New Parade Ring Access Controls

February 2026

4Racing, together with the ROA, will be trialling new parade ring access controls aimed at enhancing the raceday experience for owners and their guests.

These measures will come into effect from Saturday, 7 February, and will apply to all meetings during the trial period.

⸻

Parade Ring Access – Accreditation Required

To enter the parade ring, all owners and guests must have some form of valid accreditation. This may be permanent accreditation (a badge) or temporary accreditation (a wristband).

The following badges, all of which must be up to date for the 2025/2026 racing season, will grant access:

• ROA Member and Guest Badges, including Life Member Badges

• NHRA Owner Badges

• Race Coast Owner and Guest Badges

Where permanent accreditation is not available, a Parade Ring wristband must be obtained for access on the day.

The guiding principle is simple: accreditation is required, whether permanent or temporary, in order to gain access to the parade ring.

⸻

On-the-Day Wristband Collection

Two ROA representatives will be stationed between the Parade Ring entrance and the Champagne Lounge to assist with wristband distribution.

Owners and guests are kindly requested to look out for Laiken or Catherine, who will be on hand to assist.

Laiken Martin

Catherine Philips

⸻

Pre-arranging Wristbands (Including Private Suite Holders)

Owners and private suite holders will also have the opportunity to pre-arrange parade ring wristbands for their guests in advance, ensuring smooth and efficient access on raceday.

To pre-arrange wristbands, please contact the ROA offices by calling 011 683 3220 or emailing info@racehorseowners.co.za.

You may also WhatsApp us on 079 396 9348.

⸻

Why These Measures Are Being Introduced

These trials are being introduced to ensure a better, more controlled and more enjoyable parade ring experience for all stakeholders.

Specifically, the access controls aim to:

• Reduce congestion and overcrowding in the parade ring

• Ensure owners and their guests can comfortably view and enjoy their horses

• Improve safety, movement and overall presentation

Behind the scenes, the ROA continues to work closely with 4Racing to enhance and elevate the owner experience, particularly on raceday. As part of this collaboration, members will also notice clearer expectations around winners’ enclosure etiquette in due course.

⸻

Parade Ring Dress Code

Members are reminded that a smart dress code applies in the parade ring.

Men

• Collared or golf shirts (no jacket required). T-shirts permitted with a jacket.

• Long pants (trousers or smart jeans) and closed shoes or smart sneakers.

• Board shorts, flip flops, tracksuits and vests are not permitted.

Women

• Dresses or ensembles are recommended.

• Trousers, smart jeans, or dress shorts permitted.

• Heels, wedges, smart sandals, or smart sneakers.

• Board shorts, flip flops, tracksuits and vests are not permitted.

Children

• Children under 16 must be accompanied by an accredited adult and must adhere to the dress code.

Access may be politely declined where dress standards are not met.

⸻

Looking Ahead

We are excited about the year ahead and the continued improvements across our venues, all aimed at delivering a world-class raceday experience.