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IOL News
06-07-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Young designer Andile Cele wins top honour in Hollywoodbets Durban July fashion awards
Overcome by joy, winner of the Hollywoodbets Young Designer Award Andile Cele burst into tears as the announcement was made. Image: Graham Daniel | Gameplan Media While the Hollywoodbets Durban July may be about horseracing, it plays an important role in showcasing the next generation of fashion designers. Thousands of racegoers, fashionistas, and culture lovers descended on Greyville Racecourse on Saturday for the 2025 edition of the Hollywoodbets Durban July which had the theme Marvels of Mzansi. The Hollywoodbets Durban July Young Designer Awards ended in scenes of elation and emotion as top honours went to Andile Cele, a student from uMgungundlovu TVET College. 'This is amazing. I am flabbergasted. I am excited beyond anything,' said Cele, whose design paid homage to the Ndebele culture and was inspired by iconic artist Dr Esther Mahlangu. Her lecturers, Bongumusa Bhengu and Martin John Steenkamp, were full of praise: 'From the get-go, she showed commitment and talent, always giving of her best. She is always the first one in and the last one to leave. We are so excited for her and know she will go far.' Cele walked away with a travel package to SA Fashion Week, a R70 000 bursary from the Hollywood Foundation, R10 000 in cash from Race Coast and Schweppes, and a R5 000 Gateway gift card. Second place went to Mangoba Mnguni from IGODA Incubator College, participating for the first time. 'I am so proud of my students and what they have done,' said college owner Zola Shabangu. Mnguni's Basotho-inspired design reflected personal struggles, etched into the fabric with life lines. He earned a R50 000 bursary, R3 000 in cash, and a R2 000 gift card. Mpilo Sithole from Durban University of Technology came third, collecting a R30 000 bursary, R2 000 in cash, and a R1 000 gift card. Each of the 10 finalists received R2 000 in cash, courtesy of Race Coast and Schweppes. On the race track, there was an exhilarating finish to the main race, as The Real Prince edged out favourite Eight On Eighteen in a nail-biting duel to the line in the Grade 1 R5 million showdown. Ridden by Craig Zackey and trained by Dean Kannemeyer, The Real Prince silenced doubters who questioned whether he could handle the 2200m distance. 'Where were we going to place him? The first time we tried him over a mile he won by six lengths,' said Kannemeyer. 'You have to come in at the right time with the right weight, and we got the right draw.' The win marked Kannemeyer's fourth Durban July victory and his second for owners Lady Christine Laidlaw and Khaya Stables. 'It was a plan come together,' he said. THE MERCURY
IOL News
04-07-2025
- Climate
- IOL News
Enjoy clear skies at the Hollywoodbets Durban July this weekend!
Amahle Ndlovu, wearing a Nelisiwe Dlamini design, and Luyanda Majozi in Nelly Nxumalo's interpretation ahead of the Hollywoodbets Durban July on Saturday. Image: Graham Daniel / Gameplan Media Guests attending Africa's largest horseracing event, the Hollywoodbets Durban July, at Greyville Racecourse in Durban on Saturday can enjoy clear skies and dry conditions as the South African Weather Service (SAWS) promises no rain in the forecast. Following a chilly and showery Friday morning, conditions began to improve, offering a reason to celebrate for punters, fashionistas, and others alike. SAWS forecaster Sihle Dlamini explained that the rainy spell on Friday was a remnant of a cold front that has since moved out to sea. Dlamini confirmed that there is no rain expected in Durban over the weekend. 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 However, he said that despite the favourable weather, Saturday will not be warm. 'On Saturday, we are looking at a maximum of 21 degrees Celsius during the day, with the temperature dropping to 17 degrees around 8pm and further decreasing to about 14 degrees Celsius around midnight.' The temperature will increase slightly to 22 degrees Celsius on Sunday, he said. Dlamini reassured residents that, despite the cold, there is no snow expected across the province on Saturday. 'In KZN, we are not expecting any form of rain, be it rain, showers, or snow; it's going to be clear skies. We're not even expecting clouds.' He added that there are no windy conditions expected around Durban on Saturday. However, Dlamini said that if people are travelling in the north-western parts of the province, including Ladysmith, Newcastle, Nquthu, and Vryheid, wind is expected on Friday and Saturday. As some people begin to make their way home on Sunday, Dlamini warned that there is a chance of rain in the Eastern Cape and Western Cape on Sunday. There might also be some snowfall in Lesotho on Sunday, he added. 'In KZN on Sunday, mainly for the southern parts of the province, including Margate, Ixopo, and parts of Kokstad, there may be a 30% chance of rain,' concluded Dlamini.
