Latest news with #MadisonValley
The Citizen
5 days ago
- Sport
- The Citizen
King Pelles rules over the Gold Cup market
Search is on for a longshot in SA's premier marathon For decades the Gold Cup at Greyville was famous for its longshot winners. But in recent years the formbook has proven to be a more reliable guide for punters. When declarations for South Africa's premier marathon horse race were announced this week, bookmakers quickly pegged obvious favourite King Pelles at a prohibitive R1.65 for the Win (and R0.31 the Place!). That would have been unheard of in the days when the punters' game was finding the traditional end-of-season 'roughie'. Racing being the funny old game it is, though, there'll still be a search for value among the 13 runners before the start at the 3200m pole at Greyville on Sunday 27 July. Holding Thumbs is well regarded by his trainer Glen Kotzen and has been developing into a decent stayer, so his R4.55 looks fair value – until one scrutinises his most recent run, in the Gold Vase on July day, when he was made to look pedestrian by King Pelles. Madison Valley ran a commendable fifth in the July and leading jockey Gavin Lerena was encouraged enough by what he felt that day to stick with the four-year-old. That makes his R6.25 Win worth considering. Shoot The Rapids, a close runner-up in this race last year, has all the stamina needed to outlast his rivals, but hasn't been in the best of form recently. It might pay to keep a close eye on the Gold Cup betting market over the next week, especially for moves for runners with no proven record the marathon trip. What happens on the gallops seldom stays on the gallops. Gold Cup betting: King Pelles – R1.65 Holding Thumbs – R4.55 Madison Valley – R6.25 Future Swing – R8.33 Navajo Nation – R10.00 Shoot The Rapids – R12.50 Nebraas – R12.50 Bournemouth – R14.30 Cape Eagle – R16.67 Blackberry Malt – R16.67 Field Marshall – R33.33 Taxhaven – R40.00 Positive Attitude – R75.00
The Citizen
05-07-2025
- Sport
- The Citizen
The Real Prince, the real deal: Hot favourite narrowly beaten in Durban July
The four-year-old gelding started at bookmaker odds of 14-1. Spectators celebrate during the Durban July main race on 2 July 2022. Picture: Jacques Nelles The Real Prince won the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July at Greyville – just ahead of hot-pot 2-1 favourite Eight On Eighteen. Ridden by Craig Zackey and trained by Dean Kannemeyer, the four-year-old gelding started at bookmaker odds of 14-1, paid R10.30 a Win and R2.90 a Place on the TAB tote. It was Kannemeyer's fourth Durban July victory and a first for Zackey in South Africa's premier horse race. In third place was Selukwe (17-2), with Royal Victory (20-1) in fourth and Madison Valley (25-1) in fifth. This is a developing story
IOL News
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
The Hollywoodbets Durban July countdown: A celebration of culture, fashion and equine excellence
As excitement mounts, all eyes will be on the Greyville Racecourse this weekend, where the fusion of tradition, fashion, and a festive spirit will create an unforgettable Madlala (right), in a Kheta Thango outfit which is a finalist in the Hollywoodbets Durban July Young Designer Award competition, and Shenal Zulu in a DFF Rising Stars outfit designed by Mbasa Ndongeni, with Madison Valley As excitement mounts, all eyes will be on the Greyville Racecourse this weekend, where the fusion of tradition, fashion, and a festive spirit will create an unforgettable Madlala (right), in a Kheta Thango outfit which is a finalist in the Hollywoodbets Durban July Young Designer Award competition, and Shenal Zulu in a DFF Rising Stars outfit designed by Mbasa Ndongeni, with Madison Valley As the anticipation builds for the Hollywoodbets Durban July, this year's affair is expected to showcase a blend of tradition, innovation, and unmissable fashion flair, cementing its status as a highlight on Africa's social calendar. Scheduled for 5 July at the Greyville Racecourse, this prestigious gathering is set to welcome approximately 45,000 attendees, promising both glamour and economic vitality for the host city of Durban. The eThekwini municipality has been proactive in its preparations, with multidisciplinary teams diligently working to clean and enhance the precinct surrounding the racecourse. 