A day at the races - without booze or betting - is proving a popular option for some patrons of the Durban July.
|||Durban - A day at the races, sans booze or bets, may not be in keeping with tradition, but it is proving a popular option for patrons of this year’s Durban July.
So-called “VVIP” tickets to the Andile KaMajola Gospel Lounge marquee, which cost R4 500 each, were sold out on Thursday and only five general tickets, costing R1 000 apiece, were left.
The Durban July’s first religious-themed marquee was the brainchild of, and has been named for, pastor and gospel artist Andile KaMajola.
“It is aimed at those people who love the Durban July, but not the noise, alcohol, mini skirts and cigars often associated with it,” KaMajola said on Thursday.
Revealing outfits and alcohol are banned and there are no betting stations on site.
“Our vision of what the Durban July is all about involves networking and having fun, not gambling and boozing,” said KaMajola.
Patrons of his marquee will be entertained by comedians, “modest” fashion shows, motivational speakers and some of South Africa’s gospel greats, including KaMajola.
KaMajola was looking forward to the weekend, and he was not the only one.
Gold Circle spokeswoman Gill Simpkins said preparations for the premier horse-racing event were going “exceptionally well”.
“All the marquees are up and decorators are now hard at work,” she said last night.
Ticket sales had gone “through the roof”, and Simpkins said organisers expected they would sell out.
“My advice to anyone wanting to attend is to go out and buy a ticket,” she said.
“Do not just pitch up on the day hoping to get one at the door.”
The Mercury