The 2025 edition of South Africa’s most prestigious horse racing event, the Hollywoodbets Durban July, delivered high drama and unforgettable excitement as The Real Prince, a 4-year-old thoroughbred, stormed to victory at Greyville Racecourse in Durban on July 6, 2025.
Trained by the seasoned Dean Kannemeyer and expertly ridden by jockey Craig Zackey, The Real Prince pulled off a stunning performance, surging ahead in the final stretch to beat race favourite Eight On Eighteen, trained by Justin Snaith and ridden by Richard Fourie, in a nail-biting finish. The victory not only thrilled the tens of thousands of fans in attendance but also marked Kannemeyer’s fourth Durban July triumph—a testament to his enduring presence and strategic brilliance in South African racing.
Kannemeyer credited the win to meticulous planning and flawless execution, stating that the team had carefully considered the horse’s draw position, weight allocation, and race timing in preparing for this high-stakes event. “Everything came together perfectly,” he noted. “The Real Prince showed his true class and heart when it mattered most.”
The 2025 race unfolded under the vibrant theme “Marvels of Mzansi”, celebrating the spirit, culture, and resilience of South Africa. The day was as much about fashion and flair as it was about competition, with racegoers dressed in eye-catching ensembles, celebrities and dignitaries in attendance, and a lively social scene on full display.
This edition of the Durban July will be remembered not just for its fashion and festivities, but for the unforgettable moment when The Real Prince etched his name into the history books. His commanding finish, combined with Zackey’s confident ride and Kannemeyer’s experienced guidance, made for a storybook victory on the nation’s biggest racing stage.
