September 2016 October 2016
2 AS the clock is ticking, so are our hearts that are pumping fast as we are eagerly waiting for Sunday, October 23. This is not a normal day, but the day that will go down the country’s historical books of football as we cross our fingers for Mamelodi Sundowns to bring home the CAF Champions League home. The Brazilians have already put one hand to this continental silver-ware after winning the first leg of this two-legged final match against the once Afri-
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can giants, Zamalek via a 3-0 victory at their Lucas Moripe Stadium and all they need to do is to go out there in Alexandra, Egypt to finish the job. We are also looking forward to the Absa Premiership’s local derbies involving Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates at FNB Stadium on October 29 and another one, and this time the first ever Polokwane Derby in the Absa Premiership involving Baroka FC and Polokwane City on October 30.
Benny”s Academy finshes 15th in the world cup of Danone
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Lerato Jiyane
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THE Benny’s Academy produced their best performance during the 2016 world cup of the Danone Nations Cup played in France Out of the 32 clubs from across the world, the Venda, Limpopo based side finished outfit finished on the 14th spot. Despite losing their chance of making it in the final match, the SA side which is regarded as the best team to have played in the competition since 2009 enjoyed the support from fans even on the last day of the tournament as the crowd went crazy when they took to the field in their last match against Russia which however saw them lost 3-1 through penalties. This after our boys managed to force the Russians who had taken an early lead via a penalties before they could leveled the matter to 1-1 through Xolani Muyela, who scored his fifth goal of the tournament. Both teams attacked to win the game with South Africa having the best opportunities but neither team could score so the game went to penalties. The SA finished second on group stages after winning two matches and losing one. This after they opened their matches with a 1-0 victory over South
Korea before they could turn their wrath on Italy with a 3-1 drubbing but only to lose 1-0 to the ultimate group winners, Indonesia who beat them 1-0. In the second phase the Limpopo side lost to a set of 1-0 to Brazil and Tunisia respectively before they could redeem themselves with a 2-1 victory over Uruguay. In the end it was an academy from Germany that won the tournament 3-1 after they beat Japan 3-1 via penalties.
September 2016 October 2016
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City through to TKO Quarters
CAPE Town City’s Premiership fairytale continues after the club became the first one to qualify for the quarter-finals of the Telkom Knockout, WRITES NAKAMPE LEKWADU. The Cape side’ star has been shining bright since their arrival in the top flight after John Comitis’s decision to buy Mpumalanga Black Aces before he could rename the club and relocate it to Cape Town. City beat the visiting Bloemfontein Celtic 2-0 in the last 16 of the Telkom Knockout with goals scored by Sibusiso Masina and an own goal by Kabelo Mahlasela. The match is the first of the eight last-16 encounters to take place, with the last game set to be played when champions Mamelodi Sundowns host Polokwane City at Lucas Moripe Stadium next Thursday. The start of the competition marks the first steps towards the R4-million
prize, which will be handed to the winners at the December 10 final. The Cape Town City-Bloemfontein Celtic match was followed by Highlands Park against Chippa United at Makhulong Stadium on Friday (October 21). The Chilli Boys will be hoping to get back to winning ways after suffering a first league loss of the season at the weekend. “In football such things happen, you win some and you lose some,” Dan Malesela, the coach, said. “We lost against Sundowns in the cup and bounced back. We must go back to the training ground and fix what we did not do right.” The match will be the first for new Highlands coach Gordon Igesund. There are three further matches on Saturday. Free State Stars host MTN8 champions Bidvest Wits at Goble Park, Kaizer Chiefs play Mar-
itzburg United at FNB Stadium and SuperSport United tackle Ajax Cape Town at Lucas Moripe Stadium. Amakhosi boss Steve Komphela is relishing the battle with his former club. “Knockout competition games are must win games and we will prepare accordingly,” he added. “It’s going to be a difficult game against Maritzburg United. But we’d like to remain in the mode of winning games and we will start this weekend.” On Sunday, Orlando Pirates will battle it out with league high-fliers Golden Arrows at Orlando Stadium and Baroka FC will debut against Platinum Stars at Peter Mokaba Stadium. The action then concludes with that Sundowns-Polokwane contest in Atteridgeville. The full list of last 16 fixtures are: Wednesday, October 19 19h30 - Cape Town City v Bloem Celtic - Cape Town Stadium Friday, October 21 20h00 - Highlands Park v Chippa United - Makhulong Stadium Saturday, October 22 15h00 - Free State Stars v Bidvest Wits - Goble Park Stadium 20h15 - Kaizer Chiefs v Maritzburg Utd - FNB Stadium 20h15 - SuperSport United v Ajax Cape Town - Lucas Moripe Stadium Sunday, October 23 15h00 - Orlando Pirates v Golden Arrows - Orlando Stadium 15h00 - Baroka FC v Platinum Stars - Peter Mokaba Stadium Thursday, October 27 18h00 - Mamelodi Sundowns v Polokwane City - Lucas Moripe Stadium
Explore The Ultimate African Heritage Experience
September 2016
Visit Maropeng - the official visitor center of The Cradle of Humankind World heritage Site and explore the infamous Sterkfontein Caves: Visitor Centre T h e v i s i t o r c e n t r e a t M a r o p e n g s h o w c a s e s t h e C r a d l e o f H u m a n k i n d W o r l d H e r i t a g e S i t e a n d t h e u n p r e c e d e n t e d q u a n t i t y o f h o m i n i n f o s s i l s d i s c o v e r e d i n t h i s a r e a . A b o a t r i d e t a k e s v i s i t o r s t h r o u g h t h e l i f e - g i v i n g e l e m e n t s o f w a t e r , ice, earth and fire and thereafter interactive displays provide a n u n d e r s t a n d i n g o f t h e u n i q u e c h a r a c t e r i s t i c s o f m o d e r n h u m a n k i n d a n d i m p a r t a m u l t i t u d e o f i n t r i g u i n g f a c t s a b o u t t h e h u m a n p o p u l a t i o n . T h e v i s i t o r c e n t r e i s o p e n d a i l y f r o m 9 a m t o 5 p m , a n d t h e l a s t b o a t r i d e d e p a r t s a t 4 p m . C o n t a c t M a r o p e n g o n 0 1 4 5 7 7 9 0 0 0 o r i n f o @ m a r o p e n g . c o . z a f o r f u r t h e r i n f o r m a t i o n , o r v i s i t w w w . m a r o p e n g . c o . z a .
