The racing world is abuzz with anticipation: will Justin Snaith’s star 3-year-old, Eight On Eighteen, compete in the R5 million Hollywoodbets Gr1 Durban July? Fresh off a decisive victory in Saturday’s Gr1 Daily News 2000, the connections are carefully considering their options. Final declarations for the prestigious race, set for July 5, close at 11 a.m. on June 23.

The Million-Dollar Question

Racing enthusiasts are eager to know if Nic jonsson and Johann Rupert’s Grade 1-winning colt will participate in the historic Durban July. The decision, according to Jonathan Snaith, is not being taken lightly.

It’s a decision that needs plenty of contemplation and consideration and one that will be made in the best interests of the horse and his future.
Jonathan Snaith

Original Plans and shifting Perspectives

Back in March, the focus was primarily on “stallion-making features,” including the Gr1 Daily News 2000 and the Gr1 Champions Cup at season’s end. Eight On Eighteen’s recent performance,though,has amplified public interest.

While the original plan remains, the durban July’s allure and challenges are undeniable. The plan hasn’t changed, but naturally there is more public awareness and interest after his top performance on Saturday. Snaith acknowledged. He further emphasized the demanding nature of the race:

We are looking at the bigger picture, and are very well aware that the Hollywoodbets Durban July is a tough and no-holds barred race. As Justin (Snaith) said after the Daily News on Saturday, when the gates flash open in the July, the jockeys practically lose their heads and it’s all eyes on a prize that everybody wants. We will make the announcement when the decision has been made, and we are very aware of the weight of public interest.
Jonathan Snaith

handicapping and Ratings

Eight on Eighteen’s impressive win led to a meaningful increase in his rating by the national Horseracing Authority (NHA) handicappers, now standing at 129. If the Durban July were held today, he would carry 57kg, technically 2kg well-in due to the 3-year-old cap.His stablemate, Okavango, received a bump to 120 and would carry 54.5kg.

Currently, Eight On Eighteen is ranked joint fourth highest-rated galloper, alongside Montien, trailing Gimme A Prince (134), One Stripe (132), and Main Defender (130).

Snaith’s Durban July History

Justin Snaith, a leading contender in the SA Champion trainer log, aims to secure his sixth Durban July victory. The stable’s last win was in 2020 with Belgarion,following Do It Again’s triumphs in 2018 and 2019.

Betting Odds and Punters’ perspectives

Hollywoodbets has priced Eight On Eighteen at 5-2 in the ante-post market. Patrick Bradley, a spokesperson for Hollywoodbets, suggests that punters should consider the potential outcome of the connections’ decision.

It all boils down to opinion. If you feel Eight On Eighteen going to run, then he is well-priced as he’d probably be around 2-1, when confirmed. The positive for those whose fancies lie elsewhere, is that Eight On Eighteen’s firming in the market has meant that there is value to be had amongst a number of the other entries.
Patrick Bradley

Key Dates

• Second declarations close: June 9, 11 a.m.
• Final supplementary entries close: June 17, 11 a.m. (weights published)
• Final Declarations close: June 23, 11 a.m.
• Final field and draw announcement: June 24
• Official gallops: June 26
• Final field: 20 horses (18 + 2 Reserves)
• Reserves to be scratched by: July 4, 8:15 a.m.