Major horseracing events in 2023

Fundi Sithebe

Horseracing has always been a South African sport’s staple with several world-class races and racecourses countrywide.

 Racegoers and punters from all walks of life fill the stands for some of the biggest races all around the country. The World Sports Betting SA Derby at Turffontein was the third leg of the inaugural ‘The World Sports Betting Championships’ season.

 Here is a look at some of the most popular races to save on your calendar this year:

 The Big 3:

The country’s racing events calendar contains 3 landmark events, and whether you’re a horse racing fanatic or not, spending a day at, at least one of these 3 races, will be an exhilarating experience.

1. The World Sports Betting Cape Town Met

The year has already kicked off with the Western Cape’s attraction, The World Sports Betting Cape Town Met in January, a day filled with horseracing, live performances and high fashion which was not to be missed.

2. Hollywoodbets Durban July

Next up is the Hollywoodbets Durban July on Saturday 1 July with its ‘Out of this world’ theme. Held annually on the first Saturday of July at Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse in Durban, this race has popularised horse racing in the country, serving high fashion moments to history-making jockeys, it is an iconic event. 

3. Betway Summer Cup

Closing off the Big 3 on 25 November, is my favourite, the Betway Summer Cup, held at the Turffontein Racecourse in Johannesburg. Whether it’s showing off your style in one of the hospitality areas, watching superb racing, enjoying the spectacular half-time show or a fun filled family day, the Betway Summer Cup has it all and more.

 A new addition to the South African horseracing events calendar is The World Sports Betting Championships Series.

 An exciting series of five big race days over three months at Turffontein Racecourse, kicking off in February with Guineas Day, followed by Classic Day, Derby Day, Royal Race Day and culminating in the World Sports Betting Champions Day finale at Turffontein on Saturday 29 April.

 Looking forward to the rest of the year:

• For some Winter warmth, the Cape Racing Winter Series is held in April at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth Racecourse and is well worth a turn.
• Ushering in Spring, is the Spring Spree Stakes in September, followed by the family friendly Topbet Spring Challenge in October held at Turffontein Racecourse.
• The racing fraternity will show love to the communities surrounding the iconic Turffontein Racecourse, with the Allied Steelrode Onamission Charity Mile in October as we build up to the Summer Cup.

 This year’s all-encompassing sport of horse racing is definitely one to watch for world-class racing, entertainment, fashion, and family themed events. From thoroughbred horses, trainers, jockeys punters and casual racegoers, 2023 has lots to offer to all of the stakeholders of the sport – it’s a great time to be part of horse racing!