Sterkfontein Caves T h e S t e r k f o n t e i n C a v e s i n t h e C r a d l e o f H u m a n k i n d W o r l d H e r i t a g e S i t e i s o n e o f t h e r i c h e s t a n d m o s t p r o d u c t i v e p a l e a o - a n t h r o p o l o g i c a l h o m i n i d f o s s i l s i t e s i n t h e w o r l d , h a v i n g y i e l d e d s o m e o f t h e m o s t v a l u a b l e a n d o l d e s t e v i d e n c e o f t h e o r i g i n s o f h u m a n k i n d e v e r f o u n d . T h e c a v e s a r e o p e n d a i l y f r o m 9 a m t o 5 p m . G u i d e d t o u r s a r e a v a i l a b l e a n d t h e l a s t t o u r d e p a r t s a t 4 p m . B o o k i n g i s a d v i s a b l e a s v i s i t o r n u m b e r s a r e l i m i t e d .
Hotel T h e 2 4 - b e d r o o m b o u t i q u e h o t e l o v e r l o o k s t h e d i s t a n t W i t w a t e r s b e r g a n d M a g a l i e s b e r g m o u n t a i n r a n g e s . T h e i n t e r i o r h a s b e e n d e s i g n e d c o m b i n i n g m o d e r n f e a t u r e s w i t h t h e a n c i e n t elements of earth, fire, water a n d i c e . P u b l i c f a c i l i t i e s i n c l u d e a stylish yet cosy lounge with a fire p l a c e , a c h i c r e s t a u r a n t a n d b a r l e a d i n g o u t o n t o a p a t i o a n d s w i m m i n g p o o l . C o n t a c t M a r o p e n g o n 0 1 4 5 7 7 9 0 0 0 o r i n f o @ m a r o p e n g . c o . z a f o r f u r t h e r i n f o r m a t i o n , o r v i s i t w w w . m a r o p e n g . c o . z a .
www.maropeng.co.za
Name: Terrah Modulathoko September 2016 Surname: Mapaila Birthdate: 24 February 1990 Birthplace: Acornhoek, Limpopo School: Matriculated from Maripe Senior in 2007 Hobbies: Writing, cooking, and outgoing Favourite Dish: Dumbling, chicken stew and spinach Favourite Music: Gospel
I am a loving person, and I have been always dreaming to become a teacher or a nurse. My dream changed as I grew up and decided to follow modeling and lms. If not busy at Rage Modeling Agency, she keeps herself busy on writing her book which she is intending to wrap it very soon
September 2016 October 2016
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The Color Run is back, Cape Town!
The Color Run™, happening at the Green Point Track on 12 November 2016, is one of the highlights on The Color Run South Africa’s calendar. With tickets already almost sold out, the 2016 event looks set to be one of the biggest, brightest, and happiest in Cape Town for the year. The Color Run is a five kilometre un-timed race in which thousands of participants, or “Color Runners”, are doused from head to toe in different colours at each kilometre. Founded in 2011 in the USA, The Color Run has grown to become the single largest event series in the world, touching over 200 cities around the globe, and millions of Color Runners with joy and rainbows. The Color Run is built on four principles: be happy, be healthy, be you, and give back to the community. This year, with the generous help of headline sponsor Capitec Bank, Parkview Primary School will be
the recipient of money raised at the event. For every ticket sold, R10.00 will be donated to the school to help with the purchasing of much needed equipment. “We have partnered with Adopt-ASchool Foundation, which identifies, on our behalf, schools in need of assistance in each area where The Color Run holds an event,” says Capitec Bank’s head of communications, Charl Nel. Heart FM, the Western Cape’s biggest commercial radio station, is the official radio partner to The Color Run in Cape Town for the fourth consecutive year. Heart FM DJs will be on the decks to welcome Color Runners with awesome beats as the run gets under way. Charity and school fundraising is a big part of The Color Run. Register your own school or charity on the Fun Raiser programme and raise money for every ticket sold under
your unique Fun Raiser code. To give back, contact The Color Run on hello@thecolorrun.co.za. Tickets are available online from The Color Run website (http://thecolorrun.co.za) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/TheColorRunSouthAfrica). Individual ticket prices are R250 and R225 for groups of 4 or more. Manual entry points are listed on our website. Late entries, or tickets bought on the day are R300. Don’t forget, kids under the age of 10 run free. Stay tuned to Heart FM on your frequency for updates on The Color Run. Color Runners will each receive a race pack with includes a Rainbow Tour edition race T-Shirt, headband, bag of colour powder, temporary tattoos, and a race number. Additionally, every Color Runner will receive a R200 coupon for use on the Superbalist.com app. Ts&Cs apply.
