City of Cape Town traffic officials will be out in full force when one of the country’s top horse races, the JB Met, takes place at Kenilworth Racecourse on Saturday 28 January 2012.
Traffic services will be deployed to the event from 06:00 to midnight, says Chief Inspector Merle Lourens.
“Traffic officers will be on point duty directing traffic and assisting pedestrians. Motorists are requested to obey directions given by all traffic officers.”
There are no planned road closures for the event, but motorists are urged to be aware of pedestrians crossing Wetton Road and Rosmead Avenue throughout the day, and reduce speed accordingly.
Public parking is provided at Youngsfield Military Base that can be accessed via Ottery Road and Wetton Road where a shuttle service will be provided.
Motorists with dedicated parking accreditation must pre-plan their route and have their parking discs displayed to gain entry, she said.
Temporary signs prohibiting parking will be erected in the area.
“Motorists are asked to avoid parking illegally within the residential area.
“Vehicles, such as those parked on sidewalks, which are causing obstructions to the free flow of traffic and to pedestrians will be towed away,” Lourens warned.
Those attending the race have also been urged not to drink and drive.
The JB Met is one of Cape Town’s premier social events and over the last 35 years has established itself as one of the top three horse races in the country. For many, the spectacle of the horseracing takes a secondary spot to the fashion and socialising, including the famous after-party.
It draws crowds of at least 50 000 each year. The number of hospitality tents has reportedly doubled, and the grandstand seats and lounges are sold out. There are 184 picnic sites available for the crowds.
The annual Most Elegant Couple competition is always a highlight, with this year’s theme being “Made Different”.
The country’s top 16 horses will be in action, with prize money totalling R2.5 million.
– For more information, visit the JB Met website.
