My Summer Cup runneth over
The annual G-Bets Summer Cup, also dubbed the “People’s Race” is one of the most prestigious sporting events on South African soil, and although the best thoroughbreds in the country will headline proceedings in the R2-million showpiece, the day will also be accompanied by enough entertainment to satisfy you and your entire family.
Make your way to Turffontein racecourse for the Grade 1 race on Saturday, 1 December, or you may find yourself suffering from what millennials call FOMO – fear of missing out. When doors open at 11:00 the event will do what it’s done since its inception in 1897, and that’s to unite people from different walks of life.
If you have no transportation, fear not, the organisers have got you covered. At a reasonable price of R75, the General Access ticket will not only get you into Turffontein, it will also afford you the opportunity to enjoy a free shuttle service to and from the course. The two pick up spots are Kitcheners in Braamfontein and Maponya Mall in Soweto.
Buses will run between the two venues and Turffontein from 11:00 to 14:00 and returning buses from 18:00 to 21:00. The last bus will leave Turffontein at 21:00. Make sure you keep an eye on the time!
This year’s theme is Summer Chic, so dress up, you never know who you may bump into at the various marquees and hospitality areas.
Last year the A-list celebrities included multiple award-winning music group Mi Casa, television personalities Thembi Seete, Khanyi Mbau and Isidingo actress Tema Sebopedi.
Taking place right before the Summer Cup will be the half-time show that was officially launched last year. This time around the spectacle will feature an eclectic line-up, headlined by electronic music band Good Luck, whose latest radio single Chasing Dreams is in heavy rotation.
The trio will be joined by drum majorettes, a massive field band, a choir and dancers. But that’s not where the fun stops!
While you structure your permutations and visit the totes, in the hopes of catching the Pick 6, which is estimated to reach a life changing R7.5 million, the kids can experience the world-class carnival, complete with a giant ferris wheel, mechanical rides, a jumping castle, face painters, mimes, clowns, and much, much more.
Access for children 18 and under is only R20. Be sure to pre-purchase Family Zone tickets for just R100. This secure family-only area is perfectly situated right near the carnival and Standside track finish line, therefore you kill two birds with one stone – the kids are kept occupied all day long while you focus on the racing.
Also check out the many extravagant marquees and hospitality areas, where fashion shows and musical performances will abound.
Other areas worth visiting are the Funmasters Picnic (R150) and Summer Garden (R295).