Turffontein has been a hive of activity in recent weeks and racegoers at the Sansui Summer Cup have seen a huge improvement in both the overall appearance of the grandstand and specific areas within it that were targeted for makeovers.

The traditional, and cold, blue-and-white colour scheme has been replaced by an elegant, and warmer, charcoal and white with railings painted in black. The new colour scheme matches the decor of the deck on the first level of the grandstand that was installed last year.

The area under the grandstand near the winning post that previously housed a line of tote windows has been revamped to create a stylish betting hall with TV screens, modern lighting, a bar and cocktail tables installed on selected grandstand girders.

One set of steps down from the grandstand has been removed to open up the area and the tarmac in front of the grandstand to the east been replaced by grass. The tote board and grandstand steps have been repainted and the facade of the private boxes has been changed to match the rest of the complex.

The back of the grandstand in line with the Turf Club street entrance has also undergone a facelift, while the Centenary Room and the foyer adjoining it have been refurbished. Other elements of the facelift include enhancing the floors of the balconies outside the Aquanaut Room and the Centenary, while 16 additional holding boxes have been built to accommodate horses having to be on track earlier for night racing than is the case with daylight fixtures.