27 July 2015 Issue 12 Year 77

Krêkvars-Kopanong Festival pg. - 12

Students explore the underground pg. - 9

SA’s sub-tens pg. - 16

Perdeby

Tuks se amptelike studentekoerant / Official Tuks student newspaper / Kuranta ya baithuti ya semmušo ya Tuks

27July2015

year77issue12

Drinking dilemmas

Varsity Cup kicks off pg. - 15

Proposed laws to shake up South Africa’s liquor landscape second-year mechanical engineering student, feels that these changes to the law do not make sense as one “can In May of this year the Department be called an adult with all the rights of Trade and Industry (DTI) released and responsibilities at 18, with the their proposal for new alcohol exception of being allowed to drink”. laws in South Africa. The purpose In the proposal, the DTI argues of the proposal is to respond to that this is one way of fixing South the rise of alcohol abuse through Africa’s drinking problem, as research recommendations for problematic shows that the younger people start areas, one of which is the significant drinking the more likely they will increase in alcohol consumption be to experience heavy drinking among the youth. Objectors to the problems as adults. To also help solve newly proposed alcohol laws have this issue, the proposal suggests that been given until 13 August to raise municipalities regulate the days and issues. The implementation of these hours when alcohol is sold. laws would impact anyone younger In addition to students, than 21 years of age and those manufacturers, distributors and involved in the liquor industry. vendors are also greatly affected by The proposed laws threaten to some of the laws take away what is, for most “One of the suggestions that have been suggested. One of students, a big made by the proposal is to the most notable part of student life: alcohol. increase the legal drinking restrictions is on alcohol advertising, One of the age from 18 to 21.” as the DTI suggests suggestions prohibiting made by sponsorships and any promotions the proposal is to increase the associated with alcohol. legal drinking age from 18 to 21.

The proposal has also suggested Trademarx manager Amarie Botes that manufacturers be held feels that this change will not have accountable for illegal activity like the desired effect, saying that, “[The] selling alcohol to unlicensed traders millennials demographic group acts and underage drinkers. The DTI’s very ‘anti-establishment’. They do suggestion goes so far as to say that what they want and are extremely manufacturers, distributors and traders resourceful.” Tyronne Bakker, a JODY DAVISON

should be held liable for any damages incurred when they sell alcohol to an already intoxicated person who goes on to commit a crime or have a car accident. Botes disagrees with this suggestion as well, saying, “We [Trademarx] cannot be held liable for a person’s actions.” Botes went on to say that she objects to an outlet being held responsible for possible crimes committed by people. Mark Eybers, a manager at Springbok Bar, objects to increasing the drinking age and also to holding vendors liable for people’s actions while intoxicated, as he feels that this is “opening a door to blame everybody for anything”.

Furthermore, the proposal wants to implement laws that prohibit the sale of alcohol within 500 m of schools, places of worship, public institutions, and recreational and rehabilitation centres. The implementation of this law would signify the end of Oom Gert’s and what is left of Hatfield Square.

Eybers went on to say that, “It just seems like people are trying to police more, and that’s not the way to deal if there is a problem of, say, binge drinking. We need to educate people a lot more than try tell them not to do things.” Eybers suggests that, “If people want to do anything, they have got to encourage responsible drinking.”

Tough season awaits AmaTuks pg. - 16

Win tickets to Oppikoppi pg. - 12

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Perdeby

Editorial | 27 July 2015

You are what you read

www.perdeby.co.za perdeby@up.ac.za m.perdeby.co.za @perdebynews @PerdebySport @PerdebyE Tel: (012) 420 6600

Editorial Editor-in-chief Carel Willemse

carel.willemse@up.ac.za @Ed_in_Chief

Editor Michal-Maré Linden

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News Michael Bongani Reinders

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Features Leanne Cumming

features@perdeby.co.za @CummingsGoing

Entertainment Elmarie Kruger Sport Michal-Maré Linden

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Web Marko Svicevic

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Copy Herman Hoogenboezem

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Layout Nikita Mokgware

time talking about the books he had read. He was able to talk about ideas instead of people and events. Despite feeling very ignorant and not having much to contribute, I enjoyed the conversation and learnt a lot.

In the holidays, Perdeby had two fantastic opportunities. The first was a visit to Paarl Coldset, the people that print Perdeby. They are also responsible for printing City Press, Beeld, Daily Sun, Rapport and The Witness. It made us feel quite small to compare our 10 000 weekly copies to the 400 – 500 000 copies Daily Sun prints, well, daily. I wondered why a tabloid such as Daily Sun would be so popular seeing as it isn’t known for its literary qualities. After reading through several copies, though, I took great delight in the conversational language and its entertainment value. It wasn’t a challenge to read at all.

The second opportunity Perdeby had was to meet up with other South African student publications at the Varsity Newspaper National Conference. One of the speakers was Mark Weinberg from the Right2Know Campaign. He looked at the connection between the media, their readers and their advertisers and how it influences the end product. Weinberg explained the concept of “the bubble”. Every Facebook user will be familiar with this concept. It’s the algorithm that ensures the things you see on your timeline are things that you agree with. The bubble can also be seen as an echo chamber.

Everything you put in echoes back to you

and you will undoubtedly agree with it. The problem with the bubble is that you start to believe that everyone thinks the same way as you and that all your opinions are correct.

This is where reading something different comes in. It’s nice to go unchallenged by tabloids and social media feeds. It’s not comfortable to read something that challenges us, but when we do, we become aware that not everyone thinks likes us and agrees with us (I’m still trying to process some of the literature Weinberg gave us). We don’t necessarily have to agree with what we read, but different ideas may add to our own ideas by removing the limitations on them, or strengthen our own ideas by us needing to defend them.

Too often I think everyone agrees with me because that is the idea that I’m fed by the bubble. Too often I choose to be ignorant by reading the same things day in and day out. I’m always amazed by people with big ideas. These people are most often people that read things that challenge and develop their mind. I can only conclude that I am what I read.

I can’t guarantee that all of Perdeby will challenge you (certainly, Pssst... will not) but I hope you find something of value in our pages.

The editorial sacrificed their holidays for it, so I hope it’s been worth their while. I’m certainly proud of them.

Michal

layout@perdeby.co.za @nikineo

Visuals Hendro van der Merwe Multimedia Keegan Schmidt

As an English student, you’d expect that I read a lot. Unfortunately, I mostly manage to only read the set works for my subjects interspersed with the odd surfing magazine and the day’s headlines. It’s a pretty embarrassing account.

In the holidays I had a conversation with a good friend and we spent a great deal of

From the Editor

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27 July 2015 | Advertorial

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News | 27 July 2015

Sunnyside/Arcadia bus assists day students

Students denied entry to exams despite promised financial aid

28 May to 1 July 2015 from 07:00 till 00:00.

According to Reitumetse Ratlhogo, the SRC member of the day students and external campus affairs portfolio, the bus service was implemented as a result of the SRC’s awareness of the need for transport for day students residing in Sunnyside and Arcadia.

Ratlhogo went on to add that, “The SRC would like to encourage students’ success by offering The poster announcing the bus service. Photo: Stefan Stander students a safe LETHABO MALEPA alternative when studying long nights during the exam period.”

