Latest news with #Hollywoodbets
IOL News
3 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
The merger of KZN's Gold Circle and Cape Racing has birthed Race Coast.
The merger of Gold Circle's operations in KwaZulu-Natal and Cape Racing from the Western Cape has given rise to an exciting new entity known as Race Coast. Founded under the auspices of the uMhlanga-based South African sports betting company Hollywoodbets, this collaboration has been met with resounding support from the nation's leading horse trainers, who believe it represents a bright future for the sport. Prominent South African champion trainer Justin Snaith, along with the globally-renowned horse racing ambassador Mike de Kock and accomplished trainer Dean Kannemeyer, have publicly endorsed Race Coast. Their collective enthusiasm highlights a refreshing wave of optimism within the racing community. The Cape Town-based Snaith emphasised that this initiative promises not only to elevate the standards of racing but also to foster a deeper connection between the sport and its fans. He reflected on the initial success in his province of a similar initiative, RaceCape, initiated by Cape Racing and Hollywoodbets. Snaith is celebrating a half-century of KZN winter season assaults for the famous family operation. His father Chris, still a key member of their team, first raided with a string from the Cape in 1975. 'That structure has proven a tremendous success! It has not only boosted ownership and field sizes in the Western Cape but has also provided trainers with additional funding to enhance their operations. "Now we mark the historic beginnings of Race Coast, which is another generous initiative by Hollywoodbets, aimed at promoting ownership in KwaZulu-Natal and the Cape while boosting the horse population,' said at the launch of Race Coast. Snaith reminded us of the past, recalling that many feared that horse racing in South Africa might not survive after the COVID-19 pandemic. 'However, the dedicated efforts of a few individuals have not only saved the sport but have also paved the way for an exciting future. It is a future that we can shape and reinvent, making it better for all stakeholders involved. "Race Coast marks the beginning of something special for the province and the future of horse racing in South Africa. On behalf of all our owners, staff, and horses, we want to express our sincere gratitude,' he concluded. Mike de Kock, hailed as one of the great trainers of his generation, echoed this sentiment. He expressed confidence that Race Coast would invigorate South African racing and attract a new generation of enthusiasts, emphasising the intrinsic value of promoting racing as both an entertainment platform and a cultural cornerstone. De Kock, who recently joined forces with his son Mathew in a training partnership, said: 'De Kock Racing has been around for a long time, but as a new training partnership, Mathew and I are excited to be involved with the innovators behind Race Coast. "We have already seen the evidence of their vision and commitment, and we have positioned ourselves to grow with them. We look forward to what the future holds.' Three-time Hollywoodbets Durban July winning trainer Kannemeyer said a refreshing wave of enthusiasm and hope have been felt tangibly in the horse racing fraternity. 'The improvement and upliftment have been in bricks and mortar, communication, and incentives and stakes across the spectrum in the Cape, and looking at the rejuvenated Hollywoodbets Greyville landscape. It is a revelation and a passion-driven work-in-progress, in simple terms," he said. "The Hollywoodbets Team have made a difference in a short time, and one gets a very warm feeling that the sport is in good hands. We are all united under the flag of future prosperity, and, on behalf of our owners and the DKR team, I extend sincere onward and upward best wishes to Race Coast.'
