure to the texture has been calculated to express grace, power, and meaning.' She added that her dress cost about R100 000. 'It is a couture, bespoke piece with imported materials and intricate detail. It definitely falls into the luxury bracket. But for me, this look is more than just an outfit. It is an experience and a statement.' Govender said she looked forward to the event. 'The Hollywoodbets Durban July is more than just a race. It is a celebration of fashion, culture and creativity in the African context. I love how it brings people from all walks of life together in one iconic space. It is a place to be bold, expressive. 'I have been attending since my early twenties, and each year feels more exciting than the last. What keeps drawing me in is the electric energy, the mix of glamour, music, racing, and storytelling through fashion. It's where culture meets couture and now being one of the faces of the Hollywoodbets Durban July is a match made in heaven.' Govender added that she looked forward to seeing how others interpreted the theme. 'The theme is such a beautiful, open canvas. My advice for those who want to dress to the theme is to think proudly South African. In respect of accessories to elevate your look, I would say Ndebele and proudly South African designer jewellery. For makeup, be inspired by our African sunset.' Govender said it would not be the Durban July without placing a few fun bets. 'I have my eye on a couple of favourites, but I will keep that under wraps for now, maybe for luck.' Neevan Daniels Bullyraj. Image: Supplied - Neevan Daniels Bullyraj, a teacher and bridal stylist, said he decided to style himself this year. 'I believe that the true Mzansi spark dwells within yourself and you just need to channel it. Being proudly Indian and South African, I wanted to bring a bit of my Indian culture to the race course. I designed and styled my outfit from the material choice to the strategically placed motifs. I will be wearing tailored palazzo pants and a white formal vest. 'I decided to skip a cape and go for a five-metre shawl anchoring rich royal Indian heritage. The concept of royal Indian heritage stems from the Maharajas of India. The Maharajas were always draped in some of the most elaborate jewels curated in world history. I will also accessories with royal and regal Indian jewel pieces. 'I have always been told that my style is extremely unique and far from mediocre. I like to think that my lookbook is filled with only aesthetically unique pieces. The Durban July is the one event I can accelerate on this and have fun embracing a theme and fusing it with my personality and alter ego,' he said. Bullyraj said he looked forward to the fashion, networking with people from all over the country, and enjoying the glamorous atmosphere created by the event. He added he would take a few bets. 'I hope that I not only win with a good fit, but also with the right horse.' Jennifer Reddy. Image: Supplied - Jennifer Reddy, the CEO of a national chartered accountants firm, said her outfit was aligned to the theme, showcasing a chic and fashionable look that represented the country's cultural diversity. 'I will be wearing a two-piece outfit that includes my favourite colour, pink. It features a ruffled, high-waisted skirt paired with a fashionable designer top, adorned with unique cut-out, puffed sleeves. 'I always have a specific idea of what I want to wear, so choosing my outfit didn't take long. I usually visit my favourite shops to find pieces that match my vision. For this event, I purchased my outfit from The Space, a store known for selling unique pieces by African designers. The designer of my outfit is Confidence Designs,' she said. Reddy said she was excited about the event as it offered a chance to dress up and enjoy a day filled with entertainment. 'The Durban July is an event that many in South Africa eagerly anticipate. I have been attending for the last few years, and the combination of world-class racing, stunning fashion, and exhilarating entertainment makes it an event not to be missed. This year, I am particularly looking forward to celebrating our rich culture and heritage through fashion, as well as enjoying the great entertainment.' Reddy added she left the punting to her husband. 'I rarely win, however, I have heard that the favourites for this year are Eight on Eighteen and Madison Valley. I hope they perform well in the race.' Shiv Ramsander Image: Supplied - Shiv Ramsander, a music producer, DJ and event host, said it took him about a week to plan his outfit. 