Hollywoodbets takes over Gold Circle
In a groundbreaking shift set to redefine the South African horse racing landscape, Hollywood Sportsbook Holdings have officially completed the acquisition of Gold Circle, a key player in the racing operation in KwaZulu-Natal
South African horseracing opened a new chapter in its history with the news of the acquisition of KwaZulu-Natal betting operator Gold Circle by the Hollywood Sportsbook Holdings group.
Image: Candiese Lenferna
IN a significant move that promises to reshape the landscape of South African horse racing, Hollywood Sportsbook Holdings has successfully acquired Gold Circle, the prominent racing operator in KwaZulu-Natal.
This acquisition marks a pivotal moment for Hollywood and sets the stage for a new era as Cape Town and KwaZulu-Natal horse racing are now in the same stable.
The KwaZulu-Natal Economic Regulatory Authority (KZNERA) has given the green light to this transformative deal, paving the way for a brighter future for the horse racing industry in the province.
Cape Town and KwaZulu-Natal horse racing are now united in the Hollywoodbets stable.
Image: File
In a landscape where corporate responsibility often takes a back seat, Hollywoodbets has emerged as a source of hope for sports and community initiatives across KwaZulu-Natal and beyond. Months ago, Hollywoodbets channelled significant resources to breathe new life into the racing scene in Cape Town.
This investment is part of the larger strategy to foster the sports elite aspect and grassroots levels, ensuring a well-rounded approach to athletic excellence. These sponsorships extend from the Dolphins provincial cricket side to the Sharks rugby team, demonstrating a strong commitment to sporting and social causes.
Hollywood CEO Suren Rampersadh said that it was all systems go for game-changing plans to revitalise a sport that enjoys a unique place in the hearts and minds of passionate locals.
“We are fully committed to securing the future of the horse racing industry in KwaZulu-Natal and are privileged to be in a custodial position to carry the baton into what will be a bright and prosperous future for the sport and all stakeholders in the region and beyond,” said Rampersadh.
“The investment that commenced some time ago will continue, with plans to change the face and broaden the appeal of the business that operates in one of the most exciting sports internationally, with a global reach of over 584 million households.”
This investment will preserve around 6,000 jobs in the province, directly and indirectly, while also funnelling resources into modernising facilities at racecourses and training centres throughout KwaZulu-Natal. Enhancements will encompass updated prize money, an overhauled racing programme, and incentives to promote racehorse ownership, stimulating increased field sizes and betting turnover.
Renovation work at Hollywoodbets Greyville Polytrack and enhancements to the lighting systems have begun. It will allow for day-night racing opportunities that have proven increasingly popular among spectators. The Summerveld Training Centre will receive comprehensive upgrades, including improvements to stabling, accommodation for grooms, and roads.