Oriental Charm Tops Early Betting for 2025 Durban July

(The Post News)– The race to the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July has officially begun, with defending champion Oriental Charm emerging as the early favourite in the ante-post betting market. With just over four months to go until the prestigious event on 5 July at Hollywoodbets Greyville, the field remains wide open, and plenty can still change before race day.

Hollywoodbets opened the pre-nomination betting on Monday morning, placing Oriental Charm at the top of the boards following his stellar performance last year. Breathing down his neck is Eight On Eighteen, the recent Cape Town Met and Cape Derby victor. However, the Snaith team has hinted that he may bypass the Durban July altogether, leaving punters wondering whether he will take up the challenge or sit this one out.

The excitement in the lead-up to the big race was further fuelled by an impressive showing from Joey Soma’s Fiery Pegasus at Turffontein on Saturday. Her victory in the Wilgerbosdrift Gr1 SA Fillies Classic has positioned her as a serious contender for the season ahead. Meanwhile, Sean Tarry’s Cosmic Speed found his rhythm in the Wilgerbosdrift HF Oppenheimer Gr1 Horse Chestnut Stakes, earning himself a solid spot at 25-2 on the betting board. Fire Attack, the TAB Gr1 SA Classic runner-up, also made waves by giving Confederate a tough chase and now shares the same 25-2 odds.

Adding to the anticipation, Hollywoodbets unveiled the official theme for the 2025 Durban July on 28 February. Titled ‘Marvels of Mzansi,’ the theme celebrates South Africa’s vibrant heritage, cultural richness, and stunning landscapes, paying homage to the country’s remarkable achievements.

As the countdown to race day continues, fans can look forward to the spectacle of Africa’s greatest horse racing event. Tickets for the Hollywoodbets Durban July will be available from April on the Ticketpro website.