September 2016 October 2016
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All set for Southpaw Showdown
CRUISEWEIGHT puncher Kevin Lerena will be facing the fight of his life this weekend when he boxes unbeaten Dane Micki Nielsen for the Super Four title at Emperors Palace. The Golden Gloves tournament will be broadcast live on SS7 from 8pm. Lerena and Nielsen were both winners in the first round of the four-man contest and will square off for the $100 000 purse, with the winner getting the bigger chunk of a 60-40 split. Both have enjoyed extended training camps and look in outstanding shape. The form going in suggests it will be Lerena’s speed and movement against Nielsen’s power and grit.
Apart from the booty on offer, Lerena is motivated by Nielsen’s top 10 world ranking. Defeating his fellow southpaw will give Lerena a springboard into the big time and the possibility of major international fights. Included on one of the best bills of the year is Hekkie Budler’s comeback after his shock world title defeat seven months ago against Byron Rojas. He’s chosen a young, hungry fighter to try his luck against – little dynamo Siyabonga Siyo from the Eastern Cape. Siyo, like Budler himself, is a nonstop puncher who uses angles and has an outstanding work rate. Budler may be the odds-on favourite, but
any repeat of his last fight, when he was strangely lacklustre, will see him upset by the excellent prospect. Meanwhile, after a run of six fights in America, former IBO welterweight champion Chris van Heerden will fight in SA for the first time in three years against Namibia’s Sacky Shikikutu. The popular southpaw mixed in highclass company in the US, but the death of his promoter and the obvious benefits of fighting at home drew him back to Emperors Palace, where he fought three times previously. Never less than supremely fit, Van Heerden will nonetheless have his hands full against Shikikutu, who has won nine of his past 10 fights. At catchweight, there is a thrilling rematch between Nyelasani Thagambege and DeeJay Kriel over eight rounds. Kriel won in controversial fashion the first time round, but Thagambege twice had him on the canvas. Saturday night ought to settle matters.
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September 2016
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September 2016 October 2016
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Fans eagerly awaits local derbies
SOWETO and Polokwane’s crazy football fans are eagerly waiting for local derbies in their cities on the last weekend of October, WRITES NAKAMPE LEKWADU The main action will start on Saturday, October 29 at the FNB Stadium in a form of the famous Soweto Derby involving traditional arch-rivals, Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs in what is expected to be an explosive match. The last time the two sides met saw the mighty Amakhosi emerging 2-0 victory over the Sea Robers via the Carling Black Label Cup and it remain to be seen as to which of the two will dictate the flow on the day. On Sunday, October 30, spectators can expect an action galore as the focus shift to Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, Limpopo where newly promoted Baroka FC will welcome
Polokwane City in a Polokwane Derby. The match between Bakgaga and Rise and Shine as both the Limpopo sides are fondly known by those who love them will be the first derby in their Absa Premiership campaign and it is expected to draw a huge crowd. In their last encounter, City emerged 2-0 victors over Baroka during the Nedbank Cup and it remain to be seen if the Kgoloke Thobejane’s charges will have an opportunity of avenging that defeat. The rest of Absa Premiership’s fixtures for the month of October are: Tuesday, October 25, 2016 19:30 Chippa United v Bloem Celtic Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium Wednesday, October 26, 2016 19:30 Ajax Cape Town v Bidvest Wits Cape Town Stadium
Friday, October 28, 2016 20:00 Maritzburg Utd v Golden Arrows Harry Gwala Stadium 20:00 Chippa United v Platinum Stars Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium Saturday, October 29, 2016 15:30 Orlando Pirates v Kaizer Chiefs F N B S t a d i u m 20:15 Ajax Cape Town v SuperSport United Cape Town Stadium 20:15 Bloem Celtic v B i d vest Wits Dr. Molemela Stadium Sunday, October 30, 2016 15:30 Mamelodi Sundowns v Cape Town City Loftus Versfeld Stadium 15:30 Baroka FC v Polokwane City New Peter Mokaba Stadium 15:30 Highlands Park v Free State Stars Makhulong Stadium
September 2016 October 2016
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Cheetahs aiming high against Bulls THE Toyota Free State Cheetahs will look for a fairy-tale finish to the Currie Cup, after progressing through the competition unbeaten, when they host the Vodacom Blue Bulls in Bloemfontein on Saturday in what will mark the 10th final between the sides. A victory for the Toyota Free State Cheetahs in the Currie Cup final – brought to you by DirectAxis and Nashua – would not only earn them their first title since 2007, it would also mark their 10th straight win this season. They will, however, face a Vodacom Blue Bulls outfit who are equally hungry for success as they last won the title in 2009 – incidentally against the Free Staters in Pretoria – and who also come off an impressive winning run of five matches. But looking at the history of Currie Cup finals between these teams, it’s clear the Toyota Free State Cheetahs will have their work cut out for them. The Vodacom Blue Bulls have won seven of the nine previous finals between the sides from 1973 to 2009, while the teams shared the title in 2006 after playing to a 28-28 draw after an exhausting 100 minutes of rugby. Adding spice to the clash, there is an intense rivalry between the teams as they met in back-to-back Currie Cup finals from 2004 to 2006, with each side winning one, while the other match ended in a draw. In the six Currie Cup Finals hosted by the Toyota Free State Cheetahs since 1939, they have lost three, won two and registered one draw.
