Two female jockeys taking part in the main race for the first time in the history of this eagerly anticipated event

French jockey Mickaelle Michel will be riding the filly CURIOUS GIRL. Trained by father and son team Mike and Mathew de Kock and owned by Hollywood Racing, CURIOUS GIRL made history on April 4, 2026, by winning the TAB Gr2 SA Derby, becoming the first filly to win the race in 108 years.

• Mickaëlle Michel And Curious Girl Prepare To Make A Splash

Rachel Venniker will be riding Choisaanada, trained by Erico Verdonesse, a middle-distance performer who should be well suited to the 2 200m Hollywoodbets Durban July distance. Race gurus say that this bay gelding is perfect for stamina-based races and will benefit from a balanced and patient ride which is in line with Venniker’s well-known tactical awareness and adaptability.

Venniker made history in 2024 when she became the first female jockey to participate in the Hollywoodbets Durban July – again on another reserve named HLUHLUWE.

• Top Female Jockey Back In The Race!