The SRC, in partnership with the UP The bus service, which took facilities department, implemented a students to and from Hatfield campus Sunnyside/Arcadia bus service during for free, was implemented using funds the last exam period that ran from from the UP transport department.

NASIPHI MDLULWA

The bus service previously operated just in the evening. This allowed students to commute from Campus House in Sunnyside to Hatfield campus. Despite the buses operating during the afternoon, students mostly utilised the buses during the evening.

Stephen Maifo, a second-year electrical engineering student who used the buses frequently, said that many students used the buses in the evening, especially during the 19:00 timeslot. Ratlhogo said that the buses were “sufficiently utilised” and that students mostly used the buses in the evening because they were familiar with those timeslots. Overall, Ratlhogo believes that the bus service was a success as, “The SRC believes that any opportunity to deliver a much needed service to students should always be considered a success.”

Ratlhogo said that the SRC was proposing means by which the bus service could become permanent, saying, “The SRC is working on a proposal that seeks to see the bus service becoming a permanent feature. The SRC recognises the vast number of student coming from Sunnyside/Arcadia and therefore addresses the issue within the proposal.”

During the June/July exam period, students who had been promised financial assistance by the SRC were turned away from their exam venues. These students were turned away because they did not have 2015 student cards as they had not been able to register, despite the fact that R500 000 had been allocated to the SRC by UP management to cover registration, accommodation and tuition fees for these particular students.

SRC deputy president Luvuyo Menziwa explained that, “The money was for students who needed funding but had not qualified for NSFAS or could not apply for NSFAS. The names of these students had been submitted by student leaders from various political organisations.” He said that UP management decided to give these students R20 000 for accommodation instead of paying for other costs such as registration.

Students were given R20 000 to resolve the issue of being unable to afford private accommodation and had no viable alternatives. When the SRC heard about this, they challenged the decision “…and now students are getting R35 000, and not only for accommodation but depending on the need”, said Menziwa. Menziwa noted that in doing so the university’s management had neglected the fact that students did not have the same financial needs.

Menziwa said that these students were able to write exams, “[specifically] those that came to us and notified us that they were not

allowed to write exams”. However, he admitted that some of these students were denied entry to their exam venue because they were still not registered.

He advised that these students notify the SRC and that they will “see to it that they write special exams”.

Menziwa also mentioned that UP Vice-Chancellor Prof. Cheryl de la Ray said that she was willing to give a further R2 million for financial aid as a humanitarian loan.

Director of Student Affairs Dr Matete Madiba said that the rolling out of the new financial aid programme was experiencing teething problems as this is its first year of implementation. At the beginning of the year, the Department of Student Affairs had prioritised living expenses because there were students who did not have a place to stay. However, as the process continued it was found that students did not have the same financial needs. Therefore, the money was reallocated according to the specific financial need.

Dr. Madiba said that some students had not been registered pending the outcome of their academic appeals or because of high historical debt (this year registration closed before some students who had applied for NSFAS knew the outcome of their application). The original number of students that had needed assistance was 247, however the number was reduced to 112 as some qualified for NSFAS and bursaries.

Dr. Madiba expressed that the money needed for the 112 students already exceeded the amount available.

27 July 2015 | News

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UP hosts Model United Nations Conference SHAMMAH BOTERERE The United Nations Association South Africa Pretoria (Unasa PTA) chapter hosted the Model United Nations South African Universities (MUNSAU) conference from 10-13 July. Unasa PTA co-hosted the event with the Department of International Relations and Cooperation and the United Nations Information Centre.

The conference was a four-day event, comprising of three days of the simulation of the United Nations and one day of social enrichment and seminars. The first three days were at UP’s Hatfield campus, with the last day held at the O.R. Tambo DIRCO building.

This year’s theme dealt with Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and the post-2015 development agenda. This theme was appropriate as 2015 is the deadline for reaching these set goals.

The aim of the conference was to build awareness about the MDGs and the upcoming Sustainable Development Goals among the youth.

Part of the conference is the MUNSAU debating competition.

Teams aim to reach the MUNSAU 2015 national championships. This year, UP representing Venezuela placed third, second place was awarded to the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) representing Russia, and first place went to UP’s team that represented Nigeria.

The conference also aimed to strengthen relations between

universities in South Africa.

In attendance were the University of Johannesburg, Stellenbosch University, NMMU, Waterberg FET College, Unisa, the University of the Witwatersrand and UP. Other attendees present were the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, the United Nations Information Centre, the South African Institute of International Affairs, and representatives from the embassies of Croatia, China, Colombia, Fiji and Indonesia.

Celma Cainara Manjate da Costa, a third-year political sciences, student said that, “It [the conference] was beautifully organised and the food was on point. All the delegates felt worthy of partaking in the event as all the necessary care was taken to accommodate us all. The Unasa team and volunteers did a commendable job in running a smooth operation and left nothing to be desired. Overall, [it was] a great learning experience and interaction among the different universities present.”

Shamiso Khupe, undersecretary of MUN, said that, “The MUNSAU conference helped put the university on the map as this is the third time the national MUN conference has been held at UP. Most of our attendees were from international organisations and embassies, [and] they were very impressed with the ability of a student society to pull off a national conference of that magnitude.”

Transport disaster for Mamelodi residents

Mamelodi residents show their unhappiness with the lack of transport. Photo: Shen Scott

BUSISIWE BEJE Mamelodi, one of the biggest townships on the east of Pretoria, has made news headlines recently due to the violence that arose when taxi drivers attacked Autopax buses, the replacements for the discontinued Putco bus service.

It was alleged that the government promised taxi operators that when Putco ended their service that these routes would be handed to the taxi operators. Instead, another bus service was put into place on these routes. The resulting strike affected

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commuters that relied on buses and taxis to get to work. Fikile Likhuleni, a cleaner at Inca, explained that she arrived late for work because there weren’t any taxis she could use in Mamelodi to get to the train station.

The situation became worse when the government intervened with Operation Fiela and impounded approximately 50 taxis to calm the situation, angering taxi operators even further. Taxi operators then took action and went on a strike on 9 July 2015. Many have called for the transport situation to be restored to its original form.

If this violence persists, many students who rely on public transport to reach UP will miss class due to alternative transport being too expensive or inconvenient and this could affect their academic performance.

Noluthando Marakalala, an education student who lives in Mamelodi, said that, “I’m going to have to use Metrorail. That means I’ll have to walk for an hour to get to the train station and I’ve got 07:30 classes this semester. The train is not safe either”.

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News | 27 July 2015

The Enactus team. Image provided.

Enactus place third at 2015 South African National Championship

BIANCA MEYER The Enactus UP send-off ceremony for 2015 was held on 18 July at the Sanlam Auditorium in preparation for the Enactus South African National Championship.

Enactus UP participated in five projects this year, but only three were presented at the championship.

These projects are AgriUP, Tilajo and Rethaka. The projects will be judged on the three Ps – people, planet, and profit.

Fabian Kannemeyer of the Business Advisory Board gave an introductory speech for the event. He mentioned that Enactus is currently helping in 36 countries and approximately two billion people are impacted

by Enactus. Kannemeyer told the Enactus UP team to “go out there and fly the UP flag high”.