Earlier in the season, the Toyota Free State Cheetahs registered a brilliant 43-20 victory against the Vodacom Blue Bulls in the pool stages of the competition, but the Pretoria side defeated them 20-17 in the Currie Cup Qualifier at Loftus Versfeld. The hosts, however, boast better statistics on attack and defence than the Pretoria side, with 55 tries scored and 21 conceded in their nine matches this season, to 42 tries scored by the Vodacom Blue Bulls and 29 conceded. They will, however, be wary of writing off the Vodacom Blue Bulls, who found themselves in a similar situation in the 2005 Currie Cup Final – on a nine-match winning running and playing with confidence in front of their home crowd – when the Free Staters defied the odds to take their first title in 29 years. The SA Rugby Under-19 and Under-21 Championship Finals between Western Province and the Golden Lions will be played as cur-
tain-raisers to the Currie Cup final at 11h00 and 13h00 respectively. Fixtures: Toyota Free State Cheetahs v Vodacom Blue Bulls – Currie Cup Final Venue: Toyota Stadium, Bloemfontein Kick-off: 16h00 Referee: Jaco Peyper TV: SS1 Western Province v Golden Lions – SA Rugby U21 Championship Venue: Toyota Stadium, Bloemfontein Kick-off: 13h00 Referee: AJ Jacobs TV: SS1 Western Province v Golden Lions – SA Rugby U19 Championship Venue: Toyota Stadium, Bloemfontein Kick-off: 11h00 Referee: Vusi Msibi TV: SS1
September 2016 October 2016
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Proteas gear up for pink ball challenge THE Standard Bank Proteas begin their pink ball preparation with a twoday tour match against a Cricket Australia XI at the Adelaide Oval on Saturday. The day-night tour match will be followed by another two-day match with the red ball, as preparations step up a gear ahead of the opening Test against Australia starting at the WACA Ground in Perth on November 3rd.
Australia after a forgettable debut match in 2012. “I think we’ve given ourselves a lot of time coming to Australia before the first Test,” he said of the squad’s preparation. “It’s up to us how we manage it, we have to use our time wisely which we have been allocated by management. We will definitely have enough time to prepare for the first Test match.” Tour Itinerary
Proteas opening batsman, Dean Elgar, who is one of the few squad members to have played with the pink ball during the South Africa ‘A’ tour to Australia in August, says the squad is managing with the challenges and adjusting to the uncharted territory of day-night Test cricket.
22 – 23 October – 2-day Tour match, Adelaide Oval 14h00 (Pink ball) 27 – 28 October – 2-day Tour match, Gliderol Stadium 10h30 3 – 7 November – 1st Test, WACA Ground Perth 10h30 12 – 16 November – 2nd Test, Blundstone Arean Hobart 10h30 19 – 20 November – 2-day Tour match, MCG (Pink ball) 24 – 28 November – 3rd Test, Adelaide Oval 14h00 (Pink Ball)
“Today is our second practice with the pink ball,” Elgar said at the Adelaide Oval on Thursday. “I think yesterday was a good outing for us. We practised in the evening during the twilight period which has been a talking point so far. I think the guys are quite excited, it’s exciting to play some Test cricket again. “I played with the pink ball against the Australia ‘A’ side a couple of months ago which was a good outing for myself knowing that we are playing in Australia now,” he said. “ It swings a little bit more upfront for longer periods, I think that is probably the only difference.” Although the day-night Test match is the last fixture of the three-Test series, Elgar believes every session of preparation will be vital as the majority of the players make the shift from ODI to Test cricket. The 29 year-old
has made a full recovery from the freak ankle injury that side-lined him for the second Sunfoil Test match against New Zealand in August, which the Proteas won by 204 runs, and is eager to make an impact in
Standard Bank Proteas Test squad: Faf du Plessis (Multiply Titans, capt), Kyle Abbott (Warriors), Hashim Amla (BuildNat Cape Cobras), Temba Bavuma (bizhub Highveld Lions), Stephen Cook (bizhub Highveld Lions), Quinton de Kock (Multiply Titans), JP Duminy (BuildNat Cape Cobras), Dean Elgar (Multiply Titans), Keshav Maharaj (Hollywoodbets Dolphins), Morne Morkel (Multiply Titans), Vernon Philander (BuildNat Cape Cobras), Kagiso Rabada (bizhub Highveld Lions), Rilee Rossouw (VKB Knights), Tabraiz Shamsi (Multiply Titans), Dale Steyn (BuildNat Cape Cobras), Dane Vilas (BuildNat Cape Cobras).-www.cricket.co.za
September 2016
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Dikwena supports future Stars PLATINUM Stars Football Club has partnered with Royal Bafokeng Sports (RBS) and Royal Bafokeng Holdings (RBH) in order to unearth talent. Dikwena, RBS and RBH will host a mini football festival at Bonwakgogo Primary School in Robega Village, where U13 players from eight primary schools will battle it out in the TOP8 of Metshameko Sports Programme on Saturday, October 22 from 9am to 5pm. Through Platinum Stars Soccer Schools, the club has channeled resources to provide proper development to a number of schools in a number of Bafokeng regions. Stars Academy Manager Kagiso Marumo says the weekend’s event is part of the club’s commitment to brewing talent in North West communities. “A few years ago, we launched Platinum Stars Soccer Schools with the aim of not only identifying talent but also empowering local coaches with necessary tools needed for development of a modern day player. We have managed to recruit talent to the club. On Saturday we will be looking at talent that we can incorporate into our academy for next year. Our coaches will be scouting. We might have one or two players we can bring into our academy. It’s part of our recruitment drive as well to ensure that we get players from these communities.” Marumo revealed that Dikwena will be on the lookout for talented youngsters, who could form part of the club’s academy structures in the future. Marumo says Dikwena’s involvement is part of the club’s role in uplifting the community. “It’s part of our strategic goals to give
back to the community hence we have partnered with RBS and RBH that we want to plough back into our community. Development is vital hence we are looking into schools. It’s easier to get talent from schools. Part of the purpose is to unearth talent and develop it not only for Platinum Stars but for the country at large,” said Marumo. For years now RBS has committed itself to development of sports in the Northwest Province. Head of Royal Bafokeng Sports Eugene Thipe says there’s massive excitement concerning the upcoming Saturday’s event, which will also include Netball. “We want to reach into the community. We want to make sure that
Soccer Teams Chaneng Primary School Rasimone Primary School Morogong Primary School Kana Primary School Mabitse Primary School Mfidikwe Primary School Tlhotlheletsang Primary School Tlaseng Primary School
we touch each and every child as much as we touch the parents. This is a culmination of a league that has been running throughout all the primary schools. It runs throughout the year. In the process we select the cream of the crop. We select players that are going to be playing as curtain raisers against Stars U13s,” said Thipe. Thipe revealed that Netball will also be part of the activities that will take place on the day. “Back in the day, soccer and netball were on par in school tournaments. We don’t want to detach Netball from soccer. RBS also does netball so there will be netball also. It’s like a mini Sports Festival. The enthusiasm that is out there from RBS staff, Platinum Stars going to the finals is really exciting. Everyone is looking forward to this. It’s quite exciting. We have done a lot of things but this is a new programme that is reaching out to the kids,” said Thipe. On the day, there will be entertainment on and off the pitch. Even Platinum Stars coaches will take to the pitch against their counterparts from RBH and RBS in one of the curtain raisers.
