All Inclusive Guide For Durban July 2025

Welcome punters and horse racing enthusiasts to this all inclusive guide for Durban July 2025. Here we will be talking about the latest confirmed weights along with the trainers and merit ratings for the top horses. Also some possible early outsider tips to watch out for this year at the Hollywoodbets Durban July 2025.

Also with some added information about where to watch the event online and where to get tickets for the big day if you are planning on showing up in person. Let’s dive into a world of punting and excitement and who knows maybe this will be the year that the legendary horses, jockey and trainer combinations change your life in terms of finance or even just by having a brag with a mate.

Durban July 2025 Horse Weights, MR and Trainers

Here’s a table of the top participants, ordered by Merit Rating (MR) descending, with Weight (kg) and Trainer:

Why EIGHT ON EIGHTEEN May Win

No other horse in this field stands a better chance with the Durban July 2025 narrative than EIGHT ON EIGHTEEN. Trained by Justin Snaith, ridden with surgical precision. The formlines and race form to match, With a standout Merit Rating of 129, he’s the top-rated colt in the field. Over the past year, he’s taken down multiple Group‑1 races, running on aggressively yet intelligently. This is defintely one of the horses to watch.

On paper, he’s an absolute beast, but what takes in to the next level is the trust in Snaith’s July history and his great jockey partnerships. Fantastic weight on this horse that speaks favorably, and his finishing stride or as we like to call it second wind or nitrous oxide boost has dominated rivals over 2,200 m in similar conditions. Imagine a tightly packed field and EIGHT ON EIGHTEEN slicing through the inside line to win in dominant fashion. That’s exactly what has happend in the past and this horse, with a blend of speed + staying power, is set to replicate it under Greyville lights.

Selukwe Might Sneak It

If you’re after a dark horse outsider with the headstrong ability to charge straight ahead, SELUKWE represents excellent value. MR 111 and light 54 kg put him on the far side of most data sheets. Yet he has had some very decent and credible form on Cape tracks, showing tactical pace and closing speed. Andre Nel, the trainer, often places him to peak late in big races. He may not be name recognizable today, but chasing value requires a sharp outsider and a keen punters mindset. If the race comes together and favorites cancel each other out, Selukwe might catch the eye of a punter who stays alert to the all important Place dividends.

The Return of a Champion: Oriental Charm Is Back for Blood!

If you were lucky enough to follow Pocket The Winner’s tip in 2024, you’ll remember the name Oriental Charm. Not just because he won the Hollywoodbets Durban July but because he did it like a beast it was amazing to watch and something that will stick with us for a very very long time.

Trained by the incredible sharp eyed James Crawford and ridden by the stoney ice cold hand beast eyed dragon fierce jaw dropping power of JP van der Merwe, Oriental Charm didn’t just edge the race. He owned it! Calm at the break, poised in the pack, and lethal in the final 400m, he kicked down the stretch with the confidence of a horse that knew it was destined for greatness and glory. What a ride!

A Beast Among Horses

n 2024, many punters doubted this beast that is know as Oriental Charm. It’s staying power under the 60kg burden is like no other. But those who followed the Pocket The Winner tip sheet knew better. His track work, his form, his temperament. Gosh!! it all screamed classic July winner. And when he let loose at Greyville, the stands erupted. It wasn’t a win, it was a clear statement that this horse ware destined for greatness.

Now, as we gear up for Hollywoodbets Durban July 2025, the reigning champ returns. Not just as a participant, but as the benchmark! The contender. The Champion!!!

• Merit Rating: 127
• Weight: 60kg
• Trainer: James Crawford
• Jockey (expected): JP van der Merwe (still unconfirmed, but fingers crossed)

Why Oriental Charm Can Do It Again

Defending his Durban July crown will no easy task. Only a rare class of horse pulls it off. The type of horse to come once in a decade. But Oriental Charm ticks every box on the punter list of box ticking:

• Experience at Greyville? ✅
• Stamina over 2200m? ✅
• Top-tier connections? ✅
• Unbeaten since July? Almost. Very Almost. Solid Form. He’s been kept lightly raced, primed for the big day. The July day.

