Sports f ed 59

SPORTS

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ISSUE # 59

DECEMBER 2014 a Lenaka Media Publication 0 1 0 1 0>

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GO AND GRAB IT ... Bafana Bafana going for CAF glory ROSES DETHRONE PALACE Page 2

WANT TO SEE MORE OF THABITHA? Page 5

PROTEIN POWER FOR ATHLETES Page 14

Page 3 MEYIWA VYING FOR CAF AWARD Page 23

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in the hot seat as Bafana coach.

Mashaba showed bravery when he first did away with most of the regular players before he could replace them with young blood who did not disappoint and went on to qualify for Africa Cup of Nations for the first time in recent years. Big up Mashaba, and we look forward to you and the team as they participate in the competition next month in Equatorial Guinea.

We also take this moment to congratulate Portia “Bashin” Modise for making a strong comeback to football, securing herself her 100th goal after more than 100 games. As if that was not enough, the Soweto lads went on to win the SA Star Sports Award of the Year

that saw her too home a brand new BMW plus an incentive of a cool R1m which saw her took R500 000 for herself while the other half went to the charity organization of her choice.

Still on football, we say big up to Kaizer Chiefs who are on top of their football at the current moment. The mighty Amakhosi are still to be beaten in 16 matches.

We a l s o c o n g r a t u l a t e t h e Springboks for topping the HSBC Sevens World Series points table after their recent 26-17 victory over New Zealand in a pulsating final of the Cell C Nelson Mandela Bay Sevens. This victory has put them in a good chance to complete.

EDITOR’S CORNER

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Nakampe Lekwadu

IT is that time of the year when most of us take some long trips to our roots to spend some quality time with our families.

2014 was a great year, although we the sports fraternity suffered a lot of pain after the untimely passing away of Bafana Bafana and Orlando Pirates captain, Senzo Meyiwa and former 800m international athlete, Mbulaeni Mulaudzi. These youngsters were great athletes this country has ever produced and may their Souls Rest in Peace.

On the other hand we rejoice with Ephraim “Shakes” Mashabe who completely took Bafana Bafana to the new great heights shortly after his appointment as the replacement for Gordon Igesund

Dec 2014

- nakampe@sports-focus.co.za 071 562 1847

EDITOR: Mothibi Mthethwa

- eric@lenakacom.co.za 082 703 6822

GRAPHIC & LAYOUT DESIGNER: Esmond Msimango ASSISTANT LAYOUT DESIGNER: Bongiwe Manyisa REPORTERS: Amogelang Ramela amogelang@sports-focus.co.za Precious Rajane precious.rajane@sports-focus.co.za Busisiwe Mokwena PHOTOGRAPHERS: Lucky Zitha lucky@sports-focus.co.za

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ROSES ARE SASOL LEAGUE CHAMPIONS CAPE Town Roses were crowned 2014 Sasol League National champions on Sunday, 14 December 2014 at the Isaac Wolfson stadium in Port Elizabeth.

Roses beat three times champions, Palace Super Falcons 2-1 to clinch the title for the first time. The team from Cape Town put on an impressive display on the day.

A second half brace by former Banyana Banyana player, Nocawe Skiti handed Roses the trophy, while second half substitution, Gugu Gabuza got the goal for Falcons.

Both teams had not lost in any of their matches leading to the final.

Cape Town Roses were going with the wind direction in the first stanza, giving them an advantage in their attacking. They got their first shot at goal in the 2nd minute of the game.

Falcons retaliated five minutes later, but Chatelle Esau's on target shot hit the cross-bar in the 8th minute. A minute later, Roses keeper, Nthabiseng Masute made a great save from Martha Mokoma's close range shot.

Roses got another chance at opening the scoring in the 43rd minute, but Falcons keeper, Morwane Molale was alert to handle Thembeka Magxidolo's shot, taking the

score locked at 0-0 going into the half time break.

With the wind subsiding a bit in the second half, Falcons were looking to get their goals as they were in the advantage of attacking in the direction of the wind, but Roses were the first to open the scoring.

Nothando Vilakazi missed a chance to level the score in the 59th minute.

Roses came close to extending their lead in the 61st minute, but Nandipha Booi's effort was saved by the Falcons keeper.

