Sixteen celebrities have been matched up with 16 thoroughbreds to benefit 16 charities in a glitz and glam day at the races.
The top South Africa celebrities will glam things up, all in the name of charity, and make a difference in the lives of the less privileged.
They have been matched with the 16 charities and the barrier draw for the horses and jockeys and media partners was held the Emperors Palace Convention Centre, on Wednesday, October 22.
The celebrities are Neil Andrews, “Kojo” Baffoe, Dariel Baron, Paul Buckby, Alex Caige, Felix coetzee, Amanda du Pont, Alfred “Shorty” Ntombela, Clive Maistry, Masengo “Maps” Maponyane, Brian Mitchell, Fiona Nay, Haylen Owen, Sarah-Kate Scott, “Real Black Pearl” Thusi and Charol Tshabalala.
The 16 charities which will benefit from the race day are the Animal Anti Cruelty League, Maphanzela Primary After Care Centre, Welamlambo Primary After Care Centre (Orphanage), San Michele, Reahile Primary After Care Centre, Umkhathize Primary After Care Centre, Fortune Kunene Primary After Care Centre, Jongimfundo Primary After Care Centre, Nageng Primary After Care Centre, Khangezile Primary After Care Centre, Peermont Education Trust – Lesedi Programme, Peermont School Support Programme, Izanokhanyo Home, Thembakazi Primary After Care Centre, National Horse Trust and Star Schools.
A total of R550 000 (which, it was announced at the barrier draw, will next year swell to a whopping R1-million) will go the charities (all will benefit, with R100 000 going to the winning horse’s charity).
Bob Yearham, Peermont COO for gaming commented: “Peermont donates a sizeable amount annually through ongoing corporate social investment and responsibility projects, with a core focus on education, community upliftment, youth and entrepreneurial development.
“The Charity Mile is a unique event that aligns with our core business philosophies, bringing hospitality, gaming and famous people together in aid of those less fortunate.”Phumelela Gaming’s national marketing manager, Michael Varney, said “We are extremely excited for this year’s instalment of the Peermont Emperors Palace Charity Mile; our partners, Peermont, continue to show their support of both the sport of horse racing as well as the charities that benefit from this epic day at the races!”