IOL News
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Marvels of Mzansi under starters orders
Luyolo Madlala and Bronwyn Zulu, both wearing Kathrin Kidger outfits with Gladatorian, who is running at 16/1. Gladatorian is trained by Stuart Ferrie and will be ridden by Sean Veale in the Hollywoodbets Durban July on today. Kidger will exhibit as part of the Durban July Invited Designer Showcase. Image: Candiese Lenferna | Race Coast | Gameplan Media Anita Nkonki, Se-Anne Rall and Xolile Mthembu 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 under the theme "Marvels of Mzansi", cementing its status as a highlight on Africa's social calendar. Greyville Racecourse is set to welcome approximately 45 000 people, promising both glamour and economic vitality for the City. Hotel occupancies are estimated at 80%. 'The direct spend is estimated at R278 million, with a total of R700 million contribution to the eThekwini GDP and a total number of 4 000 jobs to be created,' said eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba. This year marks the 128th running of the race, and the event is poised to dazzle both on the turf and in the fashion stakes. Eight of Eighteen is the favourite to take top honours tomorrow. All eyes will be on the three-year-old colt, trained by Justin Snaith and ridden by champion jockey Richard Fourie, as he heads into the R5 million race on the back of some impressive results. Eight of Eighteen, who comes in at 14/10 to win, came out tops at the prestigious Cape Town Met in January, and again at the SplashOut Cape Derby a month later. And for good measure, the young colt was also victorious in the Daily News 2000 in Durban. Oriental Charm, the winner from last year, is expected to give Eight of Eighteen a run for his money, coming in at 6/1, while Immediate Edge is in with a shout at 7/1. In an update, See It Again has been scratched and has been replaced by reserve Litigation. Designers, both professional and amateur, are eager to showcase their talents. The fashion component will feature three official elements: the Durban Fashion Fair Rising Stars, the Durban July Invited Designers Showcase, and the 10 finalists from the Durban July Young Designer competition. Fashion enthusiasts will have the chance to showcase their own attire. Ticket holders can enter categories such as classic race wear for men and women, best dressed couple, and the standout race day hat or fascinator. Cutting-edge automotive manufacturer Omoda has joined the celebration. It is expanding its South African presence with an all-new SUV model called the C7. It's set to be revealed at this year's race, as part of a collaboration with acclaimed fashion house Khosi Nkosi. The new vehicle will be adorned in an artistic wrap created specifically for the event. Punters attending the July will want to pack a little something warm as temperatures are expected between 13°C and 22°C. But the good news is there will be no rain. South African Weather Service forecaster, Wiseman Dlamini, said Saturday's weather is expected to be fine with a light westerly to north-westerly in the morning. "Otherwise it will be a light to moderate easterly to north-easterly wind from late afternoon," Dlamini said.
IOL News
30-06-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Glamour at the Gallops: Fashion and fast horses heat up the Durban July preview
Wearing Young Designers Queenton Mjweni's and Neliswa Gcwabaza's creations respectively are models Simphiwe Mthiyane and L'Tanya van Rooyen at the official Hollywoodbets Durban July Gallops Image: Graham Daniel / Gameplan Media The runway met the racetrack on Thursday morning when punters and fashionistas enjoyed a preview of next weekend's action at the official Hollywoodbets Durban July Gallops. Watched by a large crowd, thoroughbreds selected for the main race on July 5 were put through their paces at the Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse, while outside the rails it was a riot of colour, culture, and creativity as designers brought the official theme, 'Marvels of Mzansi,' to life. South Africa's vibrant soul was stitched into every seam with flair and fierce pride. From vivid interpretations of our landscapes and legends, to haute couture tributes to tradition and township flavour, the preview left onlookers excited for what's to come. On show at the gallops were nine powerhouse creatives from the Hollywoodbets Durban July DFF Rising Stars Collection; and all ten finalists in the Hollywoodbets Durban July Young Designer Award presented by Durban Fashion Fair. Each was a design that turned heads and stirred hearts. Inside the rails, the overwhelming favourite for the 2025 R5-million Hollywoodbets Durban July, Eight On Eighteen, was put through his paces and appeared in the pink of condition. With big-race rider Richard Fourie in the irons, Eight On Eighteen went from the 1600m with stable companion Makazole and was held together by Fourie, doing no more than easy pace work. He reached the winning post with ears pricked and appeared to enjoy his effortless Thursday morning workout. On the other hand, Gladatorian was called on by jockey Sean Veale to fully extend and his 400m to finish time of 22,85 seconds rounded off an impressive gallop. Trainer Stuart Ferrie has Gladatorian in a very good space and the only question mark that now remains, is will he see out the 2200m trip? 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 Madison Valley has no such stamina doubts and turned in one of the more eye-catching gallops when working under Gavin Lerena with stable companion Shoot The Rapids. Selukwe also produced a pleasing workout, going solo from the 1200m and the son of former 'July' winner, Pomodoro, is clearly very fit. Sadly, See It Again did not gallop as he was found to have a slightly elevated temperature, but he presented beautifully in the parade ring. Four times 'July' winning jockey, Anthony Delpech, was particularly taken by On My Honour's piece of work and believes that Glen Kotzen's charge could be the best long-shot in the race. Nokhanya Dlamini, in a Eulender Cele outfit, gets treated to a ride from rickshaw operator Vukile Gazu at the official Hollywoodbets Durban July Gallops Image: Graham Daniel / Gameplan Media
