Cape Town’s most prestigious blue and white racing affair, the L’Ormarins King’s Plate, once again makes its return to the Hollywoodbets Kenilworth Racecourse on Saturday, 4 January 2025.
This 1-day summer racing festival brings together exceptional sportspeople and horses, high fashion, chilled bubbles, and a lucky bet here and there.

What is L’Ormarins King’s Plate all about?
The L’Ormarins King’s Plate dates back to 1861 and holds a special place in equestrian history as South Africa’s oldest horse race event in Cape Town, with its vibrant blend of social and sporting excitement.
The race was originally established in honour of the original silver plate awarded by Queen Victoria to the winner of the race’s inaugural running and continues to uphold a rich tradition. It is now recognized as one of the most anticipated social events of the Cape summer season.

What’s on at L’Ormarins King’s Plate’s 2025 showcase in Cape Town?
This year the stakes are higher than ever as the finest thoroughbreds vie for the coveted title of L’Ormarins King’s Plate champion and a share of the prize money of nearly R3 million, a R1 million increase from last year.
There are also a host of immersive fringe events to set the mood. The Writers competition stands out as a fresh and interactive way for attendees to get involved. Here wordsmiths can 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.
Alternatively, guests can put their photography skills to the test in the Moments photography competition. This fun challenge is not just about technical skills of capturing the perfect frame, but also about conveying the event’s heart, soul and energy through the lens.
‘These fringe events aim to make the L’Ormarins King’s Plate a more personal and engaging experience, allowing attendees to create lasting memories and be part of the event’s story,’ explains Katherine Gray, L’Ormarins King’s Plate Coordinator. Winners of both the Moments and Writers competition are crowned at the event and receive R20 000 for their achievements.
Once the final race is run, the party feels flow with the L’Ormarins King’s Plate 2025 Afterparty. A lineup of star-studded DJs is confirmed and promises to transform the event into an open-air evening of music and dancing beneath the warm Cape’s night sky.
Other highlights include access to some of the country’s finest wines and food, as well as some exceptional antique car displays.

Go all-out in head-turning hats and elegant looks
Whether you are heading to the races or staying off-track, be sure to dress to the nines in your best blue and white garb. The extra effort to curate an elegant look might just secure yourself one of the Best Dressed prizes at the event.
This year, Cartier returns as sponsor of the Best Dressed Woman, Best Dressed Man and Best Hat off-track competitions. A beautiful Cartier Juste Un Cloud bracelet is the prize in all categories, while Best Dressed Woman and Best Hat receive further Cartier items like scarves and handbags; and the Best Dressed Man is awarded Cartier cufflinks and a covetable Santos de Cartier ballpoint pen.

L’Ormarins King’s Plate 2025 Package Options
Each hospitality offering is designed to offer guests a unique experience and tickets can be purchased as following:
- Lifestyle Style Village Package
This ticket grants access to both the thrilling horse races and the vibrant After Party. Guests can explore a variety of bars, wine stands, and gourmet food options, alongside unique exhibits including a stunning display of vehicles from the Franschhoek Motor Museum. Parking is conveniently located in-field, with entry and drop-off available via Wetton Road.
- Lifestyle Stud Club Package
This premium hospitality experience features an exclusive marquee overlooking, and alongside the track. Guests are with luxurious amenities including private bars, totes, and cocktail lounges. The ticket also includes selected Athonij Rupert Wines, beer, further refreshments, plus a delicious lunch. Parking is conveniently located in-field, with entry and drop-off available via Wetton Road. Stud Club guests also get access to the Style Lounge Village and After Party.
How to book tickets
Cost: Style Village access – R600pp | Stud Club package – R1 800pp | Book via Computicket
When: Saturday, 4 January 2025 from 12pm
Where: Hollywoodbets Kenilworth Racecourse, 105 Rosmead Ave, Kenilworth, Cape Town
Tel: 081 879 7423
Email: [email protected]
Website: lormarinskingsplate.co.za
Facebook: @LOrmarinsKingsPlate
Instagram: @lkp_ct