Enactus vice-president Felix Oloo said that he is very excited for the championships. Noluthando Tsoko, an Enactus UP executive committee member, explained that a project goes on for as long as Enactus is needed to be a part of it. Tsoko also said, “The whole point of Enactus UP is that we

are not here to do charity – [we are] not going in and out and once you are out, the people are still depending on you. It’s teaching people how to be dependent on themselves, teaching people how to help other people and sustain the people.”

Enactus UP started out in 2009 and is organised by Dr Rina Wilken.

Enactus UP has won two previous national championships, participated in five finals and competed in the semi-finals at the Enactus World Cup. The Enactus SA National Championships group stages were held on 22 July, with the semifinals and final on 23 July. The final consisted of four teams, where they competed for the winning title. A total of 26 institutions around South Africa took part in the Enactus SA National Championship this year. The championship was held in Sandton, Johannesburg.

The Enactus UP team received an overall third place at the championships.

The Enactus UP team received two thematic awards. They took 1st place in their league for Entrepreneurial Action and 2nd place in their league

for Nedbank Triple Bottom Line and Sustainability.

The Enactus UP team received a standing ovation at the end of their project presentation. The audience was especially impressed with the Rethaka project. This project used recyclable plastic bags to make schoolbags for underprivileged children. The bag included a solar light so that the children can use it to do homework at night.

Dr Rina Wilken, the UP faculty advisor, won the 2015 Faculty Advisor of the Year award. Anthony Townsend won the Alumni of the Year award.

During the question and answer session, a judge asked the team what the biggest lesson that the team had learnt during their programmes was.

Enactus UP president Amina Akoo replied that they learnt “how to step out of their comfort zone”.

The University of Zululand received 2nd place. The University of KwaZulu-Natal was crowned as the Enactus South Africa 2015 National Champions. They will represent South Africa during the Enactus World Cup from 14-16 October in Johannesburg.

A recruiter from Macquarie University in Sydney will be in Pretoria to meet with students who want to find out more about studying there.

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Tukkie Credit Card holders now earn Absa Rewards The more than 2800 proud Tukkie Gold Credit Card holders welcome the news that they can now also earn Absa Rewards on their card purchases. This year, these Credit Card holders can also look forward to exciting competitions where they stand a chance to win Currie Cup tickets for rugby games at Loftus as well as Woolies vouchers in the annual Tukkie Card Competition.

Make today matter Make today matter by start swiping your Tukkie Gold Credit Card and Absa will automatically donate a certain percentage of your annual card spend to the Tukkie Credit Card Fund. This fund is in aid of deserving campus projects such as upgrading the access to campus buildings for people with disabilities or books for poor students.

The Tukkie Gold Credit Card provides a simple and convenient way for our valued alumni to support their alma mater with no direct financial giving. Your Tukkie Gold Credit Card (with the red card face) makes a proud statement about your academic heritage and your alma mater. Every time you transact with your new Tukkie Credit Card, you will help enable tomorrow for the University of Pretoria – and it won’t cost you an extra cent!

If you are an existing Absa credit card client, it’s a hassle-free process to switch to a new Tukkie Credit Card. Phone the Absa Card Call centre on 0861 GO CARD (0861 46 2273) and request the agent to change your existing credit card to a Tukkies Gold credit card. And if you’re not an Absa client, you can also easily apply for a new Tukkie Credit Card in addition to your existing banking products – subject to normal credit evaluations – without any need to switch financial service providers.

To apply, simply SMS your name, surname and ID no and “Tukkies” to 33776 (e.g. Bob*Smith*8105055358081*Tukkies). An agent will contact you to complete your application. (Terms and conditions apply. SMS charged at R1,50.)

You can also apply online on the Absa website at www.absa.co.za or visit your nearest Absa Branch and complete an application form for the Tukkie Gold affinity credit card.

You can also choose to join the Absa Rewards program and get rewarded every time you use your Tukkie Gold credit card to buy goods. You will not earn points, but cold, hard cash where a percentage of your qualifying purchase will be paid straight into your Absa Rewards account. Enjoy all the rewards and benefits you deserve for a low monthly membership fee of R21. And if you would like to stand a chance of winning prizes, please make sure that you enter our competitions, since entry is no longer automatic.

27 July 2015 | Photo essay

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UP Ovuwa at Krêkvars-Kopanong’s opening ceremony. Photo: Stefan Stander

Knot. Photo: Shen Scott

Falling: a triptych. Photo: Shen Scott

Shedding the load. Photo: Stefan Stander

Falling: a triptych. Photo: Shen Scott

For more photos from KrêkvarsKopanong and reviews of the performances, visit the Perdeby website.

Shedding the load. Photo: Stefan Stander

A swallow’s tale. Photo: Shen Scott

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Features | 27 July 2015

Solar power takes to the skies

Photo: Kirsty Mackay

SAVVA POUROULLIS The golden age of solar power has finally dawned as Solar Impulse 2, the world’s most advanced solar-powered aircraft, circumnavigates the world with the aim of showing just how far solar technology has come in the short time that it has existed. With over 17 000 solar cells covering its wingspan, the intercontinental machine has set the record for the longest solo flight duration of any aircraft, including those that run on fuel.

André Borschberg, a Swiss engineer and businessman, along with Bertrand Piccard, a renowned pilot, have taken turns flying the aircraft in its round-the-world stint, shattering records with every flight. According to the Solar

Impulse website, the longest stretch, across the Pacific Ocean from Japan to Hawaii, lasted five days, setting the record for the longest solarpowered flight both by duration and distance.

Solar Impulse also has a Twitter feed to update followers on its progress through its monthslong challenge, as well as a live update feed on its website detailing its location and the distance covered in its journeys.

The carbon-fibre aircraft spans 72 m, wider than a Boeing 747, but its mass is around that of a car. Solar Impulse 2 carries over 600 kg of batteries, allowing it to fly through the night.

Its night-flight capabilities are not just for the sake of viewing pretty lights from the cockpit window, as the Solar Impulse 2 is capable of perpetual flight, making its only limitation the

human pilot inside. Borschberg and Piccard have developed techniques to maintain vigilance during the absurdly long flight stretches, two of which have been projected to last five days.

The aircraft’s large wingspan and low weight make it especially susceptible to harsh weather conditions.

To ensure that the aircraft does not run into potentially dangerous weather, a team of meteorologists constantly monitor the weather patterns on its route, searching for a perfect window of opportunity before every trip. At the start of what was meant to be its longest scheduled flight from Nanjing, China, to Hawaii, Solar Impulse 2 was forced to make an unscheduled stop in Nagoya, Japan, due to bad weather conditions further along its route.

After waiting some time for favourable weather, Borschberg successfully made the remaining 7000 km trip to Hawaii.

The trip lasted 118 hours, much longer than runner-up Steve Fossett’s 76 hours in a single-seater jet.

The aircraft is currently grounded in Hawaii undergoing extensive repairs on its batteries, which the Solar Impulse team says were insulated too much and overheated on the aircraft’s longest trip to date. The repairs are likely to outlast the end of the season, after which it will be difficult to find a window of opportunity. Piccard said in Hawaii that Solar Impulse 2 will probably continue its flight in 2016 when new ideal weather opportunities present themselves. Once repairs are finished, Piccard is scheduled to fly the plane across 4700lkm of ocean to the US, which will likely take four days. The aircraft will then continue to its final destination in Abu Dhabi, where it began its journey at the beginning of the 2015.

