Turffontein Racecourse Review

● Address:14 Turf Club St, West Turffontein, Johannesburg South, 2190, Gauteng
● Phone:+27 11 681 1500
● Opening hours:Dependent on racedays. The tote is open to the general public as soon as the racecourse opens.

Visit Johannesburg’s 19th-Century Racecourse

One of South Africa’s oldest racecourses built back in 1887, Turffontein is considered to be among the country’s premier local horse racing venues.

This Johannesburg racecourse is steeped in history. Over the years, it has played host to spectacular races that have seen South Africa’s most beloved equine champions electrify horse racing fans and punters alike.

A Look At The Turrfontein Track’s Features

The Turffontein racecourse is composed of two tracks, namely the standside and the inside track. The standside track is a 2700-metre oval track with an 800-metre run-in and a 1200-metre straight course. The inside track is a 2500-metre near-oval circuit with a 500-metre run-in and a 1200-metre straight course.

Both tracks rise ten to 12 metres and are regarded as the stiffest tracks in the country due to their steady climb. This means that horses racing from well off the pace have the opportunity to make an impression. Such a layout also unavoidably presents strenuous circumstances for race participants, which in turn translates into thrilling action on the tracks.

Turffontein’s racecourse underwent extensive refurbishment in recent years. Works included the addition of floodlights for the ever-popular night racing that is held on the standside track during the summer season.

On top of that, the parade ring was moved to the front of the course. This has made it accessible to race-goers, who can now view both horses and jockeys as they saddle up.

Horse Racing Events For Every Season

The circuit at Turffontein is located in the southern suburbs of Johannesburg, only three kilometres from the city’s CBD. Easily accessible by a number of safe routes from all major highways, it’s also in close proximity to airports and metropolitan areas.

The course hosts a number of prominent races and features more than 40 racedays throughout the year. The annual Summer Cup, held in November, is the highlight of the Gauteng racing season. Attended by extravagant fashionistas and accompanied by live entertainment, this impressive event is one of the biggest racedays in the horse racing calendar, alongside the prestigious Sun Met and the dramatic Durban July.

The Champions Cup also takes place at the Turffontein racecourse. Holding a combined purse in excess of R10 million, this raceday is the South African equivalent of the famed Breeders’ Cup held in the USA. The excellent night racing in summer also attracts large crowds to the circuit year after year.

Spend A Day At The Races

Visitors at the Turffontein racetrack can bet on the horses at a number of totes that are conveniently spread throughout the main building. Most races are spread 25 to 40 minutes apart, allowing you plenty of time to research online bookmakers offering the very best match bonuses in South Africa.

In addition to the totes, on-site you’ll find a children’s play area, take away establishments, restaurants, and a sports bar. All these facilities make Turffontein a well-rounded racecourse which offers hours of entertainment for everyone.

You can dine in at one of the numerous food establishments located within the main building. Inside, the elevated glass-fronted rooms that top the grandstand offer you dramatic views of the inside and standside tracks, as well as of Johannesburg’s iconic skyline. The vibrant sports bar is where punters can catch up on the basketball scores and the SA Lotto Plus draws.

A Venue For All Occasions

14 multipurpose venues are spread throughout the racecourse complex. These are ideal for accommodating a wide variety of events such as corporate breakfasts, cocktail parties, conferences, exhibitions, seminars, weddings, and more.

Turffontein is a refreshing alternative to conventional venues. It is equipped with award-winning chefs, experienced audiovisual technicians, and competent event coordinators who work to make every event a memorable one. All 14 spaces enjoy fantastic views and are available in varying sizes, with the largest one accommodating up to 900 people and the smallest catering for up to 60 guests.

Ultimately, the focus at the Turffontein racecourse lies in giving visitors a great horse racing experience. Each time you pay a visit to the Turffontein racecourse, you know you’re in for a great day at the track.