Greyville Racecourse Review
- ● Address: 150 Avondale Road, Greyville, 4001, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal
- ● Phone: +27 31 314 1651
- ● Opening hours: Dependent on racedays. The tote is open to the general public as soon as the racecourse opens.
A Racing Track And So Much More
Established in the late 19th century, the historical Greyville racecourse is home to one of the most prestigious horse racing events in South Africa. It also boasts a number of unique features that make it a splendid venue for other non-racing events.
The racetrack has had the honour of hosting the likes of Queen Elizabeth II, the Duke of Edinburgh, and other dignitaries from all corners of the globe.
A Racecourse Fit For Champions
The Durban racecourse is the home of South Africa’s Champion Season, which runs from May all the way through to July. The programme includes illustrious Grade 1 races such as the Rising Sun Gold Challenge, the Daily News 2000, the Gold Cup Festival, and the wildly popular Durban July.
The Greyville racecourse sports a turf track and a Polytrack which was introduced in 2014. The right-handed racecourse is pear-shaped and covers a distance of 2800 metres, of which 2400 metres are positioned under floodlights.
The circuit contains unusual gradients and undulations with both uphill and downhill sections. That’s the result of two subways, which were built to accommodate a road that passes underneath the racecourse. These serve the purpose of connecting the leafy suburb of Berea to the city centre.
The Polytrack is positioned within the turf track and covers a distance of 2000 metres with a 400-metre run-in. It is renowned for its seven months of night racing events which are held on Friday evenings. These have become increasingly popular among visitors of all ages, particularly for the variety of entertainment they offer.
A special section of the racecourse is reserved for the Kidzone, which provides an array of children’s activities. This safe, fun-filled facility gives parents a chance to enjoy a night at the races with the whole family.
Enjoy A Round of Golf and Other Outdoor Pleasures
If you’re intent on playing 18 holes, the infield at the Greyville racetrack serves as the Royal Durban Golf Club’s Championship golf course, which is available to golfers on non-racedays.
The racetrack grounds also comprise the Greyville Convention Centre, which features eight spectacular venues that can accommodate 50 to 1600 guests. Among these, the phenomenal 1750-square metre Silver Ring room is perfect for banquets, indoor conferences, corporate functions, theatre performances, and weddings. Exquisite chandeliers, a professional sound system, Wi-Fi access, video conferencing, and an on-site professional kitchen are also part of the package.
Not strictly affiliated with the racecourse but located directly next to it is the splendid Durban Light Infantry – or DLI – Hall. The space, which is available for hire, comes complete with a dedicated team of organisers and service staff. Having opened its doors in 1904, this setting continues to be the venue of choice for a multitude of events, especially wedding receptions.
Explore Betting Opportunities On Greyville Turf
When you visit Greyville, you’ll be able to bet on the horses at a number of totes spread throughout the main building. And, with most races spread 25 to 40 minutes apart, you’ve also got more than enough time to check the latest sports results or place an online wager at a trusted gaming site directly on your mobile.
The racecourse at Greyville is packed with horse racing activity and entertainment throughout the year. If you’re after an action-packed day at the races, this track is definitely worth a visit.