Borschberg was met by Piccard in Hawaii, where Piccard commented, “Now you can fly longer with no fuel than you can with fuel.

What [Borschberg] has done is not only a historic first for aviation, it’s a historic first for renewable energies, and this is why we are doing this project.” The aircraft is being stored in a hangar at Kalaeloa Airport with the support of the University of Hawaii and the Department of Transportation until it is able to continue its journey.

The Solar Impulse team has repeatedly stated that their project is not intended to demonstrate alternative methods of aviation, although the project has been successful in that regard. Their message is focused more on the potential of solar energy as an alternative for electricity generation. Solar Impulse 2 is meant to prove the rapidly increasing efficiency of solar energy and the trust that is being put into it by both governments and private sectors. In a nearly contemporaneous study to the flight of the Solar Impulse 2, The Australian Centre for Advanced Photovoltaics achieved the most efficient conversion rate ever for solar energy, converting 40% of incoming solar energy into electricity, compared to the typical coal station’s 33% energy conversion rate as reported by the US National Petroleum Council.

The effects of solar power’s increasing efficiency can be seen in industry as well, as more companies and governments take on the challenge of turning a once undesirable industry into a lucrative business opportunity.

The Solar Impulse project has been a challenging task from the beginning and some of the many hurdles the two pilots have had to accept are disappointment and frustration on several occasions, but Piccard leaves inspiring words on his views of the project, stating that “If no one tells you it’s impossible, it means you are not ambitious enough.”

27 July 2015 | Features

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Gay marriage gets the green light JARED DE CANHA Facebook newsfeeds have been a flurry of colours since the announcement that the United States would join the likes of Belgium, Spain, Canada, South Africa and New Zealand in the growing group of countries who have legalised same-sex marriages. From the first of these in 2001, this group has expanded and now boasts 20 members after the US joined its ranks on 26 June 2015.

How same-sex marriages were legalised in the US In a landmark decision, the US Supreme Court ruled that the US constitution provided the right of marriage to same-sex couples. This close decision, reached by a 5 to 4 vote, was reached after interpreting the constitution to guarantee equal protection under the law, meaning that no state could prohibit same-sex marriages. Justice Anthony Kennedy, who was a member of the five-judge majority, explained his reasoning for voting in the affirmative by saying that the US constitution granted same-sex couples the right to “equal dignity in the eyes of the law”. The judge also wrote that “without the recognition, stability and predictability” that marriage offers, children who live in same-sex families will suffer the “stigma of knowing that their families are somehow lesser”.

This ruling followed the efforts of gay rights advocates in the US through various legal battles, who first tasted success in 2004 when Massachusetts became the first state to legalise same-sex marriages. The ruling has also been regarded as the most expansive ruling to change marriage rights in the US since the decision in Loving v Virginia in 1967, which allowed for interracial marriages.

Immediately after the announcement of the decision, same-sex couples across many of the states where gay marriage had been previously banned flooded their County Clerks’ offices for marriage licences. Officials in these states agreed to respect the decision and immediately issued marriage licences, with the exception of Louisiana and Mississippi who vowed to wait for the legal formalities to be in place before issuing marriage licences. They will thus

Students explore the underground HUVASAN REDDY The idea of journeying deep underground for hours on end and squeezing through dark tight spaces may be daunting to most, but to those who dare, caving is an adrenaline filled adventure sport that pushes the limits of physical and emotional stamina.

On 4 July, Perdeby accompanied Pieter Theron along with a diverse group of students he had gathered for a caving expedition through the Westminster caves. The expedition was organised by Theron as the main component to fulfil the criteria for his community-based project (JCP) module, which is compulsory for undergraduate students in the Ebit faculty.

According to course leader Dr Martina Jordaan, students are required to complete between 30 and 40 hours of community service and thereafter reflect on their experiences.

Situated in the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site, the Westminster cave system, which forms part of the Rising Star cave, reaches a depth of approximately 15 meters underground. A dry cave, it consists partly of dark open spaces filled with brilliant white stalactites, mineral formations that hang from the ceiling of a cave, and flowstone formations

Photo: Brendan Fraser

rely on the 25 day period which is afforded for Supreme Court rulings to take effect.

In a statement made in the White House rose garden after the ruling, US President Barack Obama viewed the ruling as a “victory for America”. Obama, who is the first sitting president to support same-sex marriage, stated that the “decision affirmed what millions of Americans already believed in their hearts”. The US president also said that all Americans were freer when they are all “treated as equals”. The White House also commemorated the court’s decision when it was lit up in rainbow colours at nightfall as a symbol of gay pride.

The Irish Referendum Ireland also made headlines this year after they became the first country in the world to approve the right of freedom of marriage by popular referendum. After months of campaigning from many groups in Ireland under the “Yes Equality” campaign, Ireland officially donned their rainbow colours on 22 May 2015 and became the 19th country in the world to legalise same-sex marriages. The strong majority vote of approximately 62% in favour of same-sex marriages made Ireland the first country to

legalise same-sex marriage through the ballot box.

The position here at home South Africa can truly be regarded as a “rainbow nation” after being the first country in Africa, the first in the southern hemisphere and the fifth country globally to legalise same-sex marriage in 2006. After the ruling by the Constitutional Court in the Fourie case, the court held that denying same-sex couples the right to marry one another violated the South African Constitution and its core values of human dignity, equality and freedom. Same-sex couples in this country can now be married in terms of the Civil Union Act, which was promulgated by the legislature in response to the court’s decision to rectify our law.

Elsewhere in Africa On 29 June 2015 Mozambique decriminalised homosexuality through the introduction of a new penal code, which repealed the former colonialera laws that prohibited same-sex relationships.

The former code placed a punishment of up to three years of hard labour on anyone found in contravention of the law. The scrapping of this colonial law has been seen as a victory for

composed of white calcite. The cave also consists of challenging tight spaces that seem almost impossible to fit through, requiring strength, flexibility and bravery. The expedition was led by senior exploration technician Steven Tucker of the University of the Witwatersrand, who described the Westminster cave as the perfect way to expose people to caving. Tucker, who also represents the Speleological Exploration Club (SEC), a club of amateur and professional cavers in South Africa, described caving as a very physical activity where people can see things that can never be seen above ground, adding that caves were one of the last unexplored places on the planet.

The expedition began with a descent into the opening of the cave, a relatively gentle descent Photo: Christo Saayman into a hole surrounded by a four hours of enjoyable yet demanding physical grove. Before long the first tight space was activity came as a relief, as the stale dusty air of encountered: a narrow tunnel that required the cave was replaced with the fresh air above crawling on elbows. After conquering the first ground. tight squeeze, confidence mounted and the rest According to Theron, the JCP module requires of the trip flowed with comfortable ease and assisting a community in raising awareness minimal fear. surrounding the community and the challenges With a very low ceiling, an uneven floor and that it faces. When asked why he had chosen stalactites protruding from the cave ceiling, this particular approach to the module, he said protective helmets were an absolute necessity to that he wanted to expose students to the caving avoid injury. However, at some points helmets, community and give them the opportunity to jackets and even belts had to be removed in experience something that they would not have order to fit through the extremely small spaces. previously had the opportunity to experience.