Falcons were again caught on the counter in the 71st

The Falcons defenders were caught on the counter in the 50 t h minute. Tournament leading goal scorer, Nocawe Skiti made no mistake as she slotted past the Falcons keeper.

With the pressure mounting on Falcons, Captain

minute. Skiti beat the Falcons defenders with pace, looping the ball over the keeper in her final pass, making it 2 – 0.

Gabuza slotted one in for Falcons in the 86th minute as they pushed forward to catchup, but Roses stood their ground.

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Dec 2014

BAFANA BAFANA GOING FOR CAF’S AFCON GLORY

By NAKAMPE LEKWADU B A FA N A B a f a n a ' s r e a l character will be tested when the Shakes Mashaba's highridding charges takes on the

tough sides in the likes of Ghana and Senegal in the forthcoming 2015 Orange Africa Cup of Nations scheduled for January and February in Equatorial Gunea.

Bafana have been on top of the game since Mashaba took o v e r t h e coaching reins from Gordon Igesund, and the team surprised their critics when they finished the tough qualifying phase on top of Group A with 12 points where they were pitted a g a i n s t d e f e n d i n g champions, Nigeria, Congo and Sudan and it remain to be seen if they could translate their high-riding in the finals of this

competition come January.

Apart from Ghana and Senegal, other countries which were pitted against South Africa at the draw that was conducted recently in the capital city of Equatorial Guinea' Sipopo Convention Centre in Malabo include Algeria.

The tournament next year was supposed to be hosted by Morocco but they withdrew their rights to hosts, citing the Ebola threat as their reason

not to host the event.

Equatorial Guinea where then chosen to host the competition and they were since drawn in Group A against Burkina Faso, Gabon and Congo. Zambia have been drawn in Group B against Tunisia, Cape Verde and DR Congo with Ivory Coast taking on Mali, Cameroon and Guinea The tournament will start on January 17 with the final match taking place on February 8.

NIKE CELEBRATES NEW BAFANA BAFANA KIT AND DAWN OF NEW SA FOOTBALL SA national football team Coach Shakes Mashaba and footballers Mandla Masango a n d R e n e i l w e ( Ye y e ) Letsholonyane celebrate the launch of NIKE's new football team kit during an event with young aspiring footballers at the Nike Football Training Centre in Soweto.

As SAFA has breathed new life into the national team as undefeated in the qualifiers, Nike enabled a spirit of national pride to the crest with the fresh new look to the national team kits.

“We are proud of our new national team kit. It's simple

yet striking design will inspire the team to push hard on pitch.

The boys are looking forward to doing South Africa proud in their upcoming games,” said Bafana Bafana coach, Ephraim “Shakes” Mashaba.

“The new kit makes me proud to be part of the team, the

design is impactful. Now that I have my green and gold armour I'm ready for AFCON 2015,” says Bafana Bafana midfielder, Reneilwe (Yeye) Letsholonyane.

The new national team kit enables the team to shine through with Nike's fresh design and innovation. The laser cut ventilation keeps the athlete cool while he is performing at high levels of pressure, while the design of the jersey seeks to provide less distraction for him so he can deliver phenomenal football on pitch.

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Babe

I am an ambitious person who strive and make sure that I get what I want, my dream is to become Miss South Africa very soon. I’m beauty with confidence and currently groomed by TJ Model Agency.

Name: Thabitha Surname: Masemola Birth date: 10 Dec 1995 Birth place: Ga-Masemola, Limpopo Matric: Summers College Favourite Music: RnB Favourite Dish: Chicken Strip & Rice Favourite Soccer Club: Kaiser Chiefs Hobbies: Dancing and SInging

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Dec 2014

PROTEIN POWER FOR CORNELIA JOUBERT SA Marathon Champion Cornelia Joubert (Nedbank Running Club) defended her title to take gold in the Women's 21,1km at the SA Pork Kwai Challenge in May. She has described her success as a result of eating a lot of pork meat which gives her much needed proteins.

protein: Ÿ2 to 3 ounces of cooked lean meat, poultry, or fish (a portion about the size of a deck of playing cards) Ÿ1/2 cup of cooked dried beans Ÿ1 egg, 2 tablespoons of peanut butter, or 1 ounce of cheese

Joubert (25) shaved a second off her 2013 winning time, finishing in 1:19:31. “It was a great race and it helped being familiar with the route” she said.

