Football legend Michael Owen has touched down in South Africa for his first-ever Hollywoodbets Durban July. The former Liverpool striker is clearly buzzing about experiencing the country's biggest horse racing event.
Owen, who now trains racehorses, joked about the unexpected cool weather catching him off guard. "I only brought one top!" he admitted with a laugh.
"I'm looking forward to more of the city, and the Durban July is going to be the biggest attraction for me," Owen shared during his visit to Sibaya Casino & Entertainment Kingdom.
From Footballer to Racing Enthusiast
Unlike many attendees who stress about fashion for the prestigious event, Owen is more interested in the racing itself. "I'm not really a fashionista," he confessed. "I love horses and I'm looking forward to seeing the big race."
The former England international has already been studying the field. He's eyeing Oriental Charm, last year's winner, though acknowledges Eight On Eighteen is the betting favorite.
Owen brings serious racing credentials to the table. He owns Manor House Stables in the UK, where he trains around 130 horses. "Football has been my life and continues to be my job, but racing has always been my passion outside football," he explained.
Comparing Racing Traditions
Having just attended Royal Ascot in the UK, Owen is eager to compare South Africa's premier racing event. "I'm interested in seeing what the differences are," he noted.
For betting enthusiasts, Owen's insights could prove valuable. His eye for Oriental Charm might offer an alternative to the more heavily-backed favorite Eight On Eighteen.
Owen established his racing stables at just 22 years old while still playing professional football. "It wasn't a transition, it went hand in hand," he explained about balancing both passions.
The SunBet ambassador has been making the most of his visit. He's already toured Summerveld Horseracing Clubhouse and participated in fan meet-and-greets.
Despite being in his supposed downtime between football seasons, Owen maintains a hectic schedule. "I think I'm in my house like for seven days out of 80 odd," he revealed about his busy lifestyle.
For Owen, the appeal of horse racing mirrors what many find in football. "That's the good thing about horse racing, there is something in it for everybody," he said. "Whether you're into fashion or horses, competition or gambling."
As the excitement builds for the Hollywoodbets Durban July, Owen is ready to experience it all. From the competitive races to the electric atmosphere, this football legend is embracing his other sporting passion on South African soil.