IOL News
27-06-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Hollywoodbets Durban July: A celebration of South African heritage and horse racing
Amahle Ndlovu, wearing a Nelisiwe Dlamini design, and Luyanda Majozi in Nelly Nxumalo's interpretation, get to grips with the Hollywoodbets Durban July form guide at the Hollywoodbets Durban July Gallops on Thursday Image: Graham Daniel/Gameplan Media The Hollywoodbets Durban July taking place on Saturday, July 5, is expected to attract about 45 000 race-goers. A highlight on the horse racing calendar, the Durban July, as well as other events around the city is expected to inject R690 million into the city's economy. This year's theme 'Marvels of Mzansi' celebrates South Africa's rich heritage, cultural diversity, and breathtaking landscapes, paying tribute to the nation's extraordinary achievements. Stephen Marshall, Hollywoodbets events and marketing executive, said they expect 45 000 guests, including a mix of celebrities, influencers, and high-profile dignitaries from across the country. "This year, we are especially thrilled to introduce an exclusive VIP Marquee Village, which will offer a curated, high-end experience that truly showcases the glamour, fashion, and excitement that the Hollywoodbets Durban July is renowned for. "The experience at the Hollywoodbets Durban July, at the Hollywoodbets Marquee is a celebration of style, exclusivity, and sophistication. Guests can expect a proudly South African-inspired menu featuring gourmet cuisine and premium refreshments, carefully curated to match the elegance of the day." Marshall said the VVIP marquee is situated trackside on the inner side of the Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse, offering exceptional views of the racing action. "This prime location places guests right at the heart of the event, surrounded by high fashion, entertainment, and a vibrant atmosphere. "Whether in the marquee or our equally luxurious hospitality room, every VVIP guest enjoys the same world-class experience, a true front-row seat to Africa's greatest horse racing and social event," said Marshall. 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. 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Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Among the guests on the Hollywoodbets list are Pepsi Buthelezi, Ayanda Hlubi, Khaya Zondo, Jessica Nkosi, Phupho Gumede, Sphokuhle Ntshalintshali, Nadia Jaftha, Jessica Van Heerden, Naliyani Uma, Alphi Sipho, Bheki Ndamase, Robert Marawa, Carol Tshabalala, Anthony Delpech, Odwa Ndungane, Jerry Sikhosana, Teko Modise, Brain Baloyi and Vernon Philander. The Hollywoodbets marquees will be a luxurious celebration of the Marvels of Mzansi, showcasing interpretations of South African heritage. "Expect to see rich textures like beaded detailing, paired with luxurious fabrics in golds, earthy tones, and vibrant traditional colours. Décor will feature African-inspired patterns, geometric motifs, and statement pieces including custom furnishings, greenery, and artful lighting. "From safari sophistication to modern tribal minimalism, the spaces will reflect the diversity, style, and spirit of South Africa, all wrapped in world-class elegance," said Marshall. Eden Radebe wearing Young Designer Andile Cele's interpretation of Marvels of Mzansi at the Hollywoodbets Durban July Gallops on Thursday Image: Graham Daniel/Gameplan Media The Hollywoodbets Durban July main stage will be headlined by some of South Africa's most celebrated music talent, including multi-award-winning Afro-pop duo Mafikizolo, Potion, South Africa's 'Diva of Soul' Lira, Hot Water, GoodLuck, DJ Dalootz, Lee Cole and Sunset Sweatshop. Zolani Mahola will sing the national anthem before the main race. The 10 finalists vying for the Young Designer Award will show off their designs on the day. All three elements of the Durban July fashion experience – the Hollywoodbets Durban July Young Designer Award presented by Durban Fashion Fair; Hollywoodbets Durban July Invited Designer Showcase presented by Dove; and the Hollywoodbets Durban July DFF Rising Stars Collection – will show off their interpretations of the Marvels of Mzansi fashion. According to eThekwini Municipality there will be about R278.6 million boost in direct spend and R689.4 million GDP contribution. About 4 403 jobs are expected to be created during this period. eThekwini mayor Cyril Xaba has urged everyone to celebrate the vibrant spirit of Durban as the city transforms into a hub of glamour, excitement, and world-class entertainment. 'Come and experience the thrill of the races, the stunning fashion, and the unforgettable moments that make the Durban July a must-attend event. Whether you're a punter, a horse racing enthusiast, or simply looking to enjoy a fabulous day, come and be part of this iconic celebration,' said Xaba. He said Durban is the place to be this July, where unforgettable memories are made.A line-up of events taking place around the city over the Durban July weekend include Fact Durban Rocks, Anywhere in Your City, Any Given Sunday, Mojo's July Weekend and the All White Maxi's Lifestyle Party, among others. Brett Tungay, chairperson of theFederated Hospitality Association ofSouth Africa (Fedhasa) East Coast region, said the Durban July has always been a good event for the local hospitality industry. "And with the school holidays, most establishments are reporting decent booking figures. Accommodation in Ballito on the north coast and the Drakensberg is looking good. The beginning of this year has not been good. Everyone's looking forward to the few days of good trading around the Durban July," said Tungay.
