It is time for the Hollywoodbets Durban July’s economic boost for the city of eThekwini, in KwaZulu-Natal(KZN), when the horse race of the year takes place on the first Saturday of July. The event attracts thousands of visitors with plenty of money to spend in the city that has faced quite a few headwinds over the past few years. Last year’s Hollywoodbets Durban July contributed to the recovery of the tourism and hospitality sector with an event that was packed to capacity to see jockey Kabelo Matsunyane, riding Winchester Mansion, score the biggest trump of his career when he was crowned the winner.
The Greyville Racecourse was packed to capacity with more than 50,000 spectators at Africa’s biggest horseracing event. Then-mayor Mxolisi Kaunda said afterwards that projections indicate 1 500 jobs were created through the event which was expected to contribute about R130 million to the municipality. ALSO READ: Final field unveiled for Durban July Jobs and money Direct spend from the event was expected to reach R65 million, with hotel occupancy at an expected 75%, although the industry reported reaching over 85% occupancy rates.
Kaunda said the major boost to the local economy, which eventually ended up being R431 million, was welcomed. “Businesses across various sectors, including the informal economy, experienced a boost as there was direct spend from this sector. Businesses that gained this weekend were fashion and textile, transport, hair and beauty and fast food tak.