Emerging at the exit of the cave after almost

campaigners for gay rights in Africa.

The majority of African states across the continent, however, do not recognise the rights of homosexuals. This is summarised on the website of the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA), who have listed the countries which recognise the sexual activities of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and intersexual people (LGBTI) as criminal offences. Over 30 of the African countries listed have anti-homosexual laws, including Angola, Zimbabwe, Somalia and Uganda.

Looking further north, Morocco recently made international headlines after videos released onto social media showed a crowd attacking a presumed homosexual man in public due to his appearance. This controversy came hot on the heels of another controversy on 19 June, where two men were imprisoned for four months after kissing in public in the city of Rabat.

In nearby Mauritania, any acts of homosexuality are punishable by death, according to their law.

All eyes on Australia The LGBTI community in Australia have welcomed the US Supreme Court’s ruling and hope to use this opportunity to carry the momentum of the decisions in Ireland and the US forward down under. Various online campaigns such as #TeamEqual and #LoveCantWait have also been launched by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), who were the largest marriage equality advocacy group in the US. The HRC have decided to focus the world’s attention onto the lack of marriage equality in Australia.

With the increase in the number of countries coming forward to advocate equal rights for all their citizens, it seems as though the rainbow of tolerance and love is set to shine brightly for generations to come.

He added that, from a community perspective, he hoped that the trip raised awareness among the students as to what is available to those interested in caving, as well as created awareness of the natural heritage available in South Africa. According to Dr Jordaan, many students conduct an awareness campaign as part of their JCP projects.

The consensus reached within the beginner group gathered by Theron was that caving is an extremely fun activity that they would choose to participate in again.

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Advertorial | 27 July 2015

27 July 2015 | Fun and Games

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Despite the prevailing attitude of general gloom after the holidays, Pssst…, for one is ecstatic to be back on campus for a new semester that promises to be rife with res blunders.

Pssst… thinks it’s cute that all the reses are scrambling to host their respective events before the semester becomes too hectic. Pssst… doesn’t think it really matters, though, since no one attended these events before.

Speaking of events nobody cares about, Pssst… heard through the grapevine that Taaibos and Katjiepiering hosted a loadshedding (sorry, blackout) party that was the very definition of primary school disco. Katte, if you wanted an awkward experience, Pssst… is sure that Kiaat could have given you one for free.

Still on the topic of arbitrary res events, Pssst… hears that Curlitzia’s Around the World party was a real trip. If you know what Pssst… means.

Second semester also means that hunting season is now officially open, as first years from the ladies’ reses are being ontheffed in quick succession. However, this does not excuse Mopanie’s recent behaviour. It has come to Pssst…’s attention that there have been a lot of complaints about Mopanie lately. It seems as though their Peppies are so desperate for female attention that they have taken to cat-calling the ladies from Katjiepiering even more than usual (pun intended). Mopanie, Pssst… honestly thinks that if you still don’t know that cat-calling is reserved for perverts, the desperate and people looking to be slapped, you probably deserve whatever is coming your way.

Then again, this desperation might be because Magrietjie is too busy spending their time with Boekenhout to even notice the Peppies anymore. This seems to be a recurring theme for Mopanie. Pssst… thinks they might have been better off keeping the Brakke company at the Taaibos July, since Pssst… hears things got a bit lonely down at Trademarx.

Olienhout gave a whole new meaning to ons gaan nou braai with their 12-hour-long braai. The braai is apparently a new tradition, which is odd for a res supposedly closing down next year. Pssst… thinks Olienhout is as unpredictable as a medium-rare steak.

In other, more predictable news, Zinnia still can’t keep their hands off of Kollege, Maroela are still binge-drinking their way through house meetings, and Madelief and Erika are still in hiding after their serrie disasters.

Pssst… would like to take a moment to dub Jasmyn the new Huis Hatfield Studios.

Congrats Klaradyn on returning to your real res status. Pssst… hopes that this means you’ll return to the Brooklyn Police holding cells soon. Pssst… has been getting lonely.

Serenade season is nearly upon us, which means even more juicy res news,and even more reasons to watch yourself – or you could always watch others and send some res gossip to pssst@perdeby.co.za.

12

Entertainment | 27 July 2015

Win tickets to

A few lucky readers will win tickets to Oppikoppi: The Fantastic Mr VosVos. All you have to do is send us a photo of you and your friends in your most creative VosVos getup on any UP campus.

Winners will be announced in our 3 August edition.

Photo: Brad Donald

Prof. Coetzee adresses the crowd on opening night. Photo: Stefan Stander

Performers in the production Scratch. Photo: Shen Scott

ELMARIE KRUGER

grown over the last 15 years. This year also marks the festival’s official name change to Krêkvars-Kopanong, which the organisers hope will signal a more diverse future for the festival.

The theatre productions that were presented at KrêkvarsKopanong this year catered to every taste. For those in search of serious theatre pieces, productions like Barbe Bleue, Lucidity and Senohe were a perfect fit. For theatre-goers in search of light-hearted comedy and musicals, the quirky Scratch, the witty Benjamin Walt or the shrewd Shedding the Load were shows worth looking out for.

Several professional guest performances were also on offer, namely Johnny Boskak Is Feeling Funny, Silent Prints, Synapses and Broken Chant.

KykNet made several short films from their Silwerskermfees available to be viewed free of charge at the festival. Overall, 2015 was a successful year for Krêkvars-Kopanong, and it is an event worth keeping an eye on for those who are interested in the arts.

For show reviews and photos, visit the Perdeby website at www.perdeby.co.za.

Krêkvars-Kopanong: the festival in retrospect The first week of the new semester kicked off with a bang for the UP drama department as it marked the start of their 15th annual Krêkvars-Kopanong student arts festival. This year the festival worked in association with KykNet, The State Theatre and the University of Stellenbosch’s Woordfees.

The festival showcased over 50 different productions, including theatre productions, dance performances and short film screenings. Krêkvars-Kopanong provides “a platform for young artists who are enthusiastic about theatre and performance and who generate fresh, original and innovative creative work,” says Prof. Marié-Heleen Coetzee, head of UP’s drama department.

Notable productions this year included Barbe Bleue: a story about madness and Makwerekwere, a physical theatre performance presented by Tuks Drama in association with the dance department at TUT. At the festival’s opening evening, Prof. Coetzee noted that the festival started small and that she is happy with the way it has

Lunch Hour Concerts 30 July: PBHS Dixie band & orchestra 6 August: Organ spectacular 13 August: Affies choirs 20 August: Hoërskool Waterkloof orchestra 27 August: UP symphonic winds 3 September: Charl du Plessis, pianist 10 September: Men & Ladies Serenade winners 17 September: UP Ovuwa cultural group 15 October: UP symphony orchestra 22 October: Tuks Camerata 29 October: Rock, pop and opera fusion

Photo: Shen Scott

Lunch break brilliance KYLE OBERHOLZER

Every Thursday at 12:30 a large group of chattering students, lecturers, parents and grandparents gather outside the Musaion for the weekly performances known as the Leo Haese Lunch Hour Concerts.

