The final field of the famous Durban July has been announced on Tuesday 20 June 2023 with the final field and the draws. Final acceptances and July panel selectors confirmed 23 runners for the race, leaving some big names out such as Aragosta, Union Square, and Electric Gold on the sidelines. However, Nebraas and Jimmy Don have been named as reserve runners, ready to step in if any of the final 18 contenders withdraw before Friday, June 30. See the full lineup of all 20 runners below including the reserve runners for this years Durban July.
Hollywoodbets Durban July 2023 Strong Contenders:
Justin Snaith emerges as a formidable force in the upcoming R5 million Gr1 Hollywoodbets Durban July, with five runners securing their spots in the highly anticipated 18-horse field. The announcement took place during a dazzling ceremony in Umhlanga Rocks, setting the stage for Africa’s most prestigious horseracing event. Hollywoodbets Greyville will host the pinnacle race of the South African calendar, covering a distance of 2200m on Saturday, on July 1, with an estimated attendance of 55,000 enthusiastic spectators and racing fans.
This year’s race promises an international flair, as Mike de Kock secured the services of esteemed International French Champion Jockey, Christophe Soumillon, to ride Safe Passage. Soumillon will arrive just before the race and depart shortly after. Safe Passage recently showcased its potential with a close second-place finish in the G1 Betway Summer Cup, following which Puerto Manzano secured an automatic entry by claiming victory in the Gr3 WSB Jubilee Stakes.
Adding excitement to the competition, top weight Trip of Fortune has been supplemented into the race, despite being allocated a challenging 60kg and never having competed beyond 1600m. Aldo Domeyer will partner with Trip of Fortune on behalf of Candice Bass-Robinson.
In a twist of fate, Bernard Fayde’Herbe, facing a riding infraction in Mauritius, received approval to team up with Justin Snaith, piloting Pomp And Power. Another notable contender from the Snaith stable is the veteran and two-time winner of the Durban July, Do It Again. Do It Again completed its preparations in the recent Gr1 Hollywoodbets Gold Challenge and is set for its record-breaking sixth appearance in the race. Gavin Lerena, the successful jockey aboard Kommetdieding in 2020, will take the reins.
Among the Snaith armory is Without Question, the beaten odds-on favorite in the Gr1 Splash Out Cape Derby, securing third place in the Gr1 Daily News 2000 and triumphing in the Gr3 Variety Club Mile. Richard Fourie, the first-choice rider for the stable, faced a significant decision in selecting his mount for the race having a pick of any 5 good runners.
Weiho Marwing, seeking redemption from his runner-up position in 2014, pins his hopes on Gr1 WSB SA Derby winner Son Of Raj. The talented colt, owned by Stephen Chetty, has swiftly risen through the ranks under Marwing’s guidance. It is sure to be a very good race this year. Be sure to not miss any of the action and have your bet. If you need more information regarding this years Durban July with information on finding the track and how to watch the July look at our Get Ready For Durban July 2023 Blog!
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