ONE of SA’s top horse racing event, the Durban July has been surpassed by a million.
Comes in the Betway Summer Cup that is now R6m richer, hence aptly coined ‘Africa’s Richest Race’ horse race in the Continent.
It has been scheduled for November 30, at its pilgrimage venue- Turffontein Racecourse, Jozi.
Following the momentum of an initiative introduced in 2023, a cash award of R20 000 will be given to each groom for the main race on the day.
This was revealed at the packed, The Artistry in Sandton (co- owned by J-Something) were ex-professional soccer players and former cricket captain graced the soiree.
Backed by 2024’s theme ‘Silks in the City‘ it brings a sophisticated fashion and racing twist to the event, playing on the lively and colourful jockey silks to inspire chic fashion and dynamic experiences throughout the day.
The theme design cleverly uses the colours of the last five Summer Cup winners to spell out the word ‘SILKS’ – whilst also paying homage to the iconic Brixton Tower, as part of promoting tourism in the City of Joburg.
Talking exclusively to SLM, the vibrant 4Racing CEO, Fundi Sithebe says they’re pushing this envelope higher as international tourists look forward engaging about the culture, fashion and identity Jozi has to offer.
“We’re expecting tourists from Kenya, who will grace the event on the day, to learn and impart ideas on how to host such prestigious events in their own country. Yes, they’re on a collaboration mission and this shows the impact this race has become, not only locally but internationally,” uttered Sithebe with a broad smile, clad in lime-green designer dress.
Our relationship with Kenya will strengthen horseracing in Africa, its part of eco-system, she quipped.
On the day, top entertainers such as Mi Casa, broadcaster Zweli Mbhele, Ms Cosmo, and the FunkItUp DJs, including Chrizz Beatz and Vin Deysel, will keep guests and fans on their toes.
Jonathan Blumberg, Betway Africa, commented: “We at Betway are committed to delivering an exceptional racing experience in partnership with 4Racing. Horseracing continues to be a key area of growth for us, and we are incredibly proud to be part of the Betway Summer Cup, Gauteng’s most anticipated horseracing event and now the richest group race in Africa.”
Sithebe also boasted top brands such as SAB and Pernod Ricard, will be coming on board, with Joburg Tourism set to sign on dotted lines their partnership.
Glamour South Africa, SABC and BET Africa, also added their names to the impressive list of event partners for this year’s R6m gathering.
Asked if she’s happy with her successes since her appointment as head-honcho at 4Racing, Sithebe expounded she avoids complacency at all cost, because ‘I don’t to be caught off guard and need to keep improving the standard of horseracing in SA, especially from development side, so that those who will follow in our footsteps, should find the journey seamless’.
“I want more female jockey’s, of all races to be in the system; since we only have one in the entire country, it can’t be.”
More female executives are also needed within the horseracing sector, unfortunately, this also applies internationally, it must transform, bemoaned Sithebe.
Fashion aficionados are set to showcase their finest interpretations of this dynamic theme on the Betway Summer Cup Black Carpet, adding an extra layer of glamour to the event.
The evening also saw the reveal of the official song of the Betway Summer Cup ‘City Lights’, as part of collaboration with Universal Records artist Ricky Tyler and upcoming artist Gigi.
The likes of Lucas Radebe, Siphiwe Tshabalala, Lucky Lekgwathi, Lehlohonolo Majoro, Happy Jele, ex Protea skipper Graham Smith, and SuperSport coach Gavin Hunt, graced the media launch.
Tickets for the Summer Garden are priced at R350, including access to Turffontein, an exclusive garden-style marquee, food vendors, bars, and the after-party.
To celebrate Heritage Month, tickets are available at a 50% discount with the code ‘4Heritage’ until September 30 at Ticketpro
General Access tickets are R100, while full hospitality packages start at R2000 per person.
For those seeking an immersive experience, Circa’s inner-track marquee offers an “on-the-rail” Summer Cup experience for R4850 per person, complete with a curated menu and premium bar service.
The Summer Cup is perfect for corporate year-end parties and businesses are encouraged to book their packages soon, before hospitality areas reach capacity.
All tickets are available at Ticketpro, visit www.ticketpro.co.za
Image SLM (Pushing the ‘green’ envelope. Fundi Sithebe addressing guests at the Betway Summer Cup launch held at the ritzy Artistry, Sandton, on Wednesday evening).
