Big race sponsors Hollywoodbets have set the pace in the pre-nominations ante-post betting market for the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July with defending champion Oriental Charm topping the opening board on Monday morning.
With just over four months to go to the 5 July spectacular at Hollywoodbets Greyville, things are clearly still very much in the melting pot, with plenty of water yet to run under the bridge.
Oriental Charm and JP van der Merwe enjoy the victory canter in 2024 (Pic – Candiese Lenferna)
While it is no surprise to see Oriental Charm at the top of the boards, recent Cape Town Met and Cape Derby winner Eight On Eighteen is right on his heels, even though the Snaiths have indicated that there is a chance that he will skip Africa’s greatest race.
Joey Soma’s season prospects brightened considerably at Turffontein on Saturday with the victory of the talented Fiery Pegasus in the Wilgerbosdrift Gr1 SA Fillies Classic.
Sean Tarry’s Cosmic Speed found his form in the Wilgerbosdrift HF Oppenheimer Gr1 Horse Chestnut Stakes on Saturday and he is next at 25-2, with TAB Gr1 SA Classic runner-up Fire Attack catching the eye as he chased Confederate home, and shares the 25-2 ticket on the big race board.
Hollywoodbets revealed the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July theme ‘Marvels of Mzansi’ on Friday 28 February. This captivating theme celebrates South Africa’s rich heritage, cultural diversity, and breath-taking landscapes, paying tribute to the nation’s extraordinary achievements.
The Hollywoodbets Durban July takes place on Saturday 5 July at Hollywoodbets Greyville racecourse. Tickets will go on sale in April on the Ticketpro website.
