It’s that time of the year again when Kenilworth race course in Cape Town, South Africa becomes a hub of social activity, fashionistas and a bit of betting perhaps.
The J&B Met ‘Larger Than Life’ is set to be a phenomenal event this Saturday 29 January.
Every year thousands of people flock to the racecourse to partake in a day filled with horse racing, eating, drinking and most importantly; looking good. The extravaganza had humble beginnings; the ‘Metropolitan Mile’, as it was initially called, began in 1883, but it was not until the 1960s that the event became a permanent fixture on the calendars of those in the horse racing circles.
Only when J&B decided to sponsor the event did it become such an important date in January for the rich, famous, fashion junkies and the masses.
The magnificence of the majestic stallions and mares that run the races are enough to bring any crowd to silence. Their thundering hooves, hot breath and pumping muscles as they compete head to head with one another, their small jockeys in the driving seat, is an exciting event to watch.
The J&B Met became so popular that in 2002, after 50 000 people had entered the gates; the organisers had to say “no more”. Now tickets are limited to just that number, and every year the grounds fill up to capacity.
There are packages available that include spots at the infield pavilion, picnic spots, lounges and general seats. Some individuals buy out an entire tent and invite their friends over for the day. These guests pay a set fee and receive drinks and food for the day.
One of the most important elements of the day has to be the fashion. Every year women and men spend small fortunes on looking good and hours getting their attire just right. The theme changes with every year and for 2011 it is ‘Larger Than Life’.
Those who miss out on the event can enjoy snippets of the best-dressed attendees on the news because the J&B Met is the place to be and the media lap up all the glamour and glitz happily.
For those who haven’t bet on races before the organisers assure us that it’s not as complicated as you might initially think. Start with single bets and work your way from there. Choose a horse you like and visit the tote windows to place you bet. Then sit back, watch the race and see if you’ve won.
Good luck on the winnings but more importantly, enjoy the party!
Jade Scully is a copywriter excited about writing copy and stories, blogging about the world and editing. She currently and regularly publishes her stories on a number of blogs. Jade loves animals and hopes to begin writing copy for the animal rescue charity TEARS as her contribution to the cause.