Netball Teams Photshaneng Primary School Kana Primary School Bonwakgogo Primary School Rasimone Primary School Tlaseng Primary School Morogong Primary School Mabitse Primary School Lerutlhwane Primary School
September 2016 October 2016
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Hotel Balalaika reinvented
THE Protea Hotel Balalaika, in the heart of Sandton, has reinvented itself many times since starting out life as a countryside tea room during the 1940s – in the period before Sandton even existed. Over the years the hotel has transformed itself from an upmarket dining and dance restaurant, to the tranquil accommodation oasis it is today. And, despite being located at the very epicentre of South Africa’s economic heartland, with tall corporate office buildings and the Johannesburg Stock Exchange surrounding it, the hotel manages to retain its country feel, its terrace overlooking a tranquil and quiet garden area. Recently the Protea Hotel Balalaika has had all its 330 rooms refurbished and fitted with new luxurious carpeting, curtains, throws, scatter cushions and a splash of new paint to
the walls, creating a refreshed look to the grand establishment that all guests can enjoy. Extensive changes to the Village Manor conference room have in essence created an entirely new venue - new carpeting, the installation of a magnificent fireplace and a more ergonomically pleasing floor plan - elevating the venue to one offering the best modern standards. Danny Bryer, Director of Sales, Marketing and Revenue Management for Protea Hotels, a proud member of Marriott International, the leading global hotel group, is pleased with the outcome of the renovations, commenting, “The hotel owners investment of R30 million into improving this iconic establishment is bound to produce great returns. The renovations elevate the hotel to a truly in-
ternational, and modern, standard.” The refurbishments follow last year’s bold renovations to the building itself which included, improvements to all the public areas, the reception, Lords Bar, six conferencing rooms, and the installation of new door locks, air conditioners and electronic safes in all the rooms. With all of the following improvements completed to The Protea Hotel Balalaika we can truly say that this is the beginning of a new chapter in the establishment’s history. For more information contact Bonny Feldman Senior Account Manager Irvine Bartlett (+27) 21 462-4033 076 495 7167 bonny@irvinebartlett.co.za
September 2016 October 2016
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IRENE COUNTRY LODGE EXPANDS AND REFURBISHES AT ITS LUXURY LAKESIDE PROPERTY
AFRICAN Pride Irene Country Lodge has added a boardroom suite to its list of facilities and, at the same time, completed an elegant refurbishment of its 75 bedrooms and Meadow Green Restaurant. The new boardroom suite is an exceptionally private meeting venue and can seat up to 12 people at the boardroom table that abuts an elegant lounge and opulent bedroom. African Pride Hotels Director of Sales, Marketing & Revenue, Danny Bryer, says this adds to the country lodge’s appeal as an executive retreat, as well as provides an alternative to the hotel’s already extensive conference and events facilities, which can accommodate more than 200 people. All the rooms in the tranquil hotel in the heart of Pretoria have undergone a soft refurbishment for a lighter, brighter look while maintaining the lodge’s uniquely South African country manor feel. Each has its own bal-
cony with view overlooking the lake. The darker, earthier tones have been replaced by softer, lighter shades in more natural fabrics, which make for a much more modern, yet thoroughly luxurious feel. The ten Luxury King Rooms are situated at the outer edges of the natural Camdeboo Forest with a view to a lush, green meadow. There are eight Superior King Rooms and six Superior Loft Rooms, with their extra high ceilings, more directly inside the forest. African Pride Irene Country Lodge’s Meadow Green Restaurant has been renovated to make them more contemporary, while remaining warm and charming. This public space is supported behind the scenes by an extended kitchen where newly appointed Executive Chef Alison Kiewiet uses her fusion talents to combine African, French and Asian cuisine with a unique local flavour. The Lakeside Bar area and Gazebo
have been updated and slightly converted so that there are little meeting nooks for quick meetings over drinks, and a children’s play area has also been added to the hotel, which attracts much family business over weekends and during events such as weddings and special anniversary parties. Bryer says the extensive refurbishment is in line with the group’s commitment to maintain the highest standards for their discerning GUESTS, who expect only the best when they check into African Pride Hotels. “African Pride Irene Country Lodge has modernised while maintaining its unique country character and it is a credit to the group.” Situated between Midrand and Pretoria in the heart of the country’s economic engine, African Pride Irene Country Lodge is fifteen minutes from the Union Buildings in Pretoria and a half-hour drive from Sandton. It lies opposite the Irene Dairy Farm and is near the Rietvlei Nature Reserve. Both the Irene and Centurion golf courses are close by, and the Southdowns Mall is just around the corner. The rooms had a soft refurb in the 400/500/600 block. The spa also won Best Day Spa 2016 in Spa Luxury Awards and Best Hotel Spa. For more information Contact Samantha Bartlett Senior Account Director Irvine Bartlett (+27) 21 424-5594 083 3177 062 sam@irvinebartlett.co.za
September 2016 October 2016
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Newly renovated Garden Court Polokwane
The Garden Court Polokwane, strategically situated in the heart of Limpopo Province’s capital city, recently completed a renovation project which enhanced the entire property – providing business and leisure guests with more comfort and versatility. In the midst of South Africa’s largest urban centre north of Gauteng, surrounded by lush green lawns and sub-tropical gardens, lies the tranquil Garden Court Polokwane hotel. This sprawling estate offers guests a relaxing base from which to conduct
business, explore the surrounding area, or simply to relax and unwind. “The renovation touched every facet of the hotel, from refurbished bedrooms and new bathrooms with walkin showers, to the refreshed gardens and an enhanced conference centre – all strategically implemented to provide guests with more comfort and convenience. In addition, the hotel now provides more versatility and privacy with the Matsakeng restaurant’s additional outside seating and the Lapologa Lounge’s new
