French jockey Mickaëlle Michel French jockey Mickaëlle Michel targets Hollywoodbets Durban July glory with history-making filly Curious Girl
French jockey Mickaëlle Michel is preparing for one of the biggest moments of her career as she partners history-making filly Curious Girl in the 2026 Hollywoodbets Durban July.
This year's race marks a historic milestone, with two female jockeys competing in the prestigious event for the first time.
Michel will ride Curious Girl, who made headlines in April after becoming the first filly in 108 years to win the Grade 2 TAB SA Derby. Trained by father-and-son duo Mike de Kock and Mathew de Kock and owned by Hollywood Racing, the filly has already carved out her place in South African racing history.
The horse was bred by Riyo Stud and earned her name because she was constantly peering out of her stable, curiously watching everything around her.
