Michael Owen returns to South Africa to experience the Hollywoodbets Durban July festivities
Image: Instagram
As Durban gears up for the much-anticipated Hollywoodbets Durban July weekend, excitement is building throughout the Zulu Kingdom.
This year's celebration promises to be extra special as legendary soccer player and current racehorse trainer Michael Owen arrives in the city to engage with fans and share his passion for horse racing.
Drawing spectators and socialites from across the globe, the Hollywoodbets Durban July, scheduled for July 5, is well-known as one of the premier events on the South African horse racing calendar.
To add to the festivities, Owen will be making an appearance at Sibaya Casino and Entertainment Kingdom on July 4 and 6, which will allow fans the opportunity to meet the football star.
While Owen made his mark on the soccer pitch, his interests extend beyond football.
He has established himself as a respected sports pundit and is the proud owner of The Michael Owen Racing Club, a venture aimed at providing horse racing enthusiasts a chance to experience the thrill of racehorse ownership without breaking the bank.
Operating from his Manor House Stables in Cheshire, Owen's racing club has captured the imaginations of many and highlights his deep-rooted passion for horse racing.
Continuing the family legacy, his daughter Gemma Owen has embraced the equestrian world, focusing her talents on dressage.
This sport was not only about the art of riding but also one's ability to forge a harmonious partnership with the horse, showcasing elegance, grace, and precision in every movement.
Owen was no stranger to the beauty and adventure that South Africa had to offer.
During his previous visit (November 2022) he explored some of the country's stunning landscapes, including a memorable safari adventure where he connected with the wildlife and shared glimpses of the experience on his social media accounts, stating, 'South Africa, what an amazing place❤️.'
His continued partnership with South African betting company Sunbet, which included exclusive campaigns offering VIP experiences like stadium tours and match tickets, underscored his strong ties to the nation.
His presence at the Durban July promises to be a highlight of the weekend.
DAILY NEWS
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The South African
2 hours ago
- The South African
The Bachelor SA's Marc Buckner sparks rumours with male pal
The Bachelor South Africa' s season two star Marc Buckner has set tongues wagging with social media posts featuring another hunky male. The reality TV star shot to fame in 2020 after giving his 'final rose' to blonde bombshell, Marisia van Wyk. The fitness model is based in Cape Town. In recent months, Marc Buckner has been posting up a storm on Instagram with his 'friend'. The good-looking younger man – a German model – shares the same interests as The Bachelor SA star, fitness, fashion and content creation. However, the nature of their relationship has left many fans speculating. While Marc has not directly responded to questions from his followers, he did post of the commentary: 'So many assumptions!' View this post on Instagram A post shared by Marc Buckner (@marcbuckner) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Marc Buckner (@marcbuckner) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Marc Buckner (@marcbuckner) Meanwhile, Marc Buckner's former fia,ncée Marisia van Wyk, is also living her best life as a model. The blonde bombshell – whom Marc gave his final rose to – is currently living in Athens, Greece, where she has signed with a local agency. According to reports , Marc split from Marisia after being in an on-and-off relationship since their stint on The Bachelor SA. The Bachelor SA Season Two alumni Marc Buckner and ex-partner, Marisia van via Instagram @marcbuckner In July 2021, Marc revealed that he and Marisia had 'parted ways' after giving their relationship another go following their 2020 break-up. The couple were seen together again several times, although their reunions never lasted long. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 . Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp , Facebook , X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
IOL News
4 hours ago
- IOL News
Willemse relishes Loftus return as Springbok comeback nears
Springboks fullback Damian Willemse is back in the starting XV after a prolonged period on the sidelines due to injury and suspension. Photo: Timothy Barnard Independent Media Image: Timothy Barnard Independent Media Damian Willemse admits he is nervous ahead of his first match for the Springboks since the 2023 World Cup final, but as he returns to Loftus Versfeld, he carries the comforting memory of arguably his finest hour in a Bok jersey — at the same venue. It was in 2022, and a rusty South African side were on the verge of being upset by Wales. But when Willemse moved to flyhalf for Elton Jantjies in the second half, the game turned. With Handré Pollard-like composure, Willemse slotted the match-winning penalty. The Boks edged it 32-29. "That is a good memory," Willemse smiled. "It was a scary day for us at Loftus. We did well to come back in the second half." Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading The fullback enjoyed an excellent run across 2022 and 2023, but injuries derailed his momentum, and he has had little game time for the Stormers and none yet for the Boks this year. A recent suspension in the United Rugby Championship, shortly after recovering from a hand injury, added to his frustration. "I am very happy to be healthy and back in the Bok squad," Willemse told a press conference. "It has been a difficult two years — injuries and then, lately, the suspension. "I'm pleased to have another shot. I'm excited but a bit nervous. I have not played since the World Cup final. I need to get into the game and do my primary job at fullback. "I'm nervous, but the guys in the team and the coaching staff give me security," he added. "As soon as we sing the national anthem, I'll start feeling at home. I'll get my first touch and get into it. "You are playing for the national team, and that brings added pressure, but that's part of it, and you look forward to the challenge." Previously against the Italians 💨 Head to Ticketmaster to grab your tickets for Saturday's clash in Pretoria 👉 #ForeverGreenForeverGold — Springboks (@Springboks) July 1, 2025
IOL News
4 hours ago
- IOL News
Peter Shalulile could be the missing piece in Kaizer Chiefs' rebuild
Could Shalulile make Chiefs great again? Namibian striker Peter Shalulile could be the perfect signing to reignite Kaizer Chiefs ahead of the new Betway Premiership season. Photo: Phill Magakoe/AFP Image: Phill Magakoe/AFP Peter Shalulile would be the perfect man to spearhead Kaizer Chiefs' push up the Betway Premiership table next season. The Namibian hitman is reported to have exited Mamelodi Sundowns when his contract expired at the end of June, and is now available to sign for any club he wishes. In recent season, Kaizer Chiefs have struggled for goals and are in desperate need of a goal machine that knows how to put the ball in the back of the net. A move to Chiefs will give the 31-year-old Shalulile a chance to continue his career at the highest level. His record in front of goal, and his impressive haul of trophies are a testament to his ability as a footballer. And because of his experience in winning everything under the South African sun, he would be perfect in guiding Chiefs' young players. Get your news on the go, click here to join the IOL News WhatsApp channel. Shalulile joined Sundowns in 2020 from Highlands Park, and went on to score over 100 goals in all competitions for the Tshwane giants Shalulile is the type of player who can instantly make Chiefs a better team. And as Nasreddine Nabi rebuilds the team so that they can start challenging for honours again, they should be doing everything they can to sign a player of his pedigree. At Chiefs, he can be the missing piece in the puzzle that gets the club firing on all cylinders again. If Chiefs are serious about getting the club back to where they belong, then a player of Shalulile's calibre is one they should be signing. A proven winner with a relentless work ethic, Shalulile would bring more than just goals to Naturena. He would also arrive with the mentality of a champion – something Kaizer Chiefs have sorely lacked in recent years. His presence in the dressing room could inspire a shift in mindset and allow the younger players to flourish. If the club truly wants to restore its legacy and reignite belief among its supporters, signing Peter Shalulile isn't just a good idea – it's a necessary one. IOL Sport * The views expressed are not necessarily the views of IOL or Independent Media. ** JOIN THE CONVERSATION: Send us an email with your comments, thoughts or responses to iolletters@ Letters should be a maximum of 500 words, and may be edited for length. Anonymous correspondence will not be published. Submissions should include a contact number and physical address (not for publication).