There’s a fire in this horse’s eyes that hasn’t dimmed. Every gallop, every barrier trial whispers one thing: repeat champion. This is something that looks like it can certanily be true and at the current odds of almost 6/1 there is some serious value to be had.

🗣️ The Word from Pocket The Winner

“At 16/1 We called it last year, and we’re definitely watching him again this year. Unless the pace gets too tactical or a featherweight flyer sneaks it late, Oriental Charm will run a massive race. He’s class, he’s strong, and he’s already proven he can crush this field.” Let’s hope he does not get boxed in.

Whether you’re a first time punter or a long time Durban July follower, don’t overlook Oriental Charm. Legends are made in July. And this one? He’s already wearing the crown like a true champion horse focused and steady. Now he’s coming to show it wasn’t a fluke. He is coming to show that he is the horse to beat on the day!

Back him again, or prepare to watch in awe.

Where to Get Durban July 2025 Tickets

If you’re planning to attend the Hollywoodbets Durban July 2025 in person, tickets are available through official channels. Here’s how you can secure your spot at Greyville Racecourse:

• Official Ticket Outlets:
  Visit the official Durban July website at www.durbanjuly.co.za for hospitality packages, grandstand access, and general admission tickets.
• Computicket:
  Tickets are also available via Computicket online or in-store across South Africa. Book early—this event sells out fast.
• Hospitality & VIP Packages:
  For private lounges, corporate boxes, or fashion-themed experiences, reach out directly via the event website or Greyville Racecourse.

Where to Watch the Durban July 2025 Online

Can’t make it to Durban? You can still enjoy the thrill live from home or your favorite betting venue:

• Hollywoodbets Official Website
  Stream the Durban July races live at www.hollywoodbets.net (account required for viewing). Their online platform also offers live odds, tote updates, and betting tools.
• Racing Today & Gallop TV
  Gallop TV and Racing Today broadcast the full race day coverage with analysis, interviews, and build-up. Watch online at www.galloptv.co.za.
• SuperSport (DSTV)
  Selected races and highlights will air on SuperSport channels, including the Durban July Main Race.
• 🌐 Racing Today
  Your go-to site for South African racing news, previews, and Durban July live coverage. Visit www.racingtoday.co.za for race guides, tips, and real-time results.

The Home Stretch

As we approach the starting gates for the Hollywoodbets Durban July 2025, one thing is certain, this year’s race is stacked with top class talent like you have never seen before, insane potential, and massive betting opportunities. From the returning champion Oriental Charm, to the imposing Eight On Eighteen, and the quiet but deadly Immediate Edge, punters and fans of the sport have plenty to analyze, debate, and back on this big day that is the Hollywoodbets Durban July 2025.

With Merit Ratings, weights, and trainer insights now laid out, you’re equipped with everything needed to make informed picks. Whether you’re anchoring your bets with proven favourites like the rest of South Africa or chasing some big cash moeny longshot horses for the ultimate glory with horses like Selukwe, there’s a winning angle for every punter.

The estimated R20 million Pick 6 pool means value is everywhere. If you know where to look. Then add the easy access you have for watching the event to on Racing Today, Hollywoodbets, Gallop TV, and Racing 240, and there’s no excuse to miss the action.

So, sharpen those tickets, trust your instincts, and most importantly pocket the winner! We’ll see you on the turf come 5 July 2025, where legends will be made, odds will be defied, and fortunes might just change for a lucky few punters who decided to risk it all!!

Let the race begin. Checkout our Durban July Tip

Gamble Responsibly

Gambling can be addictive. Please bet responsibly.
Gambling is not for persons under the age of 18.
If you or someone you know needs help, contact the South African National Responsible Gambling Foundation:

📞 Helpline: 0800 006 008 (Free, 24/7 support)
🌐 Visit www.responsiblegambling.org.za for more information.