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.
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