'This included cutting grass and pruning trees as well as street sweeping. Teams consisted of officials from iTRUMP Area-Based Management, the Cleansing and Solid Waste Unit, the Metro Police, the Roads Department, and the Parks Department, as well as volunteers from Ensure Security and Ensure Ubuntu Cleaning.' This year marks the 128th edition, and the event is poised to dazzle not only with its races but also with the vibrant theme of 'Marvels of Mzansi'. Designers, both professional and amateur, are eager to showcase their creative talents, making this aspect of the event as thrilling as the races themselves. It is explained that the fashion component will feature three official elements: the Durban Fashion Fair Rising Stars, the Hollywoodbets Durban July Invited Designers Showcase, and the 10 finalists from the Hollywoodbets Durban July Young Designer competition. Renowned and emerging designers will also display their creations, while the student designers await the announcement of winners for incredible prizes and the coveted title of the year. Fashion enthusiasts will have the chance to showcase their own attire in the Hollywoodbets Durban July Raceday Fashion Awards, while ticket holders can enter categories such as classic racewear for men and women, best dressed couple, and the standout raceday hat or fascinator, further adding an element of competition to the day. Adding a modern flair to the cherished traditions, the cutting-edge automotive manufacturer Omoda has joined the celebration, backing renowned designer Khosi Nkosi. The dynamic duo of Nobukhozi and Thabo Mukwevho leads the design house, which has garnered attention at Milan and Paris Fashion Weeks. Their collaboration with the brand, encapsulated in the Ndlovukazi campaign, is a tribute to African royalty and beauty, where it serves as a canvas for their innovative vision. Shannon Gahagan, Brand and Marketing Manager for Omoda & Jaecoo South Africa, expressed pride in the partnership, stating,'Our collaboration with Khosi Nkosi is a celebration of cultural power and creative expression. Through the Ndlovukazi campaign and this bespoke Omoda C7 wrap, we're proud to honour heritage in a way that moves the story forward.' Saturday Star
IOL News
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
The Hollywoodbets Durban July countdown: A celebration of culture, fashion and equine excellence
As excitement mounts, all eyes will be on the Greyville Racecourse this weekend, where the fusion of tradition, fashion, and a festive spirit will create an unforgettable Madlala (right), in a Kheta Thango outfit which is a finalist in the Hollywoodbets Durban July Young Designer Award competition, and Shenal Zulu in a DFF Rising Stars outfit designed by Mbasa Ndongeni, with Madison Valley As excitement mounts, all eyes will be on the Greyville Racecourse this weekend, where the fusion of tradition, fashion, and a festive spirit will create an unforgettable Madlala (right), in a Kheta Thango outfit which is a finalist in the Hollywoodbets Durban July Young Designer Award competition, and Shenal Zulu in a DFF Rising Stars outfit designed by Mbasa Ndongeni, with Madison Valley As the anticipation builds for the Hollywoodbets Durban July, this year's affair is expected to showcase a blend of tradition, innovation, and unmissable fashion flair, cementing its status as a highlight on Africa's social calendar. Scheduled for 5 July at the Greyville Racecourse, this prestigious gathering is set to welcome approximately 45,000 attendees, promising both glamour and economic vitality for the host city of Durban. The eThekwini municipality has been proactive in its preparations, with multidisciplinary teams diligently working to clean and enhance the precinct surrounding the racecourse. 'This included cutting grass and pruning trees as well as street sweeping. Teams consisted of officials from iTRUMP Area-Based Management, the Cleansing and Solid Waste Unit, the Metro Police, the Roads Department, and the Parks Department, as well as volunteers from Ensure Security and Ensure Ubuntu Cleaning.' This year marks the 128th edition, and the event is poised to dazzle not only with its races but also with the vibrant theme of 'Marvels of Mzansi'. Designers, both professional and amateur, are eager to showcase their creative talents, making this aspect of the event as thrilling as the races themselves. It is explained that the fashion component will feature three official elements: the Durban Fashion Fair Rising Stars, the Hollywoodbets Durban July Invited Designers Showcase, and the 10 finalists from the Hollywoodbets Durban July Young Designer competition. Renowned and emerging designers will also display their creations, while the student designers await the announcement of winners for incredible prizes and the coveted title of the year. Fashion enthusiasts will have the chance to showcase their own attire in the Hollywoodbets Durban July Raceday Fashion Awards, while ticket holders can enter