patio area,” says Gert Strydom, General Manager at Garden Court Polokwane. All 180 newly refurbished en-suite rooms offer guests complimentary Wi-Fi with the ground floor rooms opening onto the hotel’s beautiful gardens whilst guests on the first floor can enjoy their morning coffee surrounded by the fresh Limpopo morning air. Business guests will delight in the hotel’s self-service workstations which enable access to email, copy
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delights business and leisure guests and fax facilities, ideal for catching up on work commitments. Furthermore, the hotels’ new modernised conference space comfortably accommodates 120 people, and can be reconfigured into two separate venues for intimate meetings, workshops or training sessions. “The old conference venues were completely demolished, and we now have a state-of-the-art conference facility. Additionally, our experienced event management team is always on
hand to create tailor-made conference experiences,” concluded Mr Strydom. Besides making the business side of things so easy, guests can enjoy a host of leisure activities available in and around Polokwane. Both the Savannah Mall, and Limpopo’s biggest mall – the Mall of the North - offer a huge variety of shops, dining and entertainment, whilst famous attractions like Magoebaskloof Rainforest, the Polokwane Game Reserve, the
Bakone Malapa cultural museum, the Debengeni Falls, and the Zebediela citrus estate provide a never ending list of must see attractions. Additionally, the hotel has become a firm favourite for guests visiting the northern part of the Kruger National Park. The Garden Court Polokwane’s convenient location and tranquil atmosphere certainly makes it the number one choice for business and leisure travellers in Polokwane.
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September
2017 WesBank South African Car of the Year Finalists announced JMC Landwind making inroads
Woodmead, Johannesburg – The South African Guild of Motoring Journalists (SAGMJ) is proud to announce the finalist vehicle ranges for the 2017 WesBank South African Car of the Year (COTY) competition.
nity to reacquaint themselves with the vehicles on specific aspects including aesthetics, build quality, ergonomics, fuel consumption, environmental friendliness, safety features and value for money.
The Jury will also have access to performance test data, comparative pricing and specification data, as well as comparative parts pricing data, compiled by the Guild’s digital partner, MAPO. While all of the vehicles that are participating in the event represent examples of outstanding automotive engineering, there can be only one winner. After careful deliberation by the COTY Jury, the vehicle range that best represents automotive excellence when compared to its segment peers, The finalists for the 2017 WesBank South African will be crowned the 2017 WesBank South African Car of the Year competition, South Africa’s pre- Car of the Year. mier motoring event, are (in alphabetical order): The winner will be revealed at a gala banquet on 15 March 2017. • AUDI A4 SEDAN • HONDA CIVIC The South African Guild of Motoring Journalists • HYUNDAI TUCSON has run the SA Car of the Year competition since • JAGUAR F-PACE 1986, with WesBank – one of South Africa’s larg• MAZDA CX-3 est vehicle finance institutions – as its headline • OPEL ASTRA sponsor since inception. AutoTrader, Hollard In• RENAULT KADJAR surance and MAPO supply support sponsorship. • TOYOTA FORTUNER • VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT • VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN Announced during an interactive reveal event at The Country Club Johannesburg, Woodmead, hosted by WesBank, the competition’s headline sponsor, and the South African Guild of Motoring Journalists (SAGMJ), the finalist reveal follows a vote cast by a 28-member Jury, elected by their peers, of an original list of 35 eligible vehicle ranges.
The competition now moves into high gear as preparations are made for two days of stringent evaluations at the beginning of February 2017. At these evaluation days – the most critical of which will be the scheduled procedures at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit – the COTY Jury will assess the cars independently, with routes and modules designed to test the vehicles in a similar way in which the average consumer would use them. The evaluation days offer the Jury the opportu-
THE popularity of SUV vehicles in South Africa remains on the upward climb and if consumers are confused which SUV to buy given all the models to choose from, perhaps the new JMC Lanwind 5 will help ease the blues. To say the Landwind 5 is impressive is most probably an understatement; the shiny, well-built car offers so much value for money. It comes with most comfort and safety features a consumer wants from a car, more so in this category perceived to be luxurious. These standard features, all in good standing, include air-con, power steering, central locking, a radio with MP3 and aux port, plus single disc CD, electric windows and side mirrors, rain wipers with intermittent setting and roof rack rails. Safety features include dual airbags, ABS with EBD, park distance control, high-mounted LED brake light and child-safety rear door locks. Normally all this will cost a fortune, but for just R249 880 if you really want an SUV that works and no further frills, the Landwind is the car for you. Tried and tested reliability is what sits under the bonnet: a Mitsubishi 4G63S4T inline, four-cylinder engine. This engine powered the Mitsubishi Evolution model when it came out but for the Landwind 5, it has additional oomph in the form a Borg Warner turbocharger for figures of140kW/250Nm. Credibility is clearly what drove JMC technicians when building this SUV as further technical assistance was sought elsewhere to help develop the Landwind 5. These include Prodrive, a British motorsport and engineering group,which helped with the suspension, while Delphi, also a British automative company, did the electronics. German-based Getrag was roped to handle the gearbox department. The Landwind 5 is also not build for speed but if the user needs that, take off from 0-100km/h time in 11 seconds clearly makes this SUV no slouch. The fuel consumption is also decent at this level, at 8.5 litres/100km. Overall assessment is that the Landwind, also nicknamed the Landwind 5, will simply blow you away in all fronts – given its price for the technology involved.
