Matchem Stakes at Durbanville Racecourse

Kick-off the Capetonian racing calendar with a fabulous showdown in the Northern Suburbs

The longer days and warmer weather signals the approaching summer, which is synonymous for grand horse racing events and high stakes betting challenges for equestrian lovers. South Africa arguably hosts some of the most lavish races in the world, such as The Met or the Durban July, which sees thousands of impeccably dressed attendees gather to watch and place their bets on the fastest fillies and colts.

The upcoming summer season of horse races gets off to gallop on Sunday, 9 October 2016 when the Matchem Stakes (Gr3) and the Diana Stakes (Gr3) take place at the Durbanville Racecourse. Although the event is one of the smaller races of the season, with a grand prize of R250 000 for the winning jockey, the Matchem Stakes still promises the exquisite haute couture and adrenaline fuelled sprints that the other horse races provide.

This family-friendly affair has been going strong since 1958, and apart from the sculpted horses bolting down the turf, there are plenty of activities to keep you and your little ones entertained. For a nominal fee of R20, your kids can run wild in the play area and expend some energy on the jumping castles. A delicious range of food and tasty treats will be provided by the selection of food trucks and stalls, and to wash it all down you can grab an ice cold craft beer or refreshing non-alcoholic beverage from the drink stalls.

Be sure to catch the Jockeys’ Chase 400m Sprint as well, which is a fundraising race to support the Western Cape Equine Trust, which facilitates the re-homing of ex-thoroughbreds and racehorses.

ENTRY TO THE 2016 MATCHEM STAKES AT DURBANVILLE RACECOURSE

General access to the opening horse race of the season is free. Gates open at 11am. For more information, phone +27 (0)21 700 1600.

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Interested in other equestrian events in the Mother City? Check out our overview of the upcoming season of Horse Racing at the Kenilworth Racecourse.

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