If you are a fan of live performances of any kind, these Lunch Hour Concerts are well worth attending. They serve primarily as a platform for members of the UP creative departments to showcase their work to the student body, but a multitude of local and international acts are also called upon from time to time to perform.

The crowd is a diverse mix of students, alumni and parents and this often results in powerful standing ovations combining cheering students and politely clapping older attendees. It is refreshing to witness such a diverse crowd bound together by the power of performance art, and it stands as a testament to the

quality and variety of the acts that take place at the Lunch Hour Concerts.

Each week’s concert lasts for approximately 50 minutes and are overseen and introduced by Reginald Masemola, a UP law student and member of UP’s Ovuwa group for five years. This year’s stage has already been filled by the likes of the UP symphony orchestra, multiple performances from the UP music and drama departments and, of course, the Tuks Camerata, who brought a filled hall to their feet in applause last quarter.

Performances resumed this semester on 23 July with a piano quartet by Prof. Wessel van Wyk. A full schedule is available on the UP Arts website and will see the return of some well-known favourites as well as some first-time performers. The concerts are free to attend and are a pleasant change from the usual lunch time coffee run. The experience is sure to leave you a little more cultured and far more aware of the talent that is present at our university.

Calendar 29 July: MSA Tuks Islamic Expo – Piazza 1 August: Craft beer, food & wine fair – Helderfontein estate 10-14 August: Tuks Serenade – Musaion 24 September: Freedom Fest – SuperSport Park 4 October: Vodacom in the City – Zoo Lake 16 October: Tuks International Day – Amphitheatre

To have your event listed in our event calendar, send the date, event name and venue to entertainment@perdeby.co.za or tweet us (@PerdebyE). UP societies are welcome to send their events too.

27 July 2015 | Entertainment

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Fomo Entertainment aims high SHAUN SPROULE

The entertainment industry in South Africa is booming, but some budding artists, entertainers and models find it difficult to battle their way to the top. UP student Oratile Mokubyane and friends, Thapelo Maropefela and Thuto Motale, have noticed this gap in the market and have embarked on the daunting task of starting an entertainment company. Fomo Entertainment aims to help artists reach new heights. Perdeby spoke to the founders about this promising new company.

With young up-and-comers heading the company, what does Fomo Entertainment have that other entertainment companies don’t?

Besides the fact that we have representatives whose work speaks volumes for itself and is relevant to the modern age, the fact that we are inexperienced is also an advantage because we can mix traditional and contemporary, [and sometimes] unorthodox methods, to spearhead our operations which places us at an advantage to fully exploit the market.

Fomo Entertainment was formed in mid-2014. What gave you the idea to start the company?

We were sick and tired of our fellow mates always wishing and hoping that they too would be like the likes of Cassper Nyovest, and they felt all they needed was for them to be scouted by top A&R [arts and repertoire] brands, so we wanted to bridge the gap by unearthing top but raw talent. We also wanted to be a

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multidimensional brand to be reckoned with in the near future because we feel that the entertainment and media industry is integrated.

So far, the company has young musician and MC Thapelo Tshoaedi (Tee P Nerd) and actor, presenter and model Thapelo Maropefela on their books. Are there any other names that may show up in the near future?

There are definitely other names we will be bringing on board, [there are just some] formalities that need to be sorted out.

Talent that will elevate Fomo Entertainment belongs at Fomo Entertainment.

The three founding members met in high school. How does the team work together to make the company successful?

I think our understanding of each other has been the driving force behind our steady progress, but having [access to] people who have already been successful in the industry [who are] advising us has also put us a step ahead. Communication becomes better when there is mutual trust and respect.

What does the company aim to do for the people it represents?

Fomo Entertainment is a company which operates in artist management, event planning and management, brand activation and promotions. All our stakeholders are sure to receive work of the highest quality and standard because we are guided by our mission statement which is: when it comes to people, quality shouldn’t be compromised, and [we aim to produce] quality.

Photo: Shen Scott

Barbe Bleue: a story of madness WILLIAM ALDRIDGE AND ELMARIE KRUGER After a notably successful year at the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown, Barbe Bleue: a story of madness returned to the University of Pretoria for the opening evening of KrêkvarsKopanong, the UP drama department’s annual student arts festival.

The show’s run in Grahamstown last year saw director and Tuks student Gopala Davies walk away with the Standard Bank Ovation award for best student director. Grahamstown Festival director Ismail Mahomed said the Ovation awards provide “a valuable incentive for artists on the festival’s Fringe programme to strive for excellence, experiment with innovation and to challenge and shift the boundaries of creativity”.

This frightening, mysterious, intriguing and comedic journey is coupled with excellent video work which plays throughout the show on a big screen at the back of the stage. This gives the production a feeling of unpredictability. It’s easy to see why Davies won the best director award in 2014, as his creativity and directing of his cast members’ every move and word is perfectly

placed. This type of physical theatre definitely pushes the boundaries of innovation with Davies’ use of original props and storytelling.

Barbe Bleue played to a capacity audience at the Lier theatre on Monday 20 July, in which the dark tale of Blue Beard, played

by Cassius Davids, and how he murdered his many wives is told. Barbe Bleue examines the effect that mental illness has on relationships. The performance is experimental in nature and will be appreciated by theatre lovers with open minds. While Barbe Bleue is based on a fairy tale, it does contain nudity and images that may disturb children and sensitive viewers.

Barbe Bleue will send a wave of conflicting emotions through the minds of audience members. At certain moments in the play, you may feel as if you are being exposed to Antonin Artaud’s Theatre of Cruelty, while at others the play takes on the guise of a pantomime. It manages to expertly drag the audience out of their comfort zones.

Blue Beard’s various wives are played by Dené Janse van Rensburg, Chante Geary, Jo-Ann McQuirk and Tina Redman, who all deliver fantastic vocal and theatrical performances.

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Forfeit Thee Untrue signs with Rottweiler Records THOMAS MARAIS AND ELMARIE KRUGER Forfeit Thee Untrue is a partially Tuks-bred metal Christian band which has been making waves in the local music industry. In 2014, Perdeby spoke to the band about the release of a possible full-length album.

The album is now ready for release and Perdeby had the opportunity to discuss it with the band once more. Forfeit Thee Untrue consists of Gideon Karsten (vocals and guitar), Mitch Pearson (vocals and guitar), Tuks student Eckard van Tonder (bass), and former Tuks student Craig Palmer (drums).

When Perdeby last spoke to the band, they were signed with Sanctus Gladius Records, but have now moved to Rottweiler Records. “It wasn’t so much about moving away from [our previous record company],” the band says, “but after two years the contract expired and we had received interest from another record label that we were also very attracted to. We are very grateful for what Sanctus Gladius did for us.” The band hopes that their decision to sign

with Rottweiler Records will open even more doors for them.

When asked about the release of their next album, Cremationem Jesus Lacrimam, the band says that their sound has developed since the release of their last EP, Blood Soaked Splinter, and that their music has become more expressive.

Pearson adds that he hopes “many more people [will be] reached through [the band’s] message and music.”

