Proudly sponsored for the third consecutive year by branding & audio-visual pacesetter SplashOut, the Cape Derby has been a classic fixture on the South African thoroughbred racing landscape for a century.
The 2025 renewal of the R1,5 million SplashOut Gr1 Cape Derby at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Saturday is set to provide a fitting curtain call to the Cape Racing Summer Festival Of Champions Grade 1 roster that has thrilled and entertained us over three action-packed months.
Against the festive backdrop of the 2025 SplashOut Seafood & Jazz Racing Festival, which promises an eclectic blend of the very best in live jazz music, spectacular horse racing action, and mouth-watering seafood, seven high-class sophomores, headed by the Justin Snaith-trained WSB Cape Town Met winner Eight On Eighteen, will line up at the 2000m marker at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth shortly before 16h00 on Saturday.
At stake is the coveted title of a classic that has spawned generations of champions and stallions, and boasts a proud history dating back to 1925 when the filly Desert Born won the then Western Province Derby run over 2400m.
The Drakenstein Stud-bred Eight On Eighteen will bid to become the first horse this century to achieve the Met-Cape Derby double.
Eight On Eighteen will bid to become the first horse this century to achieve the Met-Cape Derby double (Pic – Chase Liebenberg)
The nine-race programme includes an impressive undercard, headed by the Khaya Stables Gr2 Diadem Stakes and the SplashOut Gr3 Prix du Cap.
“I am proud to be a member of the SplashOut Team that has worked closely with Cape Racing and played an integral role in the extraordinary renaissance of the Hollywoodbets Kenilworth Racecourse, transforming the historic venue over the past two years,” said SplashOut General Manager Eugene Naidu, who added that they were delighted to partner in a sports and social event of the magnitude of the SplashOut Seafood & Jazz Racing Festival.
“This is our third year of sponsoring the Cape Derby and the growth of this massively popular family-friendly event has been extraordinary. Knowing that we played our part in refurbishing the stage and continue to partner with Cape Racing, is a source of immense pride for our team. We hope to see the entire community at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Saturday to soak up the sunshine and enjoy live performances by the incredible Penelope Radsma & the Cadillac String Quartet. What a day it is set to be,” concluded Naidu.
Beyond the world-class horse racing and the magic of the music, food lovers can look forward to a day filled with gourmet delights, showcasing a selection of seafood and street food favourites.
This family-friendly event also boasts a trackside market and kids’ zone with interactive games, virtual reality experiences, and fun-filled entertainment, ensuring a great time for guests of all ages.
Tickets are free. Secure yours now through Open Tickets and join us for a festival that celebrates music, food, and racing in one unforgettable experience at a venue that will take your breath away.
Gates open at 10h00 on Saturday.
The first race is off at 12h10.
- Media release by SplashOut Media on Friday, 25 February 2025.
