The 2024 Betway Summer Cup delivered drama, exhilaration, and unforgettable moments at Turffontein Racecourse. As Africa’s richest race with record-breaking stakes, the R6 million event lived up to its billing, drawing top-class competitors and a lively crowd. Alec Laird’s Atticus Finch, ridden by Calvin Habib, claimed a sensational victory, bringing the Varsfontein Stud-bred gelding back into the spotlight.

The five-year-old, who had not won since the Betway Grade 3 Victory Moon Stakes over a year ago, defied his 20-1 odds with a gutsy performance. Benefiting from lessons learned in last year’s Summer Cup, a meticulous preparation, and Habib’s deft riding, Atticus Finch surged late to clinch the title.

Habib, who initially planned to lead, had to adapt after his mount took a bump from Main Defender at the start. "I had to take my medicine," he said after the race. "But this horse gives his all, and I’m thrilled with his effort."

The gelding completed the 2000m trip in 125.47 seconds, overtaking the determined Purple Pitcher (14-1) to win by 1.10 lengths. Tristan Godden produced a late surge aboard Rule By Force (33-1) to claim third, while KZN visitor Madison Valley (100-1) ran the race of his life to finish fourth. The quartet payout was an eye-popping R224,437, reflecting the race’s unpredictability and competitive field.

There were disappointments among the favorites. See It Again, tipped as a leading contender, faded late under Piere Strydom to finish fifth, 2.50 lengths behind the winner. Defending champion Royal Victory struggled from a wide draw and finished outside the placings. Oisin Murphy’s mount, Frances Ethel, was prominent early but weakened to finish 6.25 lengths back, while Main Defender failed to stay the distance.

Trainer Alec Laird celebrated his third Summer Cup victory, following wins with Malteme (2006) and Flying Carpet (2021). A hoarse but jubilant Laird said, "This win lifts the stable and comes at a great time."

Bred by Varsfontein Stud, Atticus Finch is by Master Of My Fate (out of the Caesour mare Alexia). A R150,000 purchase at the National Yearling Sale, he has now won six races and placed seven times from 18 starts, amassing earnings of R4,237,000 for thrilled owners Lance Clark, Gary Basel, Gary Cornwall, and Phil Gregory.

Adding to the celebration, each groom of the Summer Cup runners received a record-breaking R20,000 incentive, recognizing their vital role in the sport.

The day wasn’t without surprises in other races. Mike de Kock’s reigning Horse of the Year, Dave The King, failed to fire in a Pinnacle Stakes prep for the 2025 L’Ormarins King’s Plate, finishing over 12 lengths behind 40-1 outsider Fire ‘N Flames as well as Greatrix who was upset by star filly Quid Pro Quo, in the Dingaans. Greatrix went off as the 8/10 favourite but wasn't disgraced in 3rd. Fiery Pegasus was the crowd favourite with Oisin Murphy onboard and the well backed commodity had the race in the bag in all places bar the line as she was run down by World Of Alice.

Despite some upsets, the 2024 Betway Summer Cup was a resounding success, combining world-class racing, vibrant fashion, luxurious hospitality, and family entertainment. The roar of the crowd and the thrilling finish cemented the race’s place as a Highveld showpiece—and a day to remember for all involved.

Image: 4Racing