The L’Ormarins King’s Plate 2026 returned to Kenilworth on Saturday, 10 January, reaffirming its place as one of the most storied fixtures in world racing. Now in its 165th edition, the Cape Town showpiece blended elite competition, deep emotion and refined spectacle, drawing local and international attention to South Africa’s summer racing season.
Instantly recognisable by its blue-and-white tradition, the L’Ormarins King’s Plate 2026 once again showcased how heritage and modern excellence can coexist. From the opening strides to the dramatic finish of the mile, the meeting unfolded with the authority expected of a raceday that continues to define the sport’s upper tier.
Three Grade 1 Races Set the Tone at the L’Ormarins King’s Plate 2026
The race programme was anchored by three Grade 1 contests, each contributing a distinct chapter to a memorable afternoon.
The Cartier Paddock Stakes (WFA, 1800m) opened the top-level action and produced a stirring contest. Wish List emerged victorious after a relentless gallop, holding off Reet Petite and Rainbow Lorikeet in a finish that demanded courage and precision. Veteran rider Andrew Fortune judged the moment perfectly, producing his mount late to claim a hard-earned success.
Emotion took centre stage in the Cape Flying Championship (1000m), where young trainer Dean Smith recorded his first Grade 1 victory under licence. Saddling the speedy Kingdundee, Smith honoured the legacy of his late father, Gavin Smith, with a performance that resonated far beyond the result. The sprint unfolded at breakneck pace, but Kingdundee proved unyielding, surging clear to seal a moment that will be remembered as one of the most poignant in South African racing history.
“This win belongs to my father and our family,” Smith said afterwards, visibly moved. “Everything he believed in as a horseman came together today.”
Photo Finish Drama in the King’s Plate Mile
The centrepiece, the Grade 1 L’Ormarins King’s Plate over 1600 metres, delivered the day’s most dramatic spectacle. The Real Prince, already established among the elite, produced a decisive late surge to edge out Questioning, with See It Again flashing home to complete a three-way photo finish.
A strong early tempo ensured the race was set up for closers. As the field fanned across the track in the closing stages, The Real Prince found a vital response under pressure, holding on by the narrowest of margins.
“When I warmed him up, I felt the spark,” said jockey Craig Zackey. “He gave it to me exactly when it mattered.”
Dominant Day for Justin Snaith
Trainer Justin Snaith enjoyed a remarkable afternoon, sending out six winners across the card. His success included major victories in both the Cartier Paddock Stakes and the Cartier Sceptre Stakes, underlining the depth and consistency of his stable during the summer season.
Style, Culture and Classical Elegance
Away from the track, the L’Ormarins King’s Plate 2026 remained a celebration of style and culture. The signature dress code inspired a sea of tailored suits, elegant gowns and striking millinery, reinforcing the event’s reputation as a social highlight of the Cape Town calendar.
Guests were also treated to a rare Lipizzaner display, where immaculate white stallions performed classical dressage movements rooted in centuries-old European tradition. The combination of equestrian artistry and elite racing elevated the atmosphere far beyond a conventional race meeting.
Global Context and Sporting Significance
The three Grade 1 races staged on the day carried international significance, offering South African horses a pathway to compete on the world stage later in the year. The performances at Kenilworth highlighted the depth of local talent and reaffirmed the country’s standing within global thoroughbred racing.
As the Summer Festival of Racing continues through the coming weeks, the L’Ormarins King’s Plate 2026 will be remembered as a defining chapter — one that balanced sporting excellence with emotion, tradition and unmistakable prestige.
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