Stakeholders and regular racing fans, together with the ‘once a year flutterers’ are invited to step out at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Thursday morning at 06h30 for 07h00 when a number of the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July runners will be put through their paces at the ever popular official big race gallops.
While Durban has been dry but relatively nippy in recent days, the weather on Thursday is predicted to be a sunny 27 degrees, with showers early and ‘breezy’ in the afternoon.
The gallops are a longstanding tradition ahead of the 5 July spectacular and the eleven locally based runners to gallop include newsmaking favourite Eight On Eighteen, who is set to go through his paces under Richard Fourie from the mile mark with stablemate Makazole.
The full list of gallopers in attendance include Madison Valley, who gets the show started at 07h00, followed by On My Honour, The Real Princes, Royal Victory, Selukwe, Rainbow Lorikeet, Okavango, See It Again, Gladatorian and Native Ruler.
Justin Snaith’s star Double Grand Slam heads a list of seven non Durban July runners, who are scheduled to show their well-being.
For those who cannot make it trackside, the Gallops will be streamed live on Gallop TV.
All of the gallops, including pre-recorded clips of the remaining out-of-province candidates will also be broadcast on course and on SABC Sport, Supersport and Racing 240.
The Hollywoodbets Durban July day Winning Form will be for sale on course. Interestingly, 189 runners will contest the 12 races on 5 July.
This stems from what is believed to be a SA record of 539 entries for the racemeeting. Trainer Louis Goosen pointed this fact out to the Sporting Post. “The difference? Simple. Hollywood,” he added.
Entry is free and visitors can enjoy free coffee and pastries.
Book your Durban View Restaurant breakfast for just R130 — call 031 314 1736.