'Keeping the theme in mind, I tried to ensure that my coat was hero-like, while still keeping to our Mzansi culture. I will be wearing a black chino pants, white shirt and a formal black velvet coat with some detailing on it. I will complete the outfit with shiny black shoes.' Ramsander said he had been attending the event since 2019. 'It is definitely a calendar event for me. It is a day that allows me to express myself through fashion as I love dressing up. It is also an event where you get to experience many things in one place such as good vibes, trendy fashion, good food and, of course, the horse racing aspect. I am also excited as I will be performing in one of the tents at the event and will thereafter host an after-party at another venue.' Ramsander added that his bet was on Sparking Water, winner of the 2022 Hollywoodbets Durban July. 'I love a good success story and will definitely be rooting for Sparkling Water to take home the title for the second time.' TeKayha Anastasia Sukuram Image: Supplied - TeKayha Anastasia Sukuram, a marketing executive, dancer and model, said her dress was a depiction of South Africa's flora. 'I believe South Africa's flora is definitely one of the marvels of our country. I will be dressed in an elegant, yet bold floor-sweeping dress. It is a fitted silhouette with intricate beading throughout the entire dress. The rich, jewel-toned colours such as purple, orange and green in floral patterns on a black background create a beautiful effect. 'It also has attached cape sleeves which adds a touch of drama to the dress. To complete my look, I will use nude high heels and a few pieces of simple silver accessories,' she said. Sukuram said she spent about two weeks trying to find the perfect outfit. 'I wanted an outfit that goes with this year's theme. I originally purchased the dress from an evening wear boutique, but later had a lot of adjustments done and pieces added on by designer, Rishay Nohor of Rishay Nohor Studio.' Sukuram said she would attend the event for the first time. 'Growing up I watched my parents get ready to attend the Durban July. It was something that I looked forward to experiencing one day. I am now looking forward to experiencing the exhilarating atmosphere for the first time. 'I also can't wait to see the fashion and all the different ways that people have interpreted this year's theme. However, I am probably going to give the betting a skip and just soak in everything else that the event has to offer.' Denver Naicker Image: Supplied - Denver Naicker, a TV presenter and retail manager, said he was excited about this year's theme. 'I will be dressing to this year's theme, which really allows us to show off our African culture to the world. I started planning my outfit about a month ago. To match the theme, I will be wearing an 'Indian-meets-African' inspired coat.' Naicker said he looked forward to the fashion shows and meeting people. He added that he had yet to decide on which horses he would bet on. THE POST
The South African
3 days ago
- The South African
Hollywoodbets Durban July: Roll of Honour
The 129th running of Africa's greatest horse race, the Hollywoodbets Durban July, took place on Saturday, 5 July at Hollywoodbets Greyville. The Grade 1 race over 2 200m offered a prize purse of R5 million. The race – one of the most thrilling in recent memory – was won by The Real Prince. It was trainer Dean Kannemeyer's fourth win in the race, and a first victory for jockey Craig Zackey. Some of South Africa's greatest ever horses, trainers and jockeys have won the race which dates back to 1897. Take a look at the updated Roll of Honour, below … Year Winner Trainer Jockey 2025 The Real Prince D Kannemeyer C Zackey 2024 Oriental Charm B Crawford JP vd Merwe 2023 Winchester Mansion B Crawford K Matsunyane 2022 Sparkling Water M De Kock S Khumalo 2021 Kommetdieding H Crawford / M Rix G Lerena 2020 Belgarion J Snaith R Fourie 2019 Do It Again J Snaith R Fourie 2018 Do It Again J Snaith A Marcus 2017 Marinaresco C Bass-Robinson B Fayd'herbe 2016 The Conglomerate J Ramsden P Strydom 2015 Power King D Kannemeyer S Randolph 2014 Legislate J Snaith R Fourie 2013 Heavy Metal S Tarry S Khumalo 2012 Pomodoro S Tarry P Strydom 2011 Igugu M De Kock A Delpech 2010 Bold Silvano M De Kock A Delpech 2009 Big City Life G Kotzen G Cheyne =2008 Pocket Power M W Bass B Fayd'herbe =2008 Dancer's Daughter J Snaith K Shea 2007 Hunting Tower C S Laird A Marcus 2006 Eyeofthetiger D M Kannemeyer G Schlechter 2005 Dunford M W Bass A Marcus 2004 Greys Inn M De Kock A Delpech 2003 Dynasty D M Kannemeyer R Fradd 2002 Ipi Tombe M De Kock K Shea 2001 Trademark M W Bass P Strydom 2000 El Picha G Woodruff A Marcus 1999 El Picha G Woodruff R Hill 1998 Classic Flag D E Ferraris A Delpech 1997 Super Quality D E Ferraris M Roberts 1996 London News A Laird P Strydom 