The Cape Town Met, South Africa’s premier horse racing event, is a blend of tradition, glamour, and high-stakes competition. Celebrating its 162nd edition, this historic race, formerly known as the Sun Met, boasts a R5 million purse and attracts the nation’s finest racehorses. The event is not just about the race; it’s a sophisticated spectacle that combines fashion, celebrity presence, and the thrill of betting.
Dating back to its first official race in 1883 as The Metropolitan Mile, the event, now simply ‘The Met’, has been a staple in the social calendar. Held annually on the last Saturday in January, the Cape Town Met draws over 50,000 spectators to the Kenilworth Racecourse.
This gathering isn’t just for horse racing enthusiasts; it’s a celebration of style, with a fashion theme each year and awards for the Best Dressed Couple. The race itself is a significant contest that levels the playing field for South Africa’s elite racehorses.
This year’s event, the World Sports Betting Cape Town Met, will be held on 27 January 2024, at the newly renovated Hollywoodbets Kenilworth. Dubbed ‘Cape Splendour’, it pays homage to the rich racing history of Cape Town and brings an air of contemporary culture to the traditional event. Attendees can expect lavish hospitality, gourmet food, high-end fashion, and thrilling races.
The event promises entertainment with a mystery line-up of local live performances and guest DJs. As the jockeys vie for the ultimate title, the Cape Town Met stands as the social event of the season, a testament to the enduring allure of horse racing in South Africa.
