Organisers leave it late to announce the field
David Mollett (Business Day)
Have the organisers erred in announcing the field for the R2.5m Betway Summer Cup just five days before the race is run?
That’s the question being asked with the 20-horse line-up at Turffontein due to be released only next Monday.
“There’s no strong interest in the Summer Cup for the simple reason nobody knows what’s running and which jockeys are riding who,” said highveld bookmaker Lance Michael on Wednesday.
Michael said that the field for the Durban July is always announced 10-14 days before the race is run.
Racing publications are on the streets 24 hours later allowing punters plenty of time to study form and place early bets if they so desire.
Nevertheless, according to a 4Racing media release following the race’s launch at Turffontein last week, a great day’s racing is in prospect with a large crowd expected at the city track.
4Racing CEO Fundi Sithebe said: “We are excited for the return of the highly anticipated Betway Summer Cup, the people’s race, and one of the most exciting days on the SA horseracing calendar.
“With a group of dynamic sponsors and partners on board, 4Racing aims to create an unforgettable horseracing experience filled with electric racing, fantastic entertainment and an amazing day on the track for all punters.”
Phillip Superamonien, Betway SA manager, said: “Betway is extremely honoured to become the headline sponsor of the Summer Cup. This opportunity allows us to innovatively demonstrate our fully fledged offering to our ever growing and diverse customer base.
“We’re sincerely committed to playing our part to re-energise the horseracing industry and will continue to do so.”