She was followed minutes later

by Ethiopian athletes Alem Tsehay Kakisa and Adanach Temilu, both from Nedbank.

Children and teens may need different amounts, depending on their age. Some healthy sources of meat protein include: ŸTurkey or chicken with the skin removed, or bison (also called buffalo meat) ŸLean cuts of beef or pork, such as round, top sirloin, or tenderloin (trim away any visible fat) ŸFish or shellfish

Protein in diet Proteins are the building blocks of life. Every cell in the human body contains protein. The basic structure of protein is a chain of amino acids.

You need protein in your diet to help your body repair cells and make new ones. Protein is also important for growth and development in children, teens, and pregnant women.

Food Sources Protein foods are broken down into parts called amino acids during digestion. The human body needs a number of amino acids in large enough amounts to maintain good health.

Amino acids are found in animal sources such as meats, milk, fish, and eggs. They are also found in plant sources such as soy, beans, legumes, nut butters, and some grains (such as wheat germ and quinoa). You do not need to eat animal products to get all the protein you need in your diet.

Amino acids are classified into three groups: ŸEssential ŸNonessential ŸConditional

Other good sources of protein include: ŸPinto beans, black beans, kidney beans, lentils, split peas, or garbanzo beans ŸNuts and seeds, including almonds, hazelnuts, mixed nuts, peanuts, peanut butter, sunflower seeds, or walnuts (just watch how much you eat, because nuts are high in fat) ŸTofu, tempeh, and other soy protein products ŸLow-fat dairy products

enough protein. Healthy people rarely need protein supplements.

Vegetarians are able to get enough essential amino by eating a variety of plant proteins.

The amount of recommended daily protein depends upon your age and health. Two to three servings of protein-rich foods will meet the daily needs of most adults.

The following are the Essential amino acids cannot Recommendations A well-balanced diet provides recommended serving sizes for be made by the body, and must be supplied by food. They do not need to be eaten at one meal. The balance over the whole day is more important.

Nonessential amino acids are made by the body from essential amino acids or in the normal breakdown of proteins.

Conditional amino acids are needed in times of illness and stress.

Do not eat more than four eggs per week. Eggs are very high in cholesterol. Try recipes that use egg whites only.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's newest food guide, called MyPlate, can help you make healthy eating choices.

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Dec 2014

10 OUT OF 10 FOR HYUNDAI i10 people and their luggage.

Folding all or part of the 60/40 split rear seatback takes just seconds. So if life surprises you with unexpected loads or luggage, and you need more space, the i10 will be ready and waiting.

The low loading height makes it easy to load luggage, shopping or whatever you need into the boot area of the i10. There is also a removable parcel shelf to cover your cargo.

Some times you don't need too many words to describe a feelgood experience. In short, here are TEN points why the 2014 Hyundai i10 is such a hot property: HIGHLIGHTS 1.Integrated Bluetooth audio system The integrated Bluetooth audio system of the i10 lets you focus on the road and have both hands on the wheel while making that important phone call.

2. Fuel economy The compact 35 litre tank of the i10 gives you low fuel consumption so you can drive further on less. For example, the 1.25 litre emits just 113 grams/km of CO2 while returning 5.6 litre/100 km combined.

3. Powerful performance Its zippy performance gives you the ability to get out of sticky situations quickly and comfortably take gaps when you need to.

4.USB Mp3 and iPod connectivity The auxiliary audio input jack of the i10 accommodates most music players so you can take your music where you go and always have those favourite road-trip tracks on hand.

EXTERIOR 5. Stylish and practical Not only stylish but infinitely practical, the i10 provides for an aerodynamic drive while its full-length body protection mouldings are in the same attractive colours as the bodywork. Combining personality with functionality, the i10 provides for a great driving experience.

6.New clear headlights/ Rear combination lamps The newly designed clear headlight clusters not only look great, they improve both your night vision and your on road visibility. This adds an sleek and modern look to the vehicle with a practical and safe function.

The rear combination lamps are integrated into the fluidic design of the i10 and ensure that you can be clearly seen by those around you.

7. Mirror indicator repeaters/ Electric Heated Side Mirrors

Extra style with extra safety.

These repeaters make your intention to turn clear, even if other road users cannot see the front or rear lights.

The electric heated side mirrors make life safer in bad weather conditions. For extra elegance, these side mirrors are body coloured. Standard on the Glide and Fluid models.

