The countdown is on for the 164th L'Ormarins King's Plate, which will take place on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at the Hollywoodbets Kenilworth Race Track in Cape Town.
Known as the premier weight-for-age mile in South Africa, the event is offering a significant prize money increase, with R3 million up for grabs for the top runners in the Grade 1 feature race, which marks a 50% increase from last year
As always, the L'Ormarins King's Plate kicks off the Cape Summer Season, establishing itself as the first Grade 1 feature of the new year.
With a rich history dating back to 1861, when Queen Victoria awarded the original silver plate to the winner, the race has evolved into a major celebration of horse-racing and elegance.
Previous winners include champion sires Jet Master and Gimmethegreenlight, as well as multiple Equus award-winning champions Pocket Power, Do It Again, Jet Dark and Charles Dickens.
But let’s not forget the real fun: the fashion. The King’s Plate is known for its chic blue-and-white dress code, which serves as the perfect backdrop for Mzansi's A-listers to flex their style.
The blue and white dress code has become synonymous with the event, with attendees encouraged to embrace classic sophistication, much like its international counterparts, Royal Ascot, Goodwood Festival and the Kentucky Derby.
This blend of racing heritage and contemporary style attracts some of the best-dressed individuals and high-profile celebrities, making it one of the most fashionable dates on the calendar.
Last year was no exception, with celebrities bringing their A-game. South African actor Siv Ngesi turned heads in a stylish Thebe Magugu Heirloom shirt while stylist Sheth Shezi went for classic elegance with white linen pants, a blue blazer and a white shirt.
Award-winning fashionista Yaya Mavundla brought dramatic flair, donning a blue maxi dress paired with voluminous white sleeves and a blue bowtie, finished off with a striking white fascinator.
In previous years, the event has been graced by a host of well-known faces, from local celebrities to international visitors.
Last year's highlights included Boity Thulo, Sarah Langa and Maps Maponyane, who lit up the event with their fashion choices.
As anticipation builds for the 2025 edition, fans can look forward to more than just horse racing.
Packages for Stud Club and Style Village tickets will be available by November, promising patrons a premium experience filled with excitement, glamour and a celebration of South African racing heritage.