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Durban put on a spectacular display at this year's Hollywoodbets Durban July.
On Saturday, Africa's greatest horse racing and lifestyle event delivered unforgettable moments both on and off the track.
Thousands of racegoers packed Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse, representing this year's Country Allure theme with everything from sophisticated tailoring and handcrafted hats to bold contemporary couture inspired by the countryside.
READ: Thousands expected in Durban for South Africa’s biggest horse racing event
Meanwhile, one of the most exciting finishes in recent years saw Note To Self storm home to claim the coveted R10 million Grade 1 title.
If you missed the action, no worries! Here's a look back at the biggest moments from Durban's most glamorous day.
Fashion stole the spotlight
This year's Country Allure theme inspired one of the strongest fashion displays in recent memory, with around 150 entrants competing in the Hollywoodbets Durban July Raceday Fashion Awards.
Elegant neutral palettes, African craftsmanship, textured fabrics and statement accessories dominated the runway as entrants interpreted the countryside-inspired brief.
Raceday Fashion Award winners
Most Striking Couple
- Pamela Shabane & Larnelle Maddocks
- Kevin Ellis & Gareth Greaves
- Kish Ramdewu & Cherilee Thangalan
Classic Racewear – Female
- Happiness Mkhwanazi
- Ciara Mikkelsen
- Nomonde Langa
Classic Racewear – Male
- Mnotho Ngema
- Siphesihle Mkhize
- Athenkosi Mfungula
Exceptional Raceday Hat or Fascinator
- Nirvana Nolene
Each category winner walked away with R5,000 cash, Gateway Theatre of Shopping gift cards and luxury prizes.
Young Designer’s future fashion stars
One of the day's most emotional moments came during the Hollywoodbets Young Designer Award, where Mlungisi Ndlovu from the Durban University of Technology claimed top honours.
Inspired by the markings of the Nguni cow, Ndlovu's couture creation perfectly captured the Country Allure brief through exceptional craftsmanship and innovative detailing, even using coffee to stain the fabric for its distinctive finish.
Young Designer winners
- Mlungisi Ndlovu (Durban University of Technology)
- Dalisu Vumase (iGoda Incubator)
- Thato Selekane (Durban University of Technology)
The overall winner received a R70,000 Hollywood Foundation bursary, a SA Fashion Week experience, R10,000 cash, and additional prizes.
Note To Self produces a thrilling finish
The day's biggest sporting moment came in the R10 million Hollywoodbets Durban July, where Note To Self produced a devastating late burst under Richard Fourie to deny filly Wish List victory in the closing stages.
The victory gave champion trainer Justin Snaith his sixth Durban July victory, moving him within one win of equalling the legendary Syd Laird's record.
The result also denied veteran jockey Andrew Fortune what would have been a dream fairytale ending aboard Wish List.
READ: Disappointment as Hollywoodbets Durban July favourite is scratched
Hollywoodbets Durban July (Grade 1) results
- Note To Self
- Wish List
- King Pelles
- Viva's Liberte
Speaking after the race, Fourie described the atmosphere as unforgettable: "There's no better feeling than winning it the first time, but today was just incredible. The sound from the crowd is something I'll never forget."
Trainer Justin Snaith revealed that Note To Self had battled illness after the Daily News 2000 but improved dramatically in the days leading up to the race: "I knew that if he came right, everyone was in trouble!"
Other big race winners
The Hollywoodbets Durban July card delivered quality racing throughout the afternoon, with several standout performances:
- Ridgemont Garden Province Stakes (Gr 1): Quickstepgal
- Post Merchants (Gr 3): Jet Force
- Zulu Kingdom Explorer (Gr 3): Magic Verse
- Durban Gold Vase (Gr 3): Ahead Of The Facts
- Golden Slipper (Gr 2): Palace of Arvenia
- Golden Horseshoe (Gr 2): Vibe Check
The 2026 Hollywoodbets Durban July once again cemented its place as one of South Africa's most iconic sporting and lifestyle events.
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