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Preparations for the annual Berlin November horse race kicked off with a photoshoot open to the public this past weekend, drawing hordes of fashionistas together "to define what fashion truly means to them."
Even founder, Luthando Bara, said including the public in this year's build-up was a special way to mark the 10th anniversary of the horse race that he said had been embraced by celebrities, sporting icons, musicians, entertainers, and high-profile politicians in the Eastern Cape.
"The public was tasked with defining what the festival meant to them by drawing inspiration from themes from the past nine years."
At the end of the photoshoot, Fashion, and Creative Director Leo Fusa revealed the winning theme to be "The Dance of a Decade", inspired by the iconic movie The Great Gatsby.
"This theme signifies celebrations and us stapling our mark in South Africa as the biggest traditional non-gambling horseracing event."
Fusa encouraged attendees to put their best fashion foot forward this year, with "an array of hats, suspenders, accessories, and adornments, creating a stunning display of passion for horseracing."
The event, which started in 2013 in Nqadu, Dutywa has grown over the years, and Bara said it is bigger than he ever anticipated.
The Queen Nondwe Derby, as it was formally known, has evolved to the Berlin November Horserace, a name Bara said arose from the community.
Meanwhile, Buffalo City Metro spokesperson, Samkelo Ngwenya described the event as a "signature occasion" for the City.
He said the festival was "very unconventional and has defied all odds being successful despite being in the muddy peripheries of the Metro."
"The event has shown us a lot of possibilities with tourism, each year it brings the whole city to a standstill and the aftermath of the community projects the event is involved in is pleasing."
Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism's Media Officer, Oyama Ngalika, says the ECPTA has embraced the event because it promotes culture, leisure, and entertainment while boosting tourism in the city.
