L’ORMARINS KING’S PLATE ENTRIES

First Entries Announced for the 2025 L’ORMARINS KING’S PLATE (WFA) (Grade 1)

The 2025 L’ORMARINS KING’S PLATE (WFA) (Grade 1) promises to be one of the most thrilling events on the South African horse racing calendar. Set to take place on Saturday, 4 January 2025, this prestigious 1600m race will showcase the finest runners in the country, all vying for glory on one of the sport’s biggest stages. With first entries now announced, the anticipation is building for what is sure to be an epic showdown.

The Contenders

Here is the full list of first entries for the race, along with their trainers and merit ratings: (Alphabetical)

1. Al Muthana (AUS) – Trainer: Ricky Maingard | Merit Rating: 120
2. At My Command – Trainers: BJ Crawford/JI Crawford | Merit Rating: 119
3. Atticus Finch – Trainer: Alec Laird | Merit Rating: 121
4. Barbaresco – Trainer: J A Janse van Vuuren | Merit Rating: 122
5. Bingwa – Trainer: Gavin Smith | Merit Rating: 120
6. Eight On Eighteen – Trainer: Justin Snaith | Merit Rating: 115
7. Gimme A Prince – Trainer: Dean Kannemeyer | Merit Rating: 130
8. Great Plains – Trainer: Justin Snaith | Merit Rating: 112
9. King Regent – Trainer: Glen Kotzen | Merit Rating: 114
10. Lucky Lad – Trainer: Sean Tarry | Merit Rating: 125
11. Montien – Trainer: Piet Botha | Merit Rating: 120
12. One Stripe – Trainer: Vaughan Marshall | Merit Rating: 118
13. Oriental Charm – Trainers: BJ Crawford/JI Crawford | Merit Rating: 125
14. Royal Aussie – Trainer: Justin Snaith | Merit Rating: 124
15. See It Again – Trainer: Michael Roberts | Merit Rating: 131
16. Snow Pilot – Trainer: Justin Snaith | Merit Rating: 125
17. Without Question – Trainer: Justin Snaith | Merit Rating: 118

Betting Preview

The ante-post betting market has already sparked excitement, with early favourites emerging:

• Hollywoodbets Cape Guineas Winner ONE STRIPE, opens as the ANTE POST 28/10 favourite.
• Oriental Charm, Last year’s July hero, trained by BJ Crawford/JI Crawford, is a strong contender at 7/2.
•  Snow Pilot, who could be the one to follow enters at 9/2.
• Last year’s runner-up, See It Again, is priced at 5/1 and boasts the highest merit rating of 131.

Race Highlights

This year’s L’ORMARINS KING’S PLATE will not only feature a clash of champions but also serve as a showcase of some of the most consistent performers in South African racing.

• See It Again: With an impressive merit rating of 131, the 2024 runner up will look to improve on last year’s second-place finish.
• Snow Pilot: Enters with high expectations and a solid 125 rating.
• Gimme A Prince: A standout with a 130 rating, this horse is one to watch closely.
• Oriental Charm: The reigning July champion this contender represents a strong challenge for the title.

BET NOW HERE

The Stage is Set

With such a competitive field, the 2025 L’ORMARINS KING’S PLATE is shaping up to be an unmissable event. Who will claim victory and etch their name into the history books? Be sure to follow all the action and place your bets early to secure the best odds.

Stay tuned for more updates as the big day approaches!