The Citizen
6 days ago
- Sport
- The Citizen
Eight On Eighteen floating to July winning post
The colt is rated tops but will get weight from all his rivals. Eight On Eighteen winning the Cape Town Met at Kenilworth earlier this year. Picture: Peter Heeger/Gallo Images The phrase 'weighted win' is guaranteed to turn any punter's head. Well, if colt Eight On Eighteen competes in the Hollywoodbets Durban July in six weeks' time, he will be weighted to win – and easily at that. The Justin Snaith-trained prodigy has been given a two-point merit rating rise for his facile victory in the past weekend's Daily News 2000 – from 127 to 129. That's a giddily high number for a three-year-old horse but is justified by three Grade 1 wins in just 10 outings, with a Grade 1 second thrown in, too. It makes him the highest rated of the 48 remaining entries for the July, with five-year-old See It Again in second position on 127. MRs are for determining imposts in handicap races, but the July isn't a pure handicap; it's a 'conditions' race, with a bit of this and a bit of that in terms of make-up. Though the race rules set the top weight at 60kg, they also limit the maximum weight for three-year-olds to 57kg. Theoretically, See It Again will lug 60kg and Eight On Eighteen will have to carry only 57kg, despite his two-point higher MR. Knowledgeable Turf Talk puts this advantage at a nett 4kg. It's 'theoretically' as the line-up for the country's biggest race is a long way from being finalised. Uncertain for July Indeed, Eight On Eighteen's connections have maintained for weeks that their star is by no means a definite July runner. He is hot property value-wise – for racing in the near future and for stud purposes in the long term – and, as Snaith stated on Saturday, the July is always a rough affair with everyone involved hell-bent on getting their names into the history books. 'Committing to the July, we've had a lot of horses go wrong in the race,' said Snaith after Saturday's Daily News 2000 at Greyville in Durban. 'It's the most interesting race in South Africa as, when the starting stalls open, the jockeys completely lose their heads and their brains. Its importance, history … there's so much at play in a race like that and you also have to think about his wellbeing. It's a decision that will be made a little later, but when you have a horse of this ability it's very hard not to go for a race like that. We will put it all in and make the call.' Many a racing fan would lay short odds on owners Nick Jonsson and Johan Rupert going for it. The two gentlemen are in the game for the thrills and there's no bigger thrill than winning a July. Durban July odds In terms of laying odds, July sponsors Hollywoodbets have chopped Eight On Eighteen's big-race ante-post odds by half – from 5-1 last week to 5-2. July defending champion and second favourite Oriental Charm has eased from 6-1 to 7-1. In adjusting merit ratings after Saturday's Daily News 2000, the handicappers made runner-up Spumante Dolce their line horse, keeping her rating at 117. Okavango, who finished third, was pushed up sharply from 105 to 120, having finished 0.25 lengths behind Spumante Dolce while conceding 2.5kg in weight. Native Ruler, who finished 0.3 lengths behind Okavango, also got a big bump: 103 to 119. Little Suzie, winner of the Tote Woolavington 2000 – also for Snaith – had her rating raised from 106 to 108.
News24
27-05-2025
- Entertainment
- News24
Hollywoodbets Durban July 2025 Unveils Stellar South African Music Line-Up
Magical line-up of artists The countdown to Africa's greatest horse racing and fashion event, the Hollywoodbets Durban July, has officially begun, and this year's entertainment promises to be just as iconic as the event itself. Set to take place on Saturday, 5 July 2025, at the renowned Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse, the Hollywoodbets Durban July 2025 will feature a star-studded line-up of South Africa's most celebrated musical talent, delivering an unforgettable array of live performances and DJ sets that will electrify the crowds. In addition to Zolani Mahola singing the national anthem, the entertainment line-up includes: Mafikizolo – The multi-award-winning Afro-pop duo, known for hits like Khona and Love Potion, will bring their vibrant sound and iconic stage presence to the main stage. Lira – South Africa's 'Diva of Soul,' Lira will deliver a soulful performance blending jazz, Afro-soul, and R&B influences. Hot Water – Fusing traditional South African sounds with rock and folk, Hot Water is set to bring high-energy rhythms that will get the crowd moving. GoodLuck – Known for their dynamic mix of electronic beats and live instrumentation, GoodLuck will keep the party going with their dance-ready energy. DJ Dalootz – Known for his passionate performances and unforgettable vibes, DJ Dalootz will deliver an electrifying set to keep the energy high. Lee Cole – The singer-songwriter's emotionally charged lyrics and unique pop sound will captivate the audience with his distinctive vocal stylings. Sunset Sweatshop – This feel-good rock band, with reggae and folk influences, will bring their unique sound to the stage, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone at the racecourse. The Hollywoodbets Durban July 2025 ticket, priced at R230, grants full access to witness these incredible artists live, making top-tier talent accessible to all. An unforgettable fusion of culture and entertainment 'This year's Hollywoodbets Durban July is more than just a race — it's a full cultural experience where the public will truly feel the pulse and essence of this lifestyle event,' said Zandile Dlamini, Hollywoodbets spokesperson. 'We're thrilled to present an entertainment line-up that celebrates the best of South African music and adds another layer of magic to an already iconic event. At Hollywoodbets, we're passionate about bringing this to the public because we want to create unforgettable experiences that fans can truly enjoy.' In addition to the races and live music, attendees can expect dazzling fashion displays, gourmet hospitality experiences, and the vibrant social energy that has made the Durban July a highlight on South Africa's national calendar.
