Hollywoodbets Durban July to inject millions into Durban economy
Durban is preparing to welcome about 40 000 racegoers as the Hollywoodbets Durban July returns with Africa's richest horse race, a R10m winner's purse and a significant boost for the local economy.
AN estimated 1 105 jobs will be created and approximately R798m injected into the local economy when the 130th Hollywoodbets Durban July takes place at Greyville Racecourse on Saturday, July 4.
Launching the week leading up to Africa’s most prestigious sporting and lifestyle horseracing event, eThekwini Municipality Mayor Cyril Xaba said the city is expecting about 40 000 visitors to attend the annual spectacle.
“The Durban July weekend transforms our City into a vibrant hub of economic activity, providing a substantial boost to hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, transport operators, retailers, tourism attractions, and informal traders. It remains one of the most important economic catalysts on Durban’s annual events calendar,” said Xaba.
He assured residents, visitors and stakeholders that the City is fully prepared to host the influx of guests expected to descend on Durban.
Also Read: Durban July launches with “Country Allure” theme
Race Coast Head of Major Events, Broadcast and Marketing Stephen Marshall said organisers are ready to welcome racegoers across 29 independently operated hospitality venues and VIP marquees, supported by more than 9 000 event staff and an additional 1 000 security personnel.
“While every owner, trainer, jockey, breeder, and groom dreams of winning the R10m Hollywoodbets Durban July, the event simultaneously creates opportunities across multiple sectors, supporting thousands of livelihoods and showcasing Durban on a national and international stage,” said Marshall.
Hollywoodbets Brand and Communications Manager Devin Heffer announced that the winner’s stake has doubled to R10m, making the Hollywoodbets Durban July the richest horse race in Africa.
He said the Hollywood Group and Race Coast have continued investing in the sport through infrastructure upgrades at Greyville Racecourse, including new grandstands, improvements to the parade ring, upgraded roofing, enhanced sound systems, fresh paintwork, generators and large digital screens to enhance the spectator experience.
This year’s theme, “Country Allure”, invites fashion enthusiasts, designers and racegoers to embrace a sophisticated blend of rural elegance, timeless charm and contemporary style.
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