September 2016
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Renault Duster SUV MY16 ready to rock SA this summer!
Advanced features and fitments deliver tangible, value-add enhancements • In excess of 10 000 unit sales in three years • At 4.8 litres/100kms, 1.5dCi turbo diesel engine powering Dynamique variants delivers optimum fuel efficiency • Tangible enhancements include NEW streamlined centre console, seat fabric, headlights and tail lamps • Rear parking camera a NEW and first-rate addition to Dynamic variants • Cruise control standard across the range; 7” MediaNav® touch screen and optional leather (Dynamique models) • Added value at NO additional cost, Duster MY16 range remains priced from just R239 900! Anyone and everyone in the market for an SUV offering a host of valueadds and with an affordable price tag to boot, will be impressed with the tangible advancements and enhancements made to Renault’s popular Duster model. Renault Duster
SUV MY16 has arrived and is ready to rock South African roads this summer. Renault Duster’s success is a global tale and with Duster driving sales in excess of 10 000 units since its September 2013 launch in SA, Duster MY16 is writing the next chapter. The first Renault model designed to meet stringent European standards - yet be capable of conquering international markets where usage and road conditions are considerably more rugged - three years down the track, Duster continues to be a formidable contender in South Africa’s B-SUV segment. PRODUCT TWEAKS INSIDE & OUT = TANGIBLE ENHANCEMENTS While Duster MY16 model variants remain the same, exciting new product enhancements give each a fresh new look and feel. Petrol Diesel Duster 1.6 77kW Expression 4x2 Duster 1.5 80kW dCi Dynamique 4x2 Duster 1.6 77kW Dynamique 4x2 Duster 1.5 80kW dCi Dynamique
4x4 • Trendy new black alloys • Ultra-modernised front headlamps and rear tail lights • Rear camera standard on Dynamique models • Electric rear windows now standard on Expression models • Drive away lock standard on all variants • New streamlined centre console • Refreshed fabric on inner seat segments and door panels underscores modern interior look and feel • Additional colour choices KEY FEATURES • 7” MediaNav® touchscreen on-board navigation (Dynamique variants only) • Cruise control standard on all variants • Dynamique 4x4 comes with three transmission modes • Leather optional on all three Dynamique derivatives: the petrolpowered 1.6 4x2 and the 1.5 4x2 and 4x4 diesel derivatives • Rear camera standard on Dynamique models The perfect fit for South African roads, Renault Duster MY16 is equally at home on highways, in cities and suburbs as it is off the beaten track and presses all the right buttons for a drivers with diverse demands behind the wheel. A traditional SUV, the versatile Duster MY16 is tough, unpretentious and designed to unlock the adventurer in all of us. Rugged and reliable, Duster is just the ticket to take the family almost anywhere.
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2017 Trailblazer - More Refined and Safer Than Before • New 2.5 LT Auto and 2.8 LTZ Z71 4x4 Auto Models • Class-Leading technology and connectivity including Chevrolet’s MyLink infotainment system • Advanced safety features including Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert, Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert 26 September - Chevrolet has come out swinging in the seven-seater SUV market once again, with a revised Trailblazer line-up that represents even better value for money and gives buyers more options in terms of drivetrains and specification. The 2017 model year range now comprises five manual and automatic versions of the rear-wheel-drive 2.5-litre LT, rear and four-wheeldrive auto and manual versions of the 2.8 LTZ and a new flagship in the shape of the Z71, which is based on the LTZ 4x4. The price band is from R464 000 to R623 200 for the Z71, which pays homage to Chevrolet’s rich ‘Zee’ car performance heritage. “The new Trailblazer brings together superior levels of refinement, styling, comfort and technology with class-leading performance and drivability to meet the versatile needs of increasingly discerning customers,” said Brian Olson, vice president vehicles sales, service and marketing General Motors Sub-Saharan Africa. Highlights • New 2.5-litre LT model fitted
with six-speed automatic transmission. Upgraded Duramax engine for this auto model rated at a class-leading 132kW and 440Nm. • Improved management of noise, vibration harshness reduces cabin noise by more than half (four decibels). • Driver aids such as lane departure warning and blind spot alert for LTZ trim level models. • Bolder nose with new bonnet and headlights and redesigned lower valance, while retaining the distinctive horizontal bar separating the updated upper and lower grilles. • Next generation MyLink 2.0 multimedia interface, fully compatible with both Apple Carplay and Android Auto. • Daytime running lights (LED on the LTZ) for heightened visibility. • New LTZ Z71 flagship gets ‘blacked-out’ wheels, door handles and mirrors along with a unique decal treatment for a distinctive visual persona. Revised drivetrains
Chevrolet Trailblazer buyers can now opt for an uprated 2.5-litre turbodiesel engine (VGT - Variable Geometry Turbo) with a six-speed automatic transmission in the LT trim level. This 132kW/440Nm combination is unique to models equipped with automatic transmissions and gives it impressive punch exactly where it is needed, irrespective of load. Combined fuel consumption for the 2.5L Automatic models is rated at 8.6 l/100 km with 226 g/km of CO2 emissions. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes 11.0 seconds with a top speed limited to 180 km/h. A ‘gradient braking’ function assists drivers with maintaining speed on difficult down hills - an especially useful safety benefit when towing. A fast-acting limited slip differential is ideal in this regard too (and also when driving on low traction surfaces), and remains a feature of all models. The familiar 2.5L Duramax four-cylinder turbo-diesel (FGT - Fixed Geometry Turbo) engine continues to do duty in the 2.5 LT when matched with the six speed manual transmission. Power is rated at 120 kW, with 380 Nm of torque. Combined fuel consumption is 7.6 l/100 km, CO2 198 g/km. Acceleration form 0 to 100 km/h takes 11.8 seconds with a top speed limited to 180 km/h.