INTERIOR 8. Unexpectedly Spacious/ Boot space The i10 provides you with enough flexibility for up to five

9. 12-volt Power Outlet Whether it is your GPS or smartphone, the 12v power outlet is there for all your personal electronics to ensure that you are never out of touch.

Just plug and communicate or play 10. Conveniently fun The i10 gives you comfort, convenience, and fun all in one package. From the height adjustable driver's seat and tilting steering wheel, to the centre floor console providing convenient storage space and cup holders as well as the 12v power outlet for your mobile electronics, the i10 offers you everything and more.

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Dec 2014

MIRAGE - SMALL CAR MADE FOR THE BIG PICTURE powered by Mitsubishi's surprisingly sprightly 1.2-litre, 3cylinder DOHC petrol engine.

The impressive power – 57 kW at 6 000 rpm – is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. The 100 Nm of torque peaks at 4 000 rpm.

Featuring MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve-timing Electronic Control), fuel efficiency was the most important engineering attribute during Mirage development. The results speak for themselves – the Mirage is touted as the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid petrol-engined vehicle in the United States.

The et into the new, awardwinning Mirage and experience what a compact car from Mitsubishi can give you: durability, r e l i a b i l i t y, s a f e t y a n d t h e affordability that comes from driving a car that delivers around 700 kilometres of travel off a single 35L tank! It's a small car, but it's made for the big picture.

Mitsubishi Motors enters the popular A-segment for the first time in South Africa with the Mirage, already its tail raised high for a good reason. The Mirage is a winner in every way you look at it.

Already in has won awards, all for ticking all the boxes for this supermini segment – great quality, generous specifications and minimal fuel consumption. To clarify the latter, with fuel consumption of a mere 4.9 litters per 100km, Mitsubishi Mirage's 35-litre tank can take all 700km!

The new Mitsubishi Mirage enters the local market with the full might of the Mitsubishi brand behind it – a badge which signifies exceptional reliability, integrity and practicality from one of Japan's foremost automotive manufacturers, and one which has produced some of the world's most iconic vehicles.

“People know us for tremendous off-roaders and exceptional durability, and we are now set to attract a new demographic to the

Mitsubishi brand with our first ever supermini. We know just how competitive the supermini segment is in South Africa and as such we have ensured that Mirage is aggressively priced to take the fight to more established marques i n t h e s e g m e n t , ” Wy n a n d Pretorius, chief operations officer at Mitsubishi Motors South Africa said in a statement.

“We are launching Mirage with a very competitive R1 899 per month finance proposition which includes 12-months comprehensive insurance, making overall car ownership that much more affordable for younger buyers.”

AFFORDABILITY Mirage indeed takes affordability to the next level. Three brand-new Mirage derivatives make up the new range in South Africa, each of which has been designed to offer different levels of specification with no compromise on powertrain, safety or efficiency.

The funky, fashionable and youthful exterior styling sees a truly distinct design language giving the new Mirage a unique character in its segment. The rounded front end is optimised for aerodynamic efficiency and visual appeal, and makes way for the vehicle's compact proportions.

The upbeat and cheerful paint

colour spectrum available on the new Mirage range comprises a mix of bright and trendy colours which highlight the fun-to-drive element of this new vehicle. From Lemonade Yellow Metallic to Medium Blue Mica and Red Metallic, all hues liven up the already bubbly personality of the new Mirage.

The five-door design also sees strong styling creases on the flanks met by either 14- or 15-inch wheels, and the pert rear end features a sassy design theme and characterful tail light clusters.

Compact proportions – the Mirage is just 3.71 metres long – enhance manoeuvrability, as does the exceptionally tight, class-leading turning radius of just 4.6 metres.

INTERIOR AND ENGINE On the inside, the Mirage boasts an unexpectedly roomy cabin, finished in attractive and durable cloth trim. All models also feature five cup or bottle holders, folding rear seats in a 60:40 split and height adjustment for the driver's seat.

The delightful specification level is perfect for the supermini market – standard features across the range include dual airbags, air conditioning, electric windows, a radio/CD audio system and steering wheel audio controls.