Pearson also says that the band is “very satisfied with the success of [the] Blood Soaked Splinter EP. We have enjoyed many gigs, meet and greets and ministry opportunities because of it so far. We hope for many more of these things with our upcoming full album.”

Karsten comments that fans were “longing for a full album for quite some time” and that the band hopes to reach a wider audience with their new album’s material.

In the near future, the band would “love to do a countrywide tour to promote the album as much as possible, as well as play at some more local venues [they] haven’t had the opportunity to play at [yet]”. They would also like to release “a longoverdue music video as well as [a] DVD of the making of the album.”

14

Advertorial | 27 July 2015

27 July 2015 | Sport

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UP hockey shines at USSA 2015 THANDO CELE

The UP goalball team. Photo: Carli-Ann Furno

UP launches new season of goalball CARLI-ANN FURNO The UP-Tuks Student Sports Committee (SSC) have recently invested in a sport for blind and visually impaired students. Goalball was introduced in the second semester of last year, and students were anticipating the third goalball tournament which was held on 25 July.

Twelve UP students will be participating in the upcoming tournament, consisting of both a female and male team. Goalball practise began on Monday 20 July. Mashooda Sedibeng, captain of the female team, and Thabang Manamela, captain of the male team, are approaching the goalball season focusing on “motivation as being the key to success and victory”. SSC representative Dimpho Vilankulu is excited about the tournament ahead and says, “This sport inspires me. It is a means to accommodate students who are said to have ‘disabilities’. This sport engages them in the university’s student life.”

The sport was recognised by the world for the first time at the Paralympic Games in 1976 in Toronto, Canada. The object of the game is to roll a ball across the backline of the opposing team. Bells inside the ball help to orientate the players, who have the objective of blocking the ball with their bodies. Two teams consisting of three players each stand on opposite sides of the court and listen for the oncoming ball, moving toward the sound. A thin rope or tape on the floor keeps the players aware of their position within the court. The game consists of two halves of 12 minutes each, and there are usually several games in a tournament.

Goalball players are required to wear blindfolds at all times, as some players are partially visually impaired, as well as safety gear that protects their bodies from injuries in their attempts to defend the backline. Complete silence is required in the venue when the game begins, as players depend on senses other than sight to play the game.

The 2015 edition of the annual USSA Hockey tournament took place in Pietermaritzburg from 29 June to 3 July and saw UP Hockey’s finest finish first and fifth in the men’s and ladies’ sections, respectively. The Candy Stripes men won four games out of five one year after being promoted back to the A-section.

The men were up against a tricky round of fixtures in a pool that pinned them against the University of Stellenbosch (Maties), hosts the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal (UKZN) and Gauteng neighbour the University of Johannesburg (UJ). The UP men, however, went about their business in a professional yet ruthless manner, starting off the tournament with an exciting 5-3 win over their old archenemy Maties, followed by a convincing 6-0 victory over UKZN. Their only loss in the tournament came at the hands of UJ, in which an end-toend and action packed match ended in a narrow 2-1 loss. The loss, however, did not impact the overall standings which saw UP top their pool and set up a semi-final clash against the University of the Free State. The semi-final was a very one-sided affair that saw the Candy Stripes come out 8-0 victors.

The final against Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) did not contain as much action as UP’s pool matches.

UP played an attacking game against the everimproving NMMU, also known as the Madibaz,

and came out 3-0 winners to be crowned the 2015 USSA Champions. Overall, the UP men’s hockey team conceded just four goals and kept three clean sheets out of five, while scoring a total of 24 goals. UP capped off their campaign with striker Richard Pautz being named player of the tournament for his consistent display of skill and flair.

The Candy Stripes ladies experienced difficulties and indifference at this year’s tournament as injuries to key players before and during the competition ultimately was the largest drawback for the 2013 champions. The UP ladies started the tournament well with a comfortable 9-0 drubbing of Varsity College Durban North, announcing their intent for the tournament. Defeats at the hands of Maties and UJ, 3-1 and 4-0 respectively, left the Candy Stripes ladies playing for fifth position against NMMU. The ladies won their game 3-2 to end off what proved to be a disappointing tournament.

Both the UP ladies’ and men’s first teams will shift their focus onto the Northern Hockey League, with the league resuming this semester.

The men will be looking to cap off a successful year so far by being crowned champions of Northern Gauteng again, while the ladies will be looking to redeem themselves and recapture their Varsity Cup form which saw them finish third earlier this year, and hopefully be the number one ladies hockey team in the province once again come October.

Players at the launch of Varsity Cup Football. Photo: Carli-Ann Furno

Varsity Cup Football kicks off THORISO PHASHA With the Varsity Cup Football tournament once again nearly upon us, we take a look at the teams set to battle it out for varsity football’s most coveted prize. The annual football tournament enters its third instalment, having been established in 2013, and promises ten weeks of action.

UP-Tuks go into the competition as defending champions having monopolised the competition since its inception with two titles in the trophy cabinet. Captained by Rubin Swartz, UP-Tuks are eager to clinch their third consecutive title.

Their first match is against local rivals Tshwane University of Technology (TUT).

Tuks attacker Mbongeni Masilela said, “It’s always good to play against our neighbours, it’s a display of how competitive Pretoria football is. They are a tough, well organised team..” UPTuks head coach Evangelos Vellios said, “There is always pressure at the University of Pretoria [to retain the cup]. We like to dominate not only in football but in all sports, so the biggest pressure is the one we put on ourselves, and we thrive under pressure.”

TUT will be out for revenge as they look to bounce back from previous disappointments.

TUT were unceremoniously excluded from the 2014 tournament due to fielding an ineligible player during the USSA qualifiers.

The Vaal University of Technology (VUT) enters the Varsity Cup as newcomers, but any team that underestimates them will do so to their own detriment. VUT won’t be pushovers, having beaten both UP-Tuks and Wits University in the 2014 USSA tournament.

Walter Sisulu University will also enter the tournament for the first time, with their opening Varsity Cup match against fellow newcomers

North West University (Pukke).

Pukke beat their Mafikeng-based merger campus in a two-legged USSA qualifying series last year to enter the tournament. Pukke will undoubtedly be considered as underdogs in their debut season of the Varsity Cup, but will hopefully be spurred on by the need to prove themselves.

Wits endured a disastrous first season in the Varsity Cup, winning a solitary match and losing their six other fixtures in the 2013 tournament.

After failing to qualify for the 2014 competition, they are back this year with a solid squad.

The University of the Western Cape (UWC) has played in all the Varsity Cup tournaments to date but has never progressed into the knockout stages. This is a record they will look to put behind them as they aim for the title.

Home-ground advantage often gives a psychological edge on the field, however this will be a minimal luxury for Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU). NMMU will play five of their seven round-robin fixtures away from home in this year’s competition.

Spectators can expect goals aplenty as Varsity Cup fixtures have been known to produce some impressive scorelines, with 153 goals being scored in just two seasons. Form and history will count for very little as all teams start on level pegging. An opening win, however, will definitely give some measure of confidence going forward. The tournament kicked off with a north versus south encounter between Wits and UWC on 20 July.

This season also looks to be one for the fans to enjoy, with competitions like the flavour freestyle, scrabble challenge and kick for cash.

