The final field for the Durban July 2024 has been announced, setting the stage for an electrifying event at Hollywoodbets Greyville on Saturday, July 6. Eighteen of South Africa’s finest middle-distance horses are ready to compete over 2200 meters in what promises to be a thrilling race. This year’s line-up is headlined by last year’s winner Winchester Mansion and the formidable See It Again, who finished as the runner-up in the previous year.
A Field of Champions
This year’s Durban July carries significant emotional weight for both trainer Michael Roberts and jockey Piere Strydom. Roberts, who claimed victory in this prestigious race as a jockey in 1997 aboard Super Quality, now aims to win it as a trainer. Strydom, delaying his retirement, hopes to conclude his illustrious career with a fifth win aboard the impressive See It Again.
Here is the final field for the Durban July 2024:
- Royal Victory (Nathan Kotzen, 57.0 kg)
- Barbaresco (J A Janse Van Vuuren, 53.5 kg)
- Without Question (Justin Snaith, 54.5 kg)
- Future Swing (Justin Snaith, 54.0 kg)
- Green With Envy (Dean Kannemeyer, 56.0 kg)
- Shoemaker (Mike De Kock, 54.0 kg)
- Aragosta (Mike De Kock, 54.0 kg)
- Purple Pitcher (Robyn Klaasen, 53.0 kg)
- Winchester Mansion (Brett Crawford, 56.5 kg)
- See It Again (Michael Roberts, 60.0 kg)
- Oriental Charm (Brett Crawford, 53.0 kg)
- Son Of Raj (Tony Peter, 54.0 kg)
- Meridius (Tony Peter, 54.0 kg)
- Master Redoute (Andre Nel, 54.0 kg)
- Cousin Casey (Sean Tarry, 56.0 kg)
- Double Superlative (Justin Snaith, 56.5 kg)
- Flag Man (Gareth Van Zyl, 55.5 kg)
- Future Pearl (Sean Tarry, 53.0 kg)
Reserve 1: Hluhluwe (Justin Snaith, 53.0 kg)
Reserve 2: Hotarubi (Sean Tarry, 53.0 kg)
Highlights and Storylines
Among the standout storylines this year is the participation of Royal Victory, trained by Nathan Kotzen. Drawing the coveted pole position, Royal Victory, a winner of both the Gr1 Betway Summer Cup and the Gr1 Champion’s Challenge, is expected to put up a strong performance.
Michael Roberts, aiming for a historic win as a trainer, is another focal point. See It Again, carrying the top weight of 60kg, has shown excellent form and remains one of the big favorites.
The field also includes notable contenders like Green With Envy (Dean Kannemeyer), who won the Gr1 Daily News 2000, and Winchester Mansion (Brett Crawford), last year’s champion. Snaith Racing has a strong presence with three horses: Without Question, Future Swing, and Double Superlative.
Conclusion: A Race to Remember
The Durban July 2024 is shaping up to be a spectacular event, bringing together the best of South Africa’s thoroughbreds and the most skilled jockeys. With the history, prestige, and high stakes surrounding this race, it promises to be a thrilling spectacle for racing enthusiasts and bettors alike. As these elite horses prepare to compete, the excitement builds for what could be one of the most memorable races in recent history. Don’t miss out on the action at Hollywoodbets Greyville on July 6 – it’s going to be a race for the ages!