Horseracing is a well-favoured pastime by many the world over and has a rich and varied history. Horseracing in South Africa is no exception. Today, horseracing forms an important part of the social calendar each year with prominent horseracing events that attract crowds from far and wide. If you are not familiar with how horseracing in South Africa began, let yourself be enlightened by continuing to read below.

Believe it or not, horseracing in South Africa began a significantly long time ago – as far back as 1791 sparked by European influence. Interestingly, the first known race club meeting that took place in South Africa is thought to have occurred around five years later in 1802. With over two hundred years of horseracing history recorded within our country alone, it is incredible to consider how far back horseracing goes! Currently, there are three prominent races that lead the sport within South Africa. The first of these is set in Turfontein, Johannesburg known as The Summer Cup, while Cape Town is host to the J & B Met and Durban, Greyville holds The Vodacom July. The latter of which was recorded to have began in the late 19th Century around 1897 at the same grounds where it is still held today.
As horseracing in South Africa became more established two bodies came into existence that controlled and regulated the sport. These are referred to as Phumelela Gaming and Leisure Limited together with Gold Circle. Each organization regulates horseracing in different areas within South Africa.
The former overseas horseracing in the Free State, Northern Cape, Eastern Cape and Gauteng while Gold Circle has control over Kwazulu-Natal and the Western Cape. When it comes to betting on horseracing events held in South Africa, you will see Saftote advertised alongside Phumelela and Gold Circle. The well-known US-based company, Maryland, controls the betting system itself. There are now over ten prominent racecourses around the country, testimony to the role horseracing in South Africa plays. It is quite remarkable to see that such a long since established sport still maintains its standing within South African culture.