Each of the three derivatives is

AWARDS The Mitsubishi Mirage has won some accolades, and is also shortlist for more more awards in international markets. The car has to date won the: l 2014 Automotive Science Group's "Best All-round Performance" award in North America l 2012-2013 "Car of the Year" award by the Car Awards Group in the Philippines, and an 18 out of 20 rating by Top Gear magazine in the Philippines, who stated the Mirage as being “the sweetest deal in town” for single people or young couples on a budget l one of Forbes Magazine's "12 Greenest Cars of 2014" – one of only two non-hybrid vehicles to make the coveted list.

PRICE l Mirage 1.2 MIVEC GL 5M/T R124 900 (incl. 12 months comprehensive insurance) l Mirage 1.2 MIVEC GLX 5M/T R134 900 (incl. 12 months comprehensive insurance) l Mirage 1.2 MIVEC GLS 5M/T R144 900 (incl. 12 months comprehensive insurance) All new Mitsubishi Mirage models are backed by Mitsubishi's comprehensive 3-year/ 100 000km warranty. Service intervals are set at every 15 000 km, and a 2-year/ 30 000 km service plan is included in the retail price.

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SPORTS

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Dec 2014

NEW CORSA MEANS MORE FUN IN DRIVING Assist (the car will self-steer into a parking place), and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System.

More Gadgets The interior's play things include IntelliLink, a communications system that operates through a 7-inch colour touchscreen and can be controlled via apps such as BringGo (for navigation), Stitcher and TuneIn (for global radio channels and internet podcasts). The system is compatible with both Apple and Android phones, and incorporates additional features, such as voice command, Bluetooth, Siri Eyes Free and FlexDock, an area for locating/charging your mobile phone.

Fun to be on the road has been given a new meaning by the all new Opel Corsa. The favourite getaround car returns with more fun specs to make drive even more pleasurable.

Several modifications to all of the most important chassis components have resulted in a noticeably better driving comfort of the Opel Corsa whilst its agile driving characteristics are not compromised respectively further improved.

The overall length of the new Corsa is identical to the outgoing model as Opel believes owners were most pleased with the model's compact exterior but generously spaced interior.

The design theme is based off the Opel Adam, but with larger proportions to fill. Opel wanted to provide greater definition between the 'sporty' look of the three-door and the 'premium' look of five-door models.

All-New Chassis

A new chassis has been developed for the new Opel Corsa and the car sits 5mm lower than before. This is said to aid stability and roll characteristics whilst lowering the centre of gravity. The front end has been stiffened and new suspension geometry makes for more precise handling whilst not hampering ride comfort.

3-Cylinder Turbo Opel will be joining the threecylinder turbo brigade (Ford and Renault) as its new 1.0litre engine will be available in either 66 kW or 84 kW guise. In both variants torque is 170Nm. Fuel economy tests have not been done yet, but will be available once the car completes the Euro emissions tests.

Opel's 1.4-turbo that does duty in the current Corsa will be tuned purely for fuel efficiency and contain 74 kW with 200 Nm. The diesel entry is a 1.3turbodiesel that has been

improved to meet Euro 6 emission standards.

Gearboxes include a sixspeed manual or a six-speed automatic, no word on a dual clutch setup though.

Self Park The new Opel Corsa has had a thorough update of the interior and gadgetry specification.

Opel say that the VW Polo competitor will feature Hill Start Assist, Automatic Park

Prices Opel Corsa 1.4 Essentia R187 800 Opel Corsa Enjoy R201 300 Include warranty and service plans as follows: 5 years / Unlimited km AntiCorrosion 3 years / 60 000 km Service Plan 5 years / 120 000 km Warranty and Roadside Assistance

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SPORTS

19

Dec 2014

TRANSFORMED SPRINTER CARRIES SHINIER SWORD

Back in 1984 the Sprinter sent the popularity of the Toyota Corolla in South Africa and most of the world to new heights when it was first introduced . Fast forward 30 years on then you get the transformed Sprinter boasting a futuristic look.

In simple terms, the legend lived on when the new generation Toyota Corolla 1.6 Sprinter rolled off the factory floor, looking mean and sharp.

With a new Corolla driving out of a Toyota factory somewhere in the world every 30 seconds of the day, the 2014 Sprinter is taking the Corolla's fight for respect to a new a level.

Already, the sharp designs and features in the exterior and the interior are changing

perceptions about the Corolla.

The new spinter is a four-door sedan available only as petrol engine, with manual transmission. Toyota puts its fuel consumption at 6.6l/100km, the usual generous intake by the 1.6 Corolla.

