It’s not just another race meeting. It’s us against them, our team against the rest of the world, the ultimate test – just like a world cup.

That’s how Ryno du Plessis, Marketing Director at World Sports Betting, describes the upcoming World Sports Betting International Jockey Challenge supported by Sun International and Air Mauritius.

Although World Sports Betting is heavily involved in the South African racing arena, it is the first time the bookmaker will be involved in presenting an International Jockey Challenge, scheduled to take place on 16 November this year at the Turffontein Racecourse.

“The jockey challenge is a unique event and we feel that it fits in perfectly with our profile and with what we want to achieve,” said Du Plessis.

“We believe that the International Jockey Challenge will create a lot of hype and support among the South African public as it pits a national team against the best in the world.

“And we all know that South Africans from all walks of life are united when it comes to supporting our national teams.

“There will be a lot more than just a wager at stake on this raceday. It’s a matter of national pride.”

According to Du Plessis, the International Jockey Challenge is also another building block for World Sports Betting to expand their footprint in South African horseracing and a way to support the industry at a time when it needs all the support it can get.

With the International Jockey Challenge being run on the same day as the Monaco Million Maiden Sprint, sponsored by the Royal Family of Monaco, it is only fitting that the jockeys will also be given some royal treatment – thanks to Sun International.

“As the lifestyle partner to the jockey challenge, we will be providing accommodation for the jockeys at the Maslow Hotel in Sandton,” said Rob Dalton, Gaming Relationship Manager at Sun International.

“I’m fortunate that I know some of the international jockeys and they love coming to South Africa. Our country is still an exotic tourist destination because we have so many unique attractions.

“Sun City is one, and with the jockey challenge coinciding with the Nedbank Golf Challenge, we will definitely be taking the jockeys up to the Pilanesberg after the racing.

“The Palace is regarded as one of the most luxurious adventure destinations on the continent, so we look forward to hosting them there for a few days.

“And who knows, hopefully we’ll get an opportunity for a round on the Monday or Tuesday after the Nedbank Golf Challenge, providing their busy schedules allow it.”

According to Dalton, horseracing in South Africa still offers good value for money sponsorships thanks to the press coverage and of course Tellytrack, which broadcasts on DStv channel 239