MIKE de Kock, Sean Tarry and Kevin Shea were hosted by the Savera Hotel in Chatsworth, Durban,  for a Durban July panel discussion with Deez Dyanand this week.

More than 3000 people attended the function, held in open air on the premises of the Savera (“Rising Sun”), which turned 42 years old this year and is the only hotel in Chatsworth.

The Deck at the Savera.

Mike de Kock was surprised at the turnout, to the point of being baffled. He said: “I haven’t seen this much enthusiasm among racing fans for a while. I knew that Durban’s Indian community was passionate about racing, but I didn’t realise they were this passionate. It was heartwarming and we had a great time, the Savera is a very nice facility.”

The Savera is owned by Dhilosen Pillay, who is also the Chairman of the Gambling And Liquor Board. He commented: “We pride ourselves on high standards and our uniquely Eastern theme, a dedication to Indian settlers, who came to South Africa in 1860. We’ve had our rooms and facilities redone, named after the ships that brought 152000 Indian people here between 1860 and 1911.

“We have a bookmaker on site from Track and Ball Gaming, also a tote, and this is naturally a popular venue for people to enjoy their racing when they can’t get to the track. We’re very involved in our community, it is close to our hearts.  We hosted the panel discussion last year, it was a big success and even better this year, we are very pleased.

“On July Day we will have a function here to celebrate the Durban July and we’re expecting 1,000 people on our Deck. It’s a great day for us.”

Go to www.savera.co.za