The Real Prince Claims Durban July Crown in Thrilling Finish!
Greyville Racecourse was buzzing on Saturday as a record crowd descended for the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July, Africa's premier horseracing event. The atmosphere was electric, blending high-stakes racing with dazzling fashion and a celebration of South African culture under the theme “Marvels of Mzansi”.
All eyes were on the main event, and The Real Prince didn't disappoint. The Dean Kannemeyer-trained horse, ridden by Craig Zackey, delivered a stunning performance to win the Grade One R5 million race. The Real Prince narrowly edged out pre-race favourite Eight On Eighteen in a nail-biting finish. Selukwe secured third place, followed by Royal Victory in fourth.
“The Real Prince’s full brother Gimme A Prince was crowned Champion Sprinter two seasons back, so there was always a question mark hanging over his ability to stay the 2200m trip of the July,” Hollywoodbets stated. But The Real Prince silenced any doubts with a determined run, proving his stamina and grit.
Eight On Eighteen, aiming to become the first three-year-old to win both the Grade One World Sports Betting Cape Met and the July in the same season, put up a strong fight. However, Zackey's strategic ride on The Real Prince proved to be the winning formula. Early pace was dictated by Oriental Charm, keeping the field tight. Eight On Eighteen faced challenges finding the rail early on but made a powerful surge towards the final turn. Ultimately, The Real Prince's late surge secured the victory.
Kannemeyer celebrated his fourth Durban July win, and his second for Lady Christine Laidlaw and Khaya Stables. Reflecting on the win, Kannemeyer noted the strategic planning involved: “Where were we going to place him? The first time we tried him over a mile he won by six lengths. Great run in the Drill Hall.”
The 2025 Durban July will be remembered for its thrilling finish and The Real Prince's unexpected triumph, adding another exciting chapter to the history of this iconic South African event.