Turffontein Racecourse has a well-deserved reputation as an icon of Johannesburg South. It is a venue well-known by Gauteng's horse racing enthusiasts - and by those who like to take an occasional flutter on the horses. Visitors love this venue for its stunning views of Joburg's skyline, the excitement of the races and the general atmosphere and camaraderie to be found on race day and at other events hosted here. As a highly regarded real estate agency in Gauteng, Seeff takes a look at four of the factors giving rise to Turffontein's iconic status.
Factor 1: It's a racecourse conducive to excitement
The racecourse presents horses and riders with a stiff climb to the finish and the facility's Standside track is described by Phumelela Gaming as "the most testing circuit in South Africa". This certainly makes things more interesting for both the riders and those placing a wager on the outcome of any race held here. Turffontein's Standside track forms a 2 700m oval shape, while the inside track is 2 500m in diameter, sharing a common pull-up area with the Standside track. All races at Turffontein are run clockwise.
Factor 2: It's a venue steeped in history
Having been established in 1892, the racecourse is a grand old lady of Johannesburg - as is the entire suburb of Turffontein. The foundations of the original grandstands were laid in 1893, and in 1897, gold was discovered deep beneath the race course, and mining operations began 1.5 km below the surface. Throughout this mining, racing continued as planned, far above the miners at work.
Turffontein Racecourse also made South African history books for its involvement in the South African War which took place from 1899 to 1902. During this time, the racecourse was closed to make space for the Transvaal's largest concentration camp. More than 5 000 Boer women and children were imprisoned here.
More recently, in 2007, Turffontein became a night racing venue after a major refurbishment was carried out. Floodlights were installed, track-side facilities were enhanced and a sports bar was opened.
Factor 3: It has played host to the iconic Gauteng Summer Cup
The annual hosting of The Summer Cup dates back to 1897, and every year, residents of Gauteng have come to Turffontein to experience the thrill of horse racing, the glamour of fashion and world-class entertainment. The Summer Cup is well loved for being the only one of South Africa's horse races to offer a half-time show. This show comprises a 20-minute set put together by an assortment of performers, dancers, choirs and more. During this event, Turffontein plays host to an unmatchable entertainment extravaganza, complete with street parties, VIP experiences and much more. For the kids, a carnival, rides, face painters and much more await in the dedicated family zone. In a nutshell, the Gauteng Summer Cup is a must on every Gauteng socialite's calendar.
Factor 4: It is a venue highly regarded by organisers of other events
TAB Champions Day is another event that brings the crowds to Turffontein, and it's a day dedicated to celebrating champions of horse racing and soccer. Entry is free and visitors can spend time enjoying the grandstand or in the Turf Room, where there's live music and a big-screen TV. There's also plenty for the kids to do.
In April 2022, the Joburg Seafood & Jazz Racing Festival was held at Turffontein, giving Joburg residents a chance to enjoy scrumptious seafood and live Jazz alongside horseracing and great entertainment for the next generation of racing enthusiasts.
Turffontein Racecourse is a venue that has a significant place not only in Gauteng's history, but also in the past, present and future of horseracing in South Africa. Over and above this, it is an area that boasts affordable apartments and freestanding homes. Contact us to find out more about Turffontein and what it has to offer its residents.