The South African
27-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The South African
Justin Snaith scratches Sail The Seas from Hollywoodbets Durban July
Top Cape trainer Justin Snaith has scratched 3-year-old Sail The Seas from the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July. No reason for the scratching was given. Snaith still holds a strong hand in the field with a number of other entrants, including current race favourite Eight On Eighteen Hollywoodbets have priced Eight On Eighteen at 5/2 in the ante-post market. The Snaith yard have not won Africa's greatest race since Belgarion do so in 2020, rounding off a hat-trick that was launched in 2018 and 2019 by the iconic Do It Again. This year's R5 million Hollywoodbets Durban July over 2 200m will take place on Saturday, 5 July at Hollywoodbets Greyville. Second declarations close at 11:00 on Monday, 9 June Final supplementary entries close at 11:00 on Tuesday, 17 June, on which date the weights will be published Final Declarations close at 11:00 on Monday, 23 June Final field and draw announcement will take place on Tuesday, 24 June The official gallops will be held on Thursday 26 June A final field of 20 horses will be carded (18 + 2 Reserves) The reserves to be scratched by 08:15 on Friday, 4 July 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.
TimesLIVE
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- TimesLIVE
DJ Tira sets the tone for this year's Durban July with Mzansi's sought-after A-listers
The countdown to the Hollywoodbets Durban July has begun and DJ Tira's Afrotainment team is gearing up for another spectacular year at the Afrotainment Marquee. On July 5, the team will bring their unique blend of style and entertainment to the event, themed 'Marvels of Mzansi'. Recently, the Palesa hit maker and the Afrotainment crew gathered at Avianto Hotel in Muldersdrift for a stunning photo shoot to kick-start their journey to the much-anticipated opulent event. DJ Tira's wife Gugu Khathi, singers Zee Nxumalo, Mawhoo, DJ Maphorisa, Ashley Ogle and Sweet Guluva, donned bright-coloured garments, setting the tone for an unforgettable event. For Gugu, the Durban July has become a cherished tradition. 'It went from an idea. From the smallest photo shoot to what we do now. It's been years, and each year, this day is the most important,' she said, highlighting the significance of the event. This year marks 14 years of DJ Tira having his Afro marquee at the Durban July and he's built a reputation for doing it bigger and better. He says this year he is taking things up a notch. 'The love and passion for what I do [is what keeps me going]. I love entertainment, I love looking good. I love being a leader. I love showing the way. And now I am showing the way for Durban July, how to dress and how to look,' Tira said. 'We always work with who's hot. When it comes to the Afrotainment shoot, we always work with whose currently trending.' Mawhoo, who will be attending the event for the first time because she usually attends the after-parties, plans to dazzle with elegance. She advises first-time attendees to put their best foot forward too. 'Look good, look nice. It's not a competition, just wear something that's going to make you feel confident and that you'll be proud of.' Ashley Ogle, also a first-timer, is excited about her appearance. 'I think of it (the event) as glam and Zodwa Wabantu. Now it's going to be Ashley Wabantu. I'm looking forward to seeing all the looks.'
