With the Vodacom Durban July three weeks away, hospitality options are being booked out.
Seats in the Marquee Village are selling fast, while the more relaxed and casual picnic sites are snowballing in popularity, to the point that the event organisers have laid on new picnic site areas for the big day at Greyville Racecourse on 7 July.
In addition to the well-established Nursery, Grandstand and Saddles Enclosure picnic sites, you can now choose from a number of new picnic sites venues.
The Lakeside and some of the Grandstand Enclosure sites have all sold out, as have the Cabana sites, but the new Royal area adjacent to the finish post is still available for racing fans looking to enjoy the occasion in the centre of the action.
“This is where the Red Carpet Public Area used to be, so it is centrally located, and the only option left offering picnic sites under marquee cover in the in-field area,” said Nellie Mhlongo of Event World.
She added that there were still some picnic sites in the Saddles Enclosures, close to the secondary tunnel under the racetrack.
The picnic sites offer a variety of alternatives. The larger sites suit partiers that are planning to bring their own furniture and décor, while the smaller sites are available with basic tables and chairs, and in some cases televisions.
“Some racegoers go to extraordinary lengths to decorate and host guests at picnic sites, while others prefer a minimum-hassle approach and are happy to bring their own food and drink to their picnic sites,” she added.
At the other end of the Vodacom Durban July hospitality spectrum is the new Silver Ring Room, in the main grandstand overlooking the finish straight, which can cater or up to 900 VIP guests in opulent luxury.
“This is aimed at the discerning racegoer, offering superb food and décor in a sophisticated and stylish environment,” said Jacqueline Yanko.
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She said that the décor would have an element of ‘Out Of Africa’ as part of its interpretation of the raceday theme “It Is Time”, with an impressive menu of food choices available.
“Many people will choose to be part of the festivities in the Marquee Village, while other top-end guests will look to enjoy the day in more discreet luxury. That is where the Silver Ring Room comes in,” said Yanko.
“It is new and a breath of fresh air in a market where everyone is looking for all-in VIP hospitality; and looking to make a statement by offering friends and associates something new on the raceday,” she added.
More information can be found at www.vodacomdurbanjuly.co.za
