Johannesburg’s biggest horseracing event and one of the city’s top lifestyle and fashion attractions, the Betway Summer Cup, burst back into life today as punters flocked to a vibrant Turffontein Racecourse in droves.

Dubbed ‘The Golden Summer’ as a tribute to the City of Gold’s return to bustling events and activity, punters and racegoers heeded the theme with fashion that was a glittering sight, as racegoers embraced the Golden Summer theme on an entertaining race day hosted by racing operator, 4Racing.

The 2022 Betway Summer Cup was won by the fantastic horse Puerto Manzano, who was ridden by Keagan de Melo for trainer Johan Janse van Vuuren and owner Laurence Wernars, who took home the coveted golden trophy in the R2.5 million stake. 

The event was highlighted by the presence of the Durban July winner, Sparkling Water, but to much disappointment from the crowd, the star mare failed to deliver for once and finished mid field. The race ran to form in many ways with loyal racing patron Laurence Werners taking the showpiece onboard Charity Mile runner up, Puerto Manzano. Safe Passage ran second and Aragosta in 3rd.

Award-winning singer Lady Zamar got the crowd on their feet with her half-time show, performing her famous hits, Citizen and Love is blind, before the main event.

The rain clouds were began to threaten 30 mins before the main event but they remain just a threat as the day was completed without any weather issues. 

The only race day to feature a half-time show, taking inspiration from the NFL, the Betway Summer Cup half-time show also featured a colourful blend of performers including a delightful display from drum majorettes, cheer leaders, and a spectacular fashion show by the Spero Villioti Elite Design Academy.

“We are thrilled to have hosted a successful 2022 Betway Summer Cup, together with our sponsors and partners that made Johannesburg’s biggest horse racing experience come to life. This was truly the People’s race, with thousands of people enjoying a beautifully sunny day, excellent entertainment and thrilling races,” said Fundi Sithebe, CEO of 4Racing.

The Honourable Johannesburg Mayor Mpho Phalatse attended the event, together with, amongst others, Gauteng MEC for Infrastructure Development and Property Management Tasneem Motara, The Wife actress Mbalenhle Mavimbela, Kaizer Chiefs Marketing Director Jessica Motaung, and Carte Blanche’s Claire Mawisa.

The famous garden-themed Golden Summer marquee was a floral affair, hosting the majority of racegoers with a premium view of the finish line. DJ, media personality and businesswoman, DJ Zinhle lit up the celebrity-filled dance floor, along with Amapiano star Boohle, at the luxurious Voguish Marquee with an electrifying performance.

This year’s sponsors included headline sponsors Betway, Johannesburg Tourism, Jonsson Workwear, DStv and SABC Sport as broadcast partners, showing the horse racing event live from Turffontein on the day.