categories such as classic racewear for men and women, best dressed couple, and the standout raceday hat or fascinator, further adding an element of competition to the day. Adding a modern flair to the cherished traditions, the cutting-edge automotive manufacturer Omoda has joined the celebration, backing renowned designer Khosi Nkosi. The dynamic duo of Nobukhozi and Thabo Mukwevho leads the design house, which has garnered attention at Milan and Paris Fashion Weeks. Their collaboration with the brand, encapsulated in the Ndlovukazi campaign, is a tribute to African royalty and beauty, where it serves as a canvas for their innovative vision. Shannon Gahagan, Brand and Marketing Manager for Omoda & Jaecoo South Africa, expressed pride in the partnership, stating,'Our collaboration with Khosi Nkosi is a celebration of cultural power and creative expression. Through the Ndlovukazi campaign and this bespoke Omoda C7 wrap, we're proud to honour heritage in a way that moves the story forward.' Saturday Star
New Paper
03-07-2025
- Sport
- New Paper
July 5 Durban July form analysis
1 Oriental Charm Last year's winner whose preparation run in the Gold Challenge was scintillating. Gets the best draw and has a huge chance of going back-to-back. 2 Madison Valley Bounced right back to winning ways last time. He is a five-time winner and has a chance of finishing in the money. 3 On My Honour Caught the eye last time when third to Madison Valley and has the form to be competitive. Strong place chance, but others are chosen for the win. 4 Atticus Finch Is taking time for the next win but is packed with ability and class and needs to be respected. Expect a good effort. 5 The Real Prince Is an interesting runner. His form is solid and if he stays the added trip, then can go very close to getting it all right. The neat draw will help. Respect and include. 6 Selukwe Was an impressive winner of the 1,900m last time and caught the attention of many. His turn of foot is his biggest asset and if he were to win, it would be no shock at all. Good each-way claims. 7 Rainbow Lorikeet Has solid form but others might be stronger. Others are preferred for the win, but she can certainly earn. Her run in the Woolavington 2000 was eye-catching. An outsider with a place chance. 8 Pomodoro's Jet Has won his last three in fine fashion but against weaker and faces his toughest test to date. He gets a cozy draw but needs to raise his game to threaten here. Happy to ignore. 9 My Best Shot Has a sparkling record from the Eastern Cape having won 10 races from 16 starts. He clearly is good and has talent but will find it tough against these. An outsider with a small place chance. 10 Immediate Edge Interesting three-year-old who is showing huge potential for the de Kock team. He shows guts and determination in his races and could end up being anything. He is an exciting prospect and has an undeniable winning chance. 11 Eight On Eighteen Is winning in the manner of a top horse. He is a top horse and his last victory was outstanding. The one to beat. 12 Purple Pitcher Is taking time for the next victory and is a tad off form. He is capable of a good run but has become difficult to assess and predict. Small outside place chance at best, if things go his way. 13 Okavango Is the each-way value in the race and has to be respected. He has acquitted himself well in some very tough races and has talent. Strong claims. 14 Confederate Has absolutely no stamina doubts and is a big runner. His form is solid and he has a lively chance in this. Each-way chance. 15 See It Again Is taking time to get the next win but he is packed with class and ability. He can build on his last run to Dave The King and can never be dismissed from any bets. Big run in store. 16 Gladatorian Seems to have had a sparkling preparation coming into the Durban July and if he sees out the trip, he can be very competitive. Respect and include as the value for the places. 17 Royal Victory Is running very well and is coming into the race off two excellent last runs. He ran a cracker last year and has a bright winning chance. 18 Native Ruler Is never too far off the action but there are many that are selected to finish in front of him. He finished fourth behind Eight On Eighteen last time. Others are preferred. RESERVES: 19 Litigation Showed a form return last time but is taking a long time to win again. He would be a surprise winner if he gets into the race. 20 Son Of Raj Is off form at the moment and will have to improve a lot on current form to feature in the finish. He is likely to be at huge odds and if he gets in, would be a shock winner. Happy to ignore. Comments courtesy of The Hong Kong Jockey Club
