It’s on your marks; get set, and go for the annual Dundee July, a rural horseracing event that brings the sleepy town of Dundee in northern KwaZulu-Natal alive.
The race, which originated in the eNdumeni region of Dundee, a former coal town, has expanded tremendously.
On Tuesday, senior government officials, emerging fashionistas, and horse enthusiasts attended a glittering ceremony to launch it.
“The Dundee July is not only about horses, but it also stimulates the local economy,” Mntomuhle Khawula, KwaZulu-Natal MEC for sport, arts, and culture, told Sunday World.
“Millions are injected into the economy of the district. Moreover, events such as Dundee July fit into the government’s plan to develop and revitalise rural towns.”
Promotion of social cohesion
Khawula also said the event, preceded by a cultural parade, has also assisted in unearthing young fashion designers who would not have had the opportunity.
“It has also developed traditional horseracing into a competitive sport, bringing much-needed income to horse owners and jockeys,” he said.
The event has since been dubbed the mini-July to mimic the famous Durban July being hosted in Durban’s Greyville this weekend.
Locals previously used the rural horseracing event to promote social cohesion and create enduring bonds between communities.
Horses are given names like Nxakanxaka, Sgqebhezana, Mashonisa, Inguyazana, uMbayimbayi, and other names that are common in everyday rural life.
Local mayor Siyabonga Ndlovu said that although the Dundee July was launched as a signature event for the mostly rural district, attracting domestic and international tourists, poor road networks have often undermined the gains.
Poor road networks
“We have a rich history in this area, and Dundee July has helped us market our heritage underpinned on battlefields,” said Ndlovu.
“But the poor road networks have somehow disadvantaged us because there are areas rich in history that are inaccessible for tourists.
“We have made the call to both the provincial and national governments to assist us.”
The event has seen gradual growth over the past few years.
In 2023, for the first time, betting facilities were available on site, allowing punters to place bets on their favourite horses.
Alpha and Omega galloped home with R300 000 in prize money for 2023 and installments, while jockey Lindani Dube snatched R30 000 for riding the winning horse.
This year’s event will be hosted on July 20 at the Dundee horseracing track.
