WORLD POOL RETURNS FOR CHAMPIONS DAY

Johannesburg, South Africa – Turffontein Racecourse is set to take centre stage once again as it hosts the second edition of the World Pool event on Champions Day, the third day of The Championships. This marks a continued collaboration between 4Racing and the Hong Kong Jockey Club, further cementing the Highveld-based racing operator’s growing footprint on the global horse racing calendar.

This year’s Champions Day promises an electrifying spectacle, bringing together top-class equine talent, world-class betting opportunities, and a vibrant festival atmosphere. The 2025 edition will feature a 12-card race meeting with a premium lineup of six World Pool races, four Grade 1 including:

• Tab Empress Club Stakes (1600m)
• Tab Computaform Sprint (1000m)
• HKJC World Pool Premier’s Champions Challenge (2000m)
• Tab SA Derby (2450m)

Additionally, the race card will showcase two Grade 2 races:

• Wilgerbosdrift Bridget Oppenheimer SA Oaks (2450m)
• Tab Hawaii Stakes (1400m)

“Following the success of our first World Pool event, we are thrilled to take Champions Day to even greater heights in 2025. Our partnership with The Hong Kong Jockey Club continues to strengthen, and this collaboration is a testament to 4Racing’s vision of positioning South African racing on a global scale. This year the World Pool will take six of the feature races from Turffontein, including the four Grade 1s and two Grade 2 races (Tab Empress Club Stakes, Tab Computaform Sprint, HKJC World Pool Premier’s Champions Challenge, Tab SA Derby, Wilgerbosdrift Bridget Oppenheimer SA Oaks, Tab Hawaii Stakes). The participation of international bettors and racing enthusiasts ensures that Turffontein remains a world-class racing venue,” said Fundi Sithebe, CEO of 4Racing.

“World Pool’s collaboration with 4Racing has been a resounding success, and we are excited to return for a second year. Champions Day will once again bring together betting markets from around the world, providing punters with an unmatched wagering experience while showcasing the exceptional quality of South African racing to an international audience. The introduction of World Pool Moment of The Day in Turffontein also marks our intent to give back to the grass roots of the racing industry, especially the grooms who are often the unsung heroes behind great equine champions,” added Sam Nati, Head of Commingling of The Hong Kong Jockey Club.

As part of the return of the World Pool to the Highveld, the Hong Kong Jockey Club has agreed to award a World Pool ‘Moment of the Day’ on Champions Day. This is an accolade that recognises an incredible performance, as well as a story of grit, determination and teamwork that embodies the spirit of World Pool.

The prize is awarded to the groom of the winning horse and is a considerable R90 000 (GBP4,000) cash prize, with the recipient automatically entering the race for the coveted World Pool ‘Moment of the Year’ title. The winner of the Moment of the Year is rewarded with a trip to racing in Hong Kong, a once-in-a-lifetime experience that celebrates the sport’s global connectivity.

For the hardworking keepers of champions behind South Africa’s top thoroughbreds, this recognition is a game-changer. Often the unsung heroes of racing, these grooms dedicate themselves to the care, conditioning, and success of the country’s finest horses. The World Pool ‘Moment of the Day’ is more than just an award - it is an opportunity to celebrate their invaluable role in the sport and offer them a life-changing international experience. With Champions Day already one of the nation’s most prestigious race days, the added honour of the World Pool initiative brings a new layer of excitement, giving these dedicated horsemen the chance to be recognised on a global stage.

Adding to top-tier horse racing – is an entertainment extravaganza designed for families, socialites, and racing enthusiasts alike. Racegoers can look forward to a vibrant floral infused atmosphere, food stalls and premium hospitality packages.

Free general admission allows all fans to experience world-class racing and entertainment, while those seeking a more elevated experience can explore a range of hospitality packages.

Book your hospitality via email at reservations@4racing.com or 011 681 1797

ENDS