The Sprinter also comes with a Safety Rating of 5 . according to latest, more stringent Euro NCAP crash test programme.

Pricing The new Toyota Corolla 1.6 Sprinter is selling for R248 900 in South Africa. This goes with the usual peace of mind the Corolla is loved for. These include a three-year/100 000km warranty and comes

with a standard five-year/90 000km service plan. Service intervals are set at 15 000km.

All this is supported by the To y o t a C a r e R o a d s i d e Assistance Programme, which

entitles customers to 24-hour roadside assistance.

Did you say peace of mind?

You got to love the Sprinter all over again!

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Travel

Dec 2014

MORULA SUN, THE LEGEND LIVES ON

The Morula Sun Casino & Hotel is the most iconic facility of its kind in a mostly black area in South Africa. Founded during the height of apartheid in the 1980s, the hotel and casino was the most soughtafter entertainment spot where people of all races freely had fun. A lot has changed in the past 20 years but Morula Sun has managed to retain its role as the meeting place of happy

people.

Situated in Mabopane, north of Pretoria, Morula Sun overlooks the picturesque Nooitgedacht Dam and therefore offering a welcome buffer in the midst of a location which has seen a huge population growth.

Apart from the pleasure of access to a massive water body, the dam also provides birdwatching opportunities and

of meeting for serious business, through its excellent conference and banqueting facilities.

The hotel's 59 suites include a Presidential suite. The rooms have the ease and comfort that Morula is known for, with decor which is pleasing to the eye and relaxing to the soul. Each room, with en-suite bathrooms, overlooks the beautiful Morula gardens and the hotel's sparkling pool.

Other standard amenities are air conditioning, direct dial telephone and satellite TV. Facilities for guests include internet, entertainment room, playground, swimming pool, fishing and tennis courts.

Day visitors have access to some of the facilities but the friendly reception staff will happily clarify.

Morula Sun is located on the well-known Lucas Mangope Highway, and it is accessible from different routes from watersports for those more Pretoria direction. daring. Talking daring, the For more information contact central facility in the resort is Morula on 012-799 0000. the casino, which offers those feeling luck a chance to win from slots machines and table games.

The casino also boasts restaurants which are p o p u l a r m e e t i n g places for friends, or time o u t f o r families. Live music is also occasionally available, including performances b y international artists.

Morula Casino is also a place

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Travel

Dec 2014

RELAXATION HOUSE FOR

By NAKAMPE LEKWADU SOME of the things just never fade; class is indeed permanent. Take the Coach House Hotel & Spa for instance. The facility was opened in 1983 on the site of the original hotel used by travellers in the feverish gold rush days of the late 19th century.

The Coach House, situated in the woodlands of Agatha Forest Reserve in the Tzaneen area, serves the same function of years gone by, though the visitor today is a pleasure seeking traveller who also wants peace of mind and relaxation.

Sports Focus's recent two days stay was a mind refreshing at this establishment situated on the 560 hectares land facing the atop a ridge Africa offering dramatic panoramic views of the Litsitele Valley, and the Moholoholo mountain range view (also known as Drakensberg) in Tzaneen.

Owned by the group of hotels, the Orion, Coach House is internationally known as one of Africa's leading country hotels and this gracious estate offers world-class hospitality and luxurious comfort in one of South Africa's most anquil settings.

This historic country retreat

offers guests old-world service and charm, rejuvenating spa treatments, award-winning cuisine, and its famed on-site nougat factory.

Apart from richness in history, the hotel is also a perfect venue for weddings and conferences.

Countless satisfied guests return time and again to this well-established country hotel, for its magnificent setting, abundant attractions, and consistently superb hospitality.

Warm and friendly staff are on hand to attend to your every need. A superb wine cellar offers an excellent choice of fine wines and our acclaimed and charming Zeederberg

Restaurant offers fine dining with outstanding cuisine. Since it first opened in 1983, the Coach House has gained a reputation both locally and abroad as "one of the finest and friendliest hotels in South Africa.�

The Coach House offers 39 spacious, well-appointed rooms offering every comfort and convenience and each with its own generous en-suite bathroom and separate shower. There are nine suites, 25 premier rooms with extra long king-size, double or three quarter twin beds and five standard single rooms.