1995 Teal P B Shaw J Geroudis 1994 Space Walk M H Maingard R Fradd 1993 Dancing Duel A T Millard A Marcus 1992 Spanish Galliard D R Drier R Sham 1991 Flaming Rock R C Snaith K Neisius 1990 Illustrador T M Millard F Coetzee 1989 Right Prerogative T M Millard M Sutherland 1988 Royal Chalice T M Millard D Coetzee 1987 Bush Telegraph B Abercrombie G Puller 1986 Occult T M Millard B Leisher 1985 Gondolier M P Antelme W Harvey 1984 Devon Air T M Millard D Coetzee 1983 Tecla Bluff T M Millard M Sutherland 1982 Jamaican Rumba G M Thompson P Wynne 1981 Big Charles Dr L F Naude J Anderson 1980 Beau Art J Nicholson F Macaskill 1979 Over The Air P Kannemeyer G Puller 1978 Politician S Laird B Hayden 1977 Lightning Shot D G Rich D Mustard 1976 Jamaican Music R J Rixon B Abercrombie 1975 Principal Boy J Breval R Thompson 1974 Riboville G Azzie M Schoeman 1973 Yataghan S Laird B Hayden 1972 In Full Flight D Payne R Rhodes 1971 Mazarin S Laird B Hayden 1970 Court Day R T Knight C Maree 1969 Naval Escort F Rickaby A Reid 1968 Chimboraa B A Cherry D Payne =1967 Jollify F Rickaby J Gorton =1967 Sea Cottage S Laird R Sivewright 1966 Java Head S Laird H Cawcutt 1965 King Willow J Breval I Bailey 1964 Numeral G Azzie R Rhodes 1963 Colorado King S Laird R Sivewright 1962 Diza J H Gorton A Roberts 1961 Kerason S Laird G Walker 1960 Left Wing S Garrett P Cayeux 1959 Tiger Fish T Furness B Little 1958 Excise W Cawcutt H Cawcutt 1957 Migraine F J Chappell H Passmoore 1956 Spey Bridge H Amos C Buckham 1955 Pretos Crown G Azzie H Wright 1954 C'est Si Bon D Labistour J Byrnes 1953 Flash On W E Huckell J Westwater 1952 Mowgli G A Ellis B Lewis 1951 Gay Jane D Labistour V Mcmurtry 1950 Milesia Pride J Morrison B Lewis 1949 Milesia Pride J Morrison H Wright 1948 Monasterevan E Shaw C Buckham 1947 Brookhill T J H Potgieter H Wright 1946 St Pauls D Talbert H Foster 1945 St Seiriol C L Longhurst H Butler 1944 Monteith C B Clutterbuck H Berry 1943 Piccadilly Jim C E Wade H Feldman 1942 Silver Phantom E Shaw H Wright 1941 Sadri Ii S Garrett S Amos 1940 Kipling A E Cruickshank A Gorton 1939 Silver Spear L Howe H Feldman 1938 Extinguisher W Krog C Barends 1937 Ballyjamesduff J Azzie G Masterson 1936 Petersfield E Shaw L Fernandez 1935 Eccentric A Rowe G Askew 1934 Sun Tor J Angles A Rugg 1933 Legacy P C Henwood E Lariviere 1932 Findhorn E Ryan S Johnson 1931 Agrippa W Pickering R De Valle 1930 Full Dress S Garrett H Amos 1929 Gifted W Jackson G Lariviere 1928 Glen Albyn G S Weale A Herschell 1927 Hussein C E Wade G Gorton 1926 Moosme W Knapp E Jacobie 1925 Bird Of Prey W Randall I Strydom 1924 Oriel E Ryan J Lieveaux 1923 Eunomea J Russell J Otto 1922 Collet J Gard F Mcgrath 1921 Longstop G S Weale L Fernandez 1920 Pamphlet J Russell S Garrett 1919 Goldwing J Russell S Garrett 1918 Pamphlet J Russell C Bowles 1917 Fanous P R Little W Crew 1916 Margin A C Townsend W Clements 1915 Winnipeg H De Mestre R Forsyth 1914 Rhanleigh W Randall R Dine 1913 Caged Bird F Murray W Crew 1912 Lombard F Murray I Strydom 1911 Nobleman F Murray A Laird 1910 Sir Caulin F Murray E Hardy 1909 King's Favourite H De Mestre C Clark 1908 Corriecrian F Wade W Pickering 1907 Corriecrian F Wade C Yarnell 1906 Bonnie Dundee W Pickering W Pickering 1905 Chere Amie R Wootton J Mclaughlan 1904 Nymagee W Meredith W Clements 1903 Peerless John White J White 1902 Chaos W Henwood G Bowker 1901 Apollo H C Croon C Macdonald 1900 Verdant Green H C Croon C Macdonald 1899 Talma Hw Taylor J Boardman 1898 Campanajo E Murray G Skirving 1897 Campanajo E Murray R Scott Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the 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TimesLIVE
4 days ago
- TimesLIVE
Celebs turn up the glam at Durban July: Marvels of Mzansi
All eyes were on the Marvels of Mzansi as South Africa's A-list showed up and showed off at this year's Durban July. Style stars Mihlali Ndamase, Jessica Nkosi, Mohale Motaung and Zanele Potelwa brought the heat to the country's biggest horse racing day, turning fashion into a cultural celebration. However, the real VIP experience was the Weekend of Marvels hosted by Savanna Premium Dry which started with a pre-race day party at a luxurious mansion in Ballito on Friday night before moving to the Neat Speakeasy on Saturday. Forming part of the ultra-luxe Chaise Lounge marquee, the golden ticket delivered an unforgettable trackside affair for guests, including Comedian of the Year Celeste Ntuli, funnyman Mpho Popps, media personality Moshe Ndiki and the newest stars on the block, the Zama twins, Ayanda and Andile, from The Real Housewives of Durban. Watch the full roundup for the best looks, the glam and inside access to the party everyone continues to talk about.