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Ellis aims high with Banyana BANYANA Banyana interim coach Desiree Ellis has admitted to being nervous when she took charge of her first training session of the South African Senior Women’s National Team since she was appointed to the position last week. Banyana Banyana had their first training session under Ellis earlier this week (Monday, October 17) The squad is in camp to prepare for the international friendly match against Egypt, which will be played on Saturday, October 22 at Dobsonville Stadium. Kickoff is at 3pm. Ellis, who is being assisted by Maud Khumalo and Cheryl Botes, worked for two and half years as an assistant to former Banyana Banyana head coach Vera Pauw. “I was a bit nervous but the players were looking forward to it and I was pleasantly surprised by the attitude, by the level of fitness because they were professional enough to continue with their training as we all know the 2016 African Women Cup of Nations is coming up, and that gave us a base to work from as the technical team,” said Ellis. She has made a few changes to the team but also kept the some of those who went 2016 Rio Olympics. Bontle Mashilo (TUT-Pretoria), Lebogang Rakhuduwe (TUT-Pretoria) and Astrid Boks (Santos FC) are the only new comers into the squad. “Basically, we tried to freshen the
squad a bit. We looked at the Varsity Cup that has been going on, and some other tournaments, and we felt the need to bring the new players in. As for the players that have been there before but did not go to Rio we also thought we should give them another opportunity and also assess how they have been doing. Unfortunately the overseas-based players are not available,” added Ellis. “But the door is definitely not closed to anyone – those who did not make it this time and still aspire to play for the national team they will get their chance.” The former Banyana Banyana captain admits her first match in charge will not be easy but they will do the best they can. “We know it will not be easy against Egypt because they qualified for the 2016 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations after beating Ivory Coast at home and lost 2-1 away - but went through on the away goal rule, so we can’t take them lightly. We want to do well and get off on a positive start. The
challenge in the past has been lack of goals and we are working to get it right hence we brought many attacking players. It is always good to start with a win, and hopefully we will achieve that,” said Ellis. Amanda Dlamini and Legato Madiba have been withdrawn from the squad for the clash against Egypt. Dlamini has been away on other commitments (she went to France with the DANONE Under-12 squad and only returned on Tuesday, October 18), while Madiba is out with an injury. Amogelang Motau, captain of the South African U-20 Women’s National Team, has been brought in as Dlamini’s replacement while Nomathemba Ntsibande has taken the place of Madiba.
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Downs are one step closer to CAF glory hind them? He continued: “Both centre-backs are very slow and Khama Billiat, Pecy Tau, Keagan Dolly and Anthony Laffor are all very quick, so it will be a very interesting contest. “We are not going there to defend. We are going there to play our game. It will be nice to win the Champions League having beaten Zamalek four times in the same competition because that will really stamp our authority and gain respect for not only Sundowns, but for South African football in general. Soumahoro Bangaly is set to fill in for the suspended Arendse as the club set their sights on a first continental crown.
MANQOBA Mngqithi has revealed that Wayne Arendse’s absence comes as a bitter blow to Sundowns as they eye African glory The 31-year-old will miss the 2016 Caf Champions League semifinal second-leg due to suspension, with the defender having picked up a caution in Mamelodi Sundowns’ 3-0 win over Zamalek at the Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville on Saturday. Boasting such a commanding lead could come as a burden to Sundowns with the Tshwane club better when playing on the front foot. As a result, ‘Downs assistant coach Manqoba Mngqithi has stated that the club will not sit back in Egypt on Sunday evening.
The former Golden Arrows coach also identified a huge kink in the White Knights armor, which the Brazilians intend to exploit at the El Borg Arab Stadium. “History tells us that whenever Sundowns go into a game with the mentality to defend we normally lose the game,” Mngqithi said on ANN7. “But, when we go and put our first foot forward we know what Sundowns are capable of. “It will also be very interesting to see what Zamalek will do with their two centre-backs; [Eslam] Gamal and Ali Gabr when they want to come at us. For them to score three goals they will have to come out and put a lot of pressure in our half and have numerical superiority there, the question is what will they do with the space be-
Mngqithi admits that Arende’s absence will be felt with the coach describing the former Santos man as the club’s most important defender, but all considered - the 45-yearold remains confident that whoever comes in will be able to do the job on the day. “Wayne Arendse’s story is one that should go to the record books, at some point he would be a player that was hardly on the bench for Sundowns,” Mngqithi added. “But I can tell you now that the coach and the whole technical team are a bit worried because he has become our most important defender and when you lose that type of leader in the team you know that the chemistry will not be a hundred per cent. “But, we still trust the ammunition that the team has, but nobody will replace Wayne Arendse but we believe that because he will be with us in spirit, maybe that spirit will also add a little bit on the field of play,” he concluded.-www.safa.net
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