All rooms have private verandahs with sweeping

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Travel

Dec 2014

BODY AND SOUL

All rooms have private verandahs with sweeping panoramic mountain views and are fitted with luxurious percale cotton sheets and mohair blankets, heated towel rails, air-conditioning, ceiling fans and personal bathrobes.

Other room facilities include electronic safes, hairdryers, and heaters, mini bars and satellite TV with 18 channels.

The Coach House is renowned for the finest breakfast in the country, which can be enjoyed on the verandah overlooking the pool, which offers spectacular views of the northern Drakensberg Mountains. Feast on a stunning full buffet of fruit, yoghurt, cereals, cold meats, smoked salmon, cheeses, homemade breads and

pastries and many more mouth-watering delights. A variety of delicious cooked breakfasts is available daily.

The sumptuous Sunday buffet lunch is a festive affair with an array of delicious, carefully prepared dishes to please everyone.

The hotel has a spa service, Agatha Spa. Named after the reserve of the hotel's location, the spa adds a different dimension to the whole quest of seeking relieve from stress.

From the ancient Roman hydrotherapy to modern health and wellness techniques, rejuvenation of body and soul is guaranteed!

The Coach house is accessble from two points along the R36, either from Tzaneen town, at Arbour Park, via Letaba main road or from Nkowakowa

direction.

What's nearby?

Hans Merensky Dam Djuma Game Reserve Malamala Game Reserve Kruger National Park Tzaneen Country Club Tzaneen Museum Modjadji Cycad Forest Wegraakbosch Organic Cheese Dairy Hans Merensky Nature Reserve Tzaneen Dam Debengeni Water Falls Wolkberg Mountains

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SPORTS

23

Dec 2014

MEYIWA COULD MAKE HISTORY AT CAF AWARDS The winners, including that of African Player of the Year (based outside the continent), will be decided by votes from the Head Coaches/Technical Directors of National Associations affiliated to CAF. The announcement will be made at a Gala Dinner on Thursday, 8 January 2015 in Lagos, Nigeria.

Last year Egyptian Mohamed Aboutreika took the title for African Player of the Year (based in Africa), while Cote d'Ivoire captain and Manchester City's Yaya Toure was crowned African Player of the Year (based abroad) for the past three years.

Toure has again made the top five for the 2014 award and will be competing against:

Late Bafana Bafana and Orlando Pirates goalkeeper and captain Senzo Meyiwa is the only South African in line for an award from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for 2014.

Meyiwa could become the first player on the continent to get the accolade posthumously.

The goalkeeper was among 20 players nominated in the 2014 CAF African Player of the Year (based in Africa) alongside fellow South Africans Bernard Parker of Kaizer Chiefs and Bongani Ndulula of AmaZulu.

But the late Bafana Bafana captain is now the only South African left and is among the top five after the list was trimmed down by CAF.

He will be competing against the following players: 1. Akram Djahnit (Algeria, E.S. Setif) 2. El Hedi Belamieri (Algeria, E.S. Setif) 3. Fakhreddine Ben Youssef (Tunisia, C.S. Sfaxien) 4. Firmin Mubele Ndombe (D.R Congo, AS Vita) 5. Senzo Robert Meyiwa ( S o u t h A f r i ca , O r l a n d o Pirates) “It is a great honour for any player to be nominated for any award, but for Senzo to be the last South African standing even after he has passed on is an even greater honour.

“As the Football Association we are quite pleased that after such a great year where we

had good returns on the field with all our teams qualifying for major continental competitions, we might start the New Year on a high should Senzo win the award,” said SAFA President Dr Danny Jordaan.

“What is even more exciting is that Senzo could rewrite the history books from the grave by becoming the first player ever to win a CAF award posthumously. We can't ask for a better start to a new year than that and I hope when the announcement is made, his name will be the one called out to lift the trophy. Should he win, I am confident it will spur Bafana Bafana on at the AFCON tournament in Equatorial Guinea.”

Shortlist for the African Player of the Year, the shortlists are (in alphabetical order) 1 . A h m e d M u s a (Nigeria, CSKA Moscow) 2. Asamoah Gyan (Ghana, Al Ain) 3. Pierre – Emerick Aubameyang (Gabon, Borussia Dortmund) 4. Vincent Enyeama (Nigeria, Lille) 5 .

Ya y a To u r e (Cote d'Ivoire, Manchester City)