L’Ormarins Kings Plate

As the summer season hits its stride, the prestigious L’Ormarins King’s Plate makes its return to the newly renovated Hollywoodbets Kenilworth Racecourse on Saturday, January 6, 2024.

As always, true to form, this iconic Cape Town summer racing festival boasts a rich history of over one hundred fifty years. Overall, it promises an exceptional blend of social and sporting excitement.

Celebrating Over 150 Years of Equestrian Heritage

The Grade 1 L’Ormarins King’s Plate dates back to 1861 and holds a special place in equestrian history as South Africa’s oldest continuous horse race.

Established in honour of Queen Victoria, it continues to be held in honour of the British monarch. After King Charles III ascended the throne, the L’Ormarins Queen’s Plate was renamed to the L’Ormarins King’s Plate last year, marking a run of 19 years with the previous name.

As the pinnacle of the Cape Town racing season, the racing event not only attracts horse racing enthusiasts but also brings together the finest thoroughbreds to vie for the coveted title of L’Ormarins King’s Plate champion and a share of the prize money of nearly R2 million.

A highlight of the 2024 festival is the second running of the Okapi Ladies International race. In fact, this race, contested exclusively by female jockeys, will see the 1,200m track compete for an impressive prize purse of R200,000. Inspired by the Magnolia Cup in Britain, it was a popular addition when it was first run earlier this year at the L’Ormarins Kings Plate 2023.

Fashion, Fun, and Glamour on Full Display

Cartier, the renowned luxury brand, returns as sponsor of the Grade 1 Paddock Stakes and Best Dressed competition at the L’Ormarins King’s Plate 2024. Overseeing three categories: Best Dressed Lady, Best Dressed Man and Best Hat, these off-track competitions give participants the opportunity to demonstrate a stylish, sophisticated fashion flair.

Besides Cartier, several sponsors, have contributed to the event’s success. These sponsors include Drakenstein Stud Farm, Anthonij Rupert Wines, Franschhoek Motor Museum, Okapi, Heineken, Schweppes and Merchants on Long.

Donovan Everitt, COO of Cape Racing, says, “The 2024 LKP marks an exciting milestone, with L’Ormarins celebrating 20 years as a partner. This anniversary highlights the enduring success of the L’Ormarins King’s Plate and the lasting partnerships that have contributed to its prominence in Cape Town’s summer season.”

L’Ormarins King’s Plate new and Exciting Additions for 2024

The organisers of the 2024 L’Ormarins King’s Plate are highlighting various fringe events to encourage all attendees to be an integral part of race day. One of the standout events in the upcoming program is a photography and writing competition. The competition not only engages attendees in a fresh and interactive way but also enables them to exhibit their creativity and possibly win exciting prizes.

Furthermore, the photography competition encourages guests to capture the essence of the day, from elegant fashion to exciting races. It’s not just about technical skills but rather about conveying the event’s heart and soul through the lens.

The writing competition, on the other hand, invites wordsmiths to craft narratives that bring the day to life on paper. It’s all about sharing personal experiences and creating a lasting record of the Plate’s unique spirit.

These fringe events aim to make the L’Ormarins King’s Plate 2024 a more personal and engaging experience, allowing attendees to create lasting memories and be part of the event’s story.

Katherine Gray, L’Ormarins King’s Plate Coordinator.

A Starlit Summer Afterparty Celebration

After the final race, everyone starts the party of the season, and they celebrate at the L’Ormarins King’s Plate 2024 afterparty.

The event will become a night of music and dancing as the organizers announce a star-studded lineup of DJs. Finally, the afterparty will take place directly beneath the warm Cape’s night sky, providing an open-air experience for all attendees.

“The L’Ormarins King’s Plate has always been about bringing people together for the finest in racing, fashion and entertainment,” adds Gray. “We can’t wait to deliver an incredible festival experience under the African sun and starlit skies at our re-imagined venue.”

Ticket are open on Computicket – watch our social media pages and website for updates. Style Village access will be R500, and Stud Club tickets will be priced at R1 600.

Don’t miss this highlight of the Cape Town summer season on Saturday, January 6, 2024.

Website: www.lormarinskingsplate.co.za