The Dundee July, a key event in KwaZulu-Natal's sporting calendar, took place with much excitement and fanfare at the Endumeni Racetrack in Dundee. This traditional horseracing event, which began as a small-scale sport known as umtelebhelo 19 years ago, has grown into a prominent event that attracts thousands of people, including punters, fashionistas, businesspeople, and local communities.

The Dundee July has significantly elevated the profile of this small town, putting both the local and district municipalities on the national and even global map. Reports indicated that all local hotels, B&Bs, and lodges were fully booked, with even accommodations as far as Newcastle showing high occupancy rates due to the event. This surge in visitors greatly stimulated the regional economy of the province.

In its 19th year, the Dundee July Traditional Horseracing event has continued to expand annually, contributing significantly to tourism in the Umzinyathi (Dundee) and Amajuba (Newcastle) areas. The impressive attendance figures underscored the sport's growing popularity and its positive impact on the regional economy. The 7th Administration has focused on boosting the economies of various regions within the province, such as Umzinyathi, Margate, Ulundi, Mzumbe, and many others. By fostering economic growth in these areas, the administration aims to localise the circulation of money, which can help reduce the migration of people to urban cities and mitigate the associated negative effects.

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli expressed his excitement and pride at the event. He highlighted the significant economic benefits that the Dundee July brings to the region and reiterated the government's commitment to supporting such initiatives. Premier Ntuli noted, "The Dundee July has become a force to be reckoned with. It has put this small town, local and district municipality on the national and even global map. The event not only showcases our rich cultural heritage but also drives substantial economic growth."

The 2023 Dundee July saw over 30,000 patrons, contributing R81 million to the annual GDP in constant 2023 prices, supporting 372 employment opportunities, and generating further capital formation of R160 million. This year's event promised to be even bigger and better.

KwaZulu-Natal is being positioned as a Sport Mecca, with the Dundee July following closely on the heels of the Durban July. The latter event, held at Greyville Racecourse, attracted over 50,000 spectators and injected over R600 million into the provincial economy, creating over 11,000 jobs. Premier Ntuli emphasised the goal of elevating the Dundee July to similar heights while maintaining its roots as a traditional horseracing event, with umtelebhelo and other traditional elements as its distinguishing features.

In addition to the Dundee July, the province also announced the hosting of the KZN Premier’s Cup, a prestigious pre-season soccer tournament scheduled for 27th and 28th July at the Prince Mangosuthu Regional Sports Complex in Ulundi. This event is expected to draw large crowds and inspire young athletes to pursue sports as part of their development. Premier Ntuli stated, "The KZN Premier’s Cup tournament is the pedigree of pre-season soccer extravaganza that has stood the test of time. It provides a much-needed football feast for the beautiful game lovers across the length and breadth of our majestic province."

A highlight of the Dundee July was the main race, where Melusi Gamede from Mondlo in Vryheid and his horse Mbayi Mbayi stole the thunder by winning the competition on Saturday, 20 July 2024. KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli presented Melusi with a cheque of R350,000 and a trophy for his outstanding achievement.

Gratitude was extended to all sponsors, event organisers, local communities, and businesses for their support and participation. Premier Ntuli personally thanked the stakeholders, saying, "As I conclude, I would like to register our appreciation and sincere thanks to all the sponsors for believing in this event and making it possible. We hope you derive value in your brand exposure and marketing. To the event organisers, local communities, and business people who came out in numbers, may your day be profitable. Importantly, we say thank you to all of you for coming out in numbers to support this event."

As the province continues to grow through sport, the collective effort and enthusiasm of all stakeholders ensure a bright future for events like the Dundee July and the Premier’s Cup. Premier Ntuli's vision for KwaZulu-Natal is clear: to foster economic development, promote cultural heritage, and position the province as a leading destination for sporting events.