The Real Prince claims victory in gripping Hollywoodbets Durban July main race
Image: Candiese Lenferna | Race Coast
The 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July at Greyville was marked by a breathtaking finish, culminating in a hard-fought victory for The Real Prince.
Ridden by Craig Zackey and trained by Dean Kannemeyer, The Real Prince triumphantly crossed the line ahead of strong challenger Eight On Eighteen, who had aimed to etch his name into the history books as the first three-year-old to win both the Gr1 WSB Cape Met and the Durban July in the same season.
As the race unfolded, anticipation mixed with tension – especially for fans familiar with The Real Prince's heritage. His full brother, Gimme A Prince, was named Champion Sprinter just two seasons prior.
Thus, questions arose regarding whether The Real Prince could sustain the grueling 2200m of the July. Yet, he resolutely answered those doubts during the race, taking on the favourite and prevailing in dramatic style.
The early pace was spearheaded by Oriental Charm, with jockey JP van der Merwe judiciously choosing to ease into the race. The tempo was measured as van der Merwe held his position, allowing the field to remain tightly bunched.
Meanwhile, Richard Fourie, aboard Eight On Eighteen, found himself shuffling through the pack, unable to achieve the preferred inside rail position.
As the runners rounded the final turn, the competition intensified. Fourie made his move around the turn, surging ahead after clearing the subway, seemingly setting himself up for a victory.
However, with Zackey maintaining a perfect position close to the rail, The Real Prince suddenly emerged as a formidable threat, gradually advancing on the outside with relentless stride.
With the finish line in sight, the race lived up to its reputational grandeur, as both competitors appeared neck-and-neck. In an electrifying culmination, The Real Prince nudged ahead, securing his place as the undisputed champion, marking famed trainer Dean Kannemeyer's fourth win in the Durban July and a second victory for Lady Christine Laidlaw and Khaya Stables.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
IOL News
a day 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 Citizen
2 days ago
- The Citizen
HONOR and Afrotainment Marquee at the Durban July
Global smart device brand HONOR has announced an exclusive partnership with the Afrotainment Marquee, promising an unmatched fusion of premium elegance, innovative technology, and lifestyle convenience at the highly anticipated 2025 Durban July. As one of Africa's most prestigious horse racing and fashion events, the Durban July attracts a blend of culture, style, and luxury, making it the perfect platform for HONOR to showcase its latest innovations in smart living. This year, the collaboration with DJ Tira's renowned Afrotainment Marquee is set to elevate the guest experience, creating a space where sophistication meets cutting-edge convenience. The Afrotainment Marquee, known for its vibrant energy, top-tier entertainment, and celebrity presence, will feature a dedicated HONOR experience zone. Guests will be treated to hands-on demonstrations of the latest HONOR devices, immersive tech activations, and stylish touchpoints that reflect the brand's commitment to innovation and design. Fred Zhou, CEO of HONOR South Africa, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership, 'We are proud to partner with Afrotainment at this year's Durban July. This marquee represents more than just luxury; it celebrates African culture, creativity, and excellence. HONOR is excited to bring cutting-edge experiences to guests, showcasing how our technology complements and enhances modern lifestyles.' DJ Tira, founder of Afrotainment, added: 'The Afrotainment Marquee has always stood for world-class entertainment and unforgettable experiences. Partnering with HONOR, a brand that shares our vision of innovation and excellence, will take this year's Durban July to the next level. We're excited to co-create a space that's both stylish and smart.' The collaboration is part of HONOR's ongoing efforts to connect with South African audiences through culture-forward moments that celebrate innovation, connectivity, and elegance. About HONOR HONOR is a leading global provider of smart devices. It is dedicated to becoming a global iconic technology brand and creating a new intelligent world for everyone through its powerful products and services. With an unwavering focus on R&D, it is committed to developing technology that empowers people around the globe to go beyond, giving them the freedom to achieve and do more. Offering a range of high-quality smartphones, tablets, laptops and wearables to suit every budget, HONOR's portfolio of innovative, premium and reliable products enable people to become a better version of themselves. FB: INS: TWITTER: YT: At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The South African
3 days ago
- The South African
Play golf with Jacob Zuma for R250k: Steal or scam?
The MK Party is offering members of the public a chance to play golf and dine with Jacob Zuma for a cool R250 000. The former president and top party management are hosting the charity day on Friday, 11 July. In a flyer posted on their X account, the MK Party announced details of their annual youth golf development event, which will take place on Friday at the Royal Durban Golf Club in Durban. Tickets to the event are priced in three packages: Bronze – R50 000 for golf and gala dinner with party MPs (like Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla or Papa Penny) Silver – R100 000 for golf and gala dinner with MK Party deputy president, John Hlophe. Gold – R250 000 for golf and gala dinner with MK Party president, Jacob Zuma. However, many social media users were unconvinced that the event was worth the pricetag, even for socialising with former president, Jacob Zuma. X user @capesocialist posted: 'What a scam lol. Golf?', while @Motlhaping_S added: 'How did you get to these amounts?'. Like her father, Jacob Zuma, Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla has also been making special appearances at various lifestyle events. Last week, the 42-year-old MK Party MP was one of the special guests at the star-studded Durban July marquee. She's also hosted parties at soccer derbies around the country. 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 latest news.