Tickets to the matches are free when booked through the Varsity Sports app, with tickets at the gate costing you R10.

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Ten minutes with South Africa’s sub-tens CARLI-ANN FURNO UP students Akani Simbine and Henrico Bruintjies have recently made international headlines as the fastest South African athletes Henrico Bruintjies Your personal best was 10.17 s last year, and this year you achieved a 10.06 s time. Did you have any expectation of running a sub-ten time during the international season?

I had been battling with some injuries in the beginning of the season, so I didn’t have any expectation of running a sub-ten at all. I expected, maybe, a 10.10 s time or somewhere around there, but my goal was just to run fast and give my personal best, so running a sub-ten was just a blessing from God. What are your hopes for the World Championships in Beijing?

My goal is just to go there and perform my best, or close to my best, and hopefully to make the final.

How do you feel about and plan to approach running against Usain Bolt at the World Championships for the first time?

Usain Bolt is not the only top name that I might be running against. I think my focus is not going to be on anyone other than myself, so I am just going to go there and try to execute a proper race and do my best.

There are some impressive names that will make up the 4x100 m relay team in Beijing, such as yourself and Akani Simbine. What are your expectations for the relay?

With enough training as a relay team, we are capable of doing great things at the World Championships. I hope we get some quality training in, because we have a really good relay squad, so if the guys can put their focus on the relay I think we could hopefully end up on the podium.

How are you coping with your sudden fame and popularity?

I think that if you are easily influenced by attention from the outside, like the media coverage, it could become a problem to stay humble. The thing to remember is that you never know how long you will be given to stay on top, so when you are in that place you should stay humble, because that way when you find yourself at a low point again, you remain the same person. I feel like I am a normal, humble guy and that is how I am going to stay, I don’t want to change.

in the 100 m sprint. Not only have they joined an elite group of athletes around the world who have broken the ten-second barrier, but they have also set a new South African record of 9.97 s, shaving 0.02 s off the previous record

held by Simon Magakwe. Perdeby spoke to these athletes, who were excited to share the news of their achievement with UP-Tuks.

USSA: Tuks teams triumph at championships TAY LETHULOE

Akani Simbine In an interview with Perdeby earlier this year you explained that your focus has always been on making sure that you “run a perfect race”, and that your body would run that race under ten seconds when it was ready. How did it feel to cross the finish line and see that you had finally been rewarded for your focus and hard work?

It is difficult to describe in a few words, but it felt completely surreal. It was like I had been waiting for this moment, and suddenly it was there. I was so chuffed with my body, but it felt super painful at the same time.

Did you think that your body was ready to run the sub-ten in this year’s international season?

Yes. I knew my body was ready to run a 9 [second time], but I just needed the right race with the right conditions to allow that to happen.

Your coach, Werner Prinsloo, has been on this journey with you since it began in high school.

What was his reaction when he realised you had run a sub-ten?

He was shocked. He never believed me for a second, and when I told him that this was real and that I was being serious he was completely overjoyed.

Do you feel that you have the potential to be one of the world’s best sprinters now that you have seen your body reach new heights?

Yes. I believe that I can be one of the best, if not the best. It will take waiting for the right time, pushing myself past any limits and making sure I get the job done.

What are your hopes for the World Championship in Beijing now that you are running the best times you have ever run?

My focus is staying the same. I still hope to get into the final for the 100 m race.

Top: Akani Simbine. Bottom: Henrico Bruintjies.

Images provided.

A portion of the USSA championships took place between 24 June and 3 July, with events taking place at universities around the country.

Netball The UP ladies were able to avenge their 2014 Varsity Netball loss to the University of the Free State, outplaying them for a 48-39 win in the final. This secured them the USSA netball championship as they defended their 2014 title. The team lost just one of their matches during the tournament.

Golf Port Shepstone hosted the USSA golf tournament. UP was able to secure the title for an unprecedented tenth time.

Squash TuksSquash was able to impress in this year’s competition by finishing in second position behind the University of Johannesburg (UJ). They improved on the previous year’s fourth place finish. Nell van der Merwe and Megan Page were selected for the USSA Squash top six.

Cycling UP were unable to defend their title in Stellenbosch as they finished fourth overall this year. The UP-Tuks women were able to pull off an overall victory.

Winner Elmari de Wet and Angie de Boer were selected for the USSA national team.

Badminton In the only tournament hosted at UP, Tuks were able to come away with a bronze finish.

Gymnastics The gymnastics team earned a bronze medal in Port Elizabeth.

Rugby UP looked to improve upon their disappointing Varsity Cup campaign and did so, narrowly losing out to UJ 14-13 in the final to finish as runner-ups.

The next phase of the competition will take place in September with the boat race, cross country, women’s sevens rugby and canoeing taking place.

Tough season awaits AmaTuks DANIËL BASSON AmaTuks have been in preseason training since late June ahead of the 2015/16 season that kicks off in the second weekend of August. Last season was rather disappointing for AmaTuks as they only managed to finish 11th in the Absa Premiership, losing the opportunity to take part in the MTN 8.

In the previous season AmaTuks struggled when playing away from home, and if it was not for their inspired form at the Tuks Stadium on LC de Villiers campus earlier this year, the side’s top flight status could have been in jeopardy.

Unfortunately, AmaTuks has struggled yet again to keep their star performers at the club, a problem which seems to plague the side come every transfer window. Geoffrey Massa has been sold to Bloemfontein Celtic while Siyabonga Ngubane and Mpho Matsi have made the move to Mpumalanga Black Aces.

It’s not all bad news, though. AmaTuks were

boosted early on in the post-season when it was announced that experienced centre-back Tebogo Monyai had signed a one-year contract extension with the club after it had seemed that he was on the brink of retirement. Monyai played an important role in Tuks’ survival last season and might still have a vital role to play at the club.

UP’s squad has also been bolstered by the signing of 21-year-old Harry Edge from Dutch club PEC Zwolle. The midfielder caught the eye of the coaches during AmaTuks’ tour of the Netherlands. He is likely to play in a central midfield position and should add to the sides’ attacking ability.

Tuks signed Polokwane City defensive partners Kabelo Lichaba and Vukile Mngqibisa, and head coach Sammy Troughton said on the club’s official website that they have been interested in the 29-year-old Lichaba for the past few years and he hopes that the signing will solve the issues they had at left-back last season. Troughton also added that he had signed

AmaTuks warming up. Images provided.

Lichaba for free on a precontractual agreement in January.

AmaTuks were joined in training by former Bafana Bafana striker Katlego Mphela. The player did not, however, train at the club for a long period of time, but any knowledge passed onto youngsters from such an experienced player can go a long way. It has not been announced who will fill the gap left by frontman Massa.

Namibian-based Ghanaian player Alhassan Kalusha was on trial at AmaTuks in late June

after being recommended to coach Troughton.

The youngster has been labelled a “playmaker” and can play as an attacking midfielder or a striker, but it has not yet been announced whether UP will sign the 21-year-old.

The 2015/16 season is set to be a tough one for AmaTuks as they aspire to keep their position in the Absa Premiership. The season’s opening fixture takes place on 8 August as AmaTuks face newly promoted Golden Arrows away from home.

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