31 July 2010

Summary report and photos from the Vodacom Durban July

Durban - Pre race favourite Bold Silvano and Irish Flame provided a fitting climax to a classic Vodacom Durban July as they fought it out stride for stride down the home straight lined with 50 000 screaming racegoers enjoying a record breaking event under ideal fashion-friendly warm sunny skies.

With President Jacob Zuma in attendance to hand over the sash to the winner Bold Silvano, the celebrity laced crowd applauded Mike de Kock for his unique 1-2, giving jockey Anthony Delpech another victory in this famous race.

This was victory number three for both De Kock and Delpech. De Kock had previously won with the brilliant filly Ipi Tombe and Greys Inn while Delpech had won on Classic Flag and also Greys Inn. For the people who believe in these things, Delpech’s three wins came six years apart and Bold Silvano carried saddle cloth number six.

Off the track the raceday theme provided a feisty floral spectacle as fashionistas and socialites dressed to the nine reflecting the theme "Its a Blooming Great Day", providing a captivating colourful tapestry across Greyville Racecourse.

DUT student Sheena Unwin scooped the prestigious Vodacom Durban July Young Designer Award title for her striking interpretation of theme. "It's not meant to be pretty, its designed to get people to think about using plants on an experimental level," she said.

The Vodacom Durban July Fashion Challenge title went to another DUT graduate Claire Mackensie, whose shift dress with bold tubular floral details drew gasps from the crowd assembled in front of the fashion stage.

The raceday competitions attracted a colourful feast for the spectators on course before the first race, where the judges shortlisted the finalists on the best dressed and most Avant Garde competitions.

ENDS

Nkosi Hlope/ Gameplan Media