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ISSUE # 70 MARCH, 2016 a Lenaka Media Publication 0 1 0 1 0>
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NEDBANK CUP FEVER As clubs vie last 16 SAB LEAGUE GROWS BIGGER Page 10
NFD RACE GETS TOUGHER Page 11
TSHOBA, MABONE WIN BESTMED RACE Page 21
Page 3 & 4 EX SAFA OFFICIALS BANNED Page 22
March 2016 WITH almost two months remaining before the Absa Premiership could bring down the curtains for the 2015/16 Season, it looks like Mamelodi Sundowns will be run away league champions. With eight matches to go before the league season comes to an end, the Brazilians (52 points after 22 matches) have open a seven point gap between themselves and second placed BidVest Wits (45 points after 22 matches). Ironically, the league's defending champions Kaizer Chiefs are not anywhere near the league title as
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they have been relegated to the fourth position with 39 points and it is not a secret that their coach, Steve “Mr Oxford Dictionary” Komphela has dismally failed to get the club even a single silverware since he was appointed eight months ago. In the National First Division, it looks like the title race is still wide open that even a club from the fth position can win the league. Baroka FC from Limpopo however they have a slight chance of lifting the honours and go on to earn an automatic promotion to the top ight league.
The latter are currently on top of the summit with 46 points from 22 matches with Witbank Spurs hot on their heels with 44 points from the same number of matches. Highland Park are third with 42 points while Milano United and Royal Eagles are fourth and fth with 41 points each. It remain to be seen as to which club will win the league and gain automatic promotion and as to which two clubs will join the other one from the Absa Premiership which will nish in the 15 t h position for the Promotion/Relegation Play-Offs.
DANONE NATIONS CUP NORTHERN CAPE PROVINCIAL FINALS ABOUT TO KICK-OFF THE Under-12 Danone Nations Cup football provincial nals are about to get under way, and rst up is the Northern Cape. Five regional winners will be in action at the Paballelo Stadium in Upington on Saturday, March 19 kicking off at 10am. The Five schools have come through a round of local cluster matches and regional playoffs and will now be competing for the right to represent the Northern
the provincial nals will be different,” he said. Jenwill Rooi will be their key player, Cloete said. “He is physically strong and always up to the challenge and is never afraid to ask questions if he doesn't understand something.” Dr Isak van Niekerk Primary School is at a slight advantage as they completed in the provincial nals last year and, although they were knocked out they have some
Cape province at the national nals of the competition in Gauteng on June 25. The schools are Leerkrans Intermediate School (ZF Mgcawu district), Van Rensburg Primary School (Pixley Ka Seme district), Vlakfontein Intermediate School (John Taolo district), Dr Isak van Niekerk Primary School (Namakwa district) and Beacon Primary School (Francis Baard district) Leerkrans Intermediate School has been trying to reach the provincial nals for 5 years, and have nally made it. Their coach, Ronnie Cloete believes they are ready for the challenge. “We have not lost a single match so far this year, although I know
experience of the pressure that goes with this level of the competition, said coach Gavin Cloete. He goes on to credit the entire school, parents and the local community who have been fully behind them. His focus this year has been on the accuracy of the players. “We participate in this tournament because we want to bring change into the kids' lives, we want them to be sociable, condent and interact with other kids from all over,” he said. Relatively new on the block is Vlakfontein Intermediate School. According to the coach, Lawrence Senyamore, this is the second time they are playing in the competition and the rst time they
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have qualied for the provincials. He is coaching the team for the rst time, and although he has no coaching experience, he believes his youth and passion is going to take them far. “The school designated me as the coach as I am the youngest teacher at the school (27 years old) and have the energy and enthusiasm to see them through to the next round.” Van Rensburg Primary School is in the provincial nals for the third time. They came close to qualifying for the nationals last year and, according to coach, Jus Marolla, the disappointment at being knocked out in the nal game has led them to work even harder this time. “The key to success is ball possession at all times, using the entire eld and taking your chances,” he said. “Discipline and listening is also important, but I also tell the players that everyone loses. What is important is how you rise above it and continue. A loss doesn't mean the end of the world.” The fth school is Beacon Primary School who will represent the Francis Baard district. The school from Kimberley will be competing in the provincials for the rst time after being knocked out early in t h e c o m p e t i t i o n l a s t y e a r. Manager, Davis, is pleased with how the team performed at the district nals. “We lost our rst game and the boys were crying, but they picked themselves up and we won the next three games to top the log and qualify for the provincials. The boys say they now 'smell the tar' meaning they are getting ready to travel to the nationals.”
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March 2016
MINNOWS IN A TOUGH NEDBANK CUP LAST 16 DRAW CLUBS from the lower division will have to double their effort after they were drawn against the Premiership's high iers in the last 16 of the Nedbank Cup, Writes NAKAMPE LEKWADU. Magesi FC, the only club remaining in this competition from SAFA structures will have to work hard to remain in the competition after they were pitted at home against the Premiership' second positioned side, BidVest Wits. The Limpopo side who are currently on top of the log in their ABC Motsepe League earned their passage through to the last 16 of Ke Yona Cup after a 2-1 victory over fellow SAFA structure side, EC Bees FC from the Eastern Cape. Another Limpopo side, Baroka FC (also on top of the league in the National First Division) will be away to the high riding Golden Arrows in KwaZulu-Natal with Polokwane City also playing
away to Platinum Stars in North West. Another interesting xture in this competition will be the one involving Jomo Cosmos who will at home against Orlando Pirates. Ironically the two sides face each other this Saturday (March 12) in the second round of the league xture at the Orlando Stadium. Cosmos won the
rst round leg 1-0 at the match which they hosted at the Olen Park, Potchefstroom in North West and it remain to be seen as to whether the mighty Buccaneers will manage to avenge that defeat come Saturday before their Nedbank clash at the venue and date still to be conrmed. After their struggled to beat Highlands Park in the last 32 round of the competition, Premiership side, Mamelodi Sundowns were yet again drawn against another NFD side and this time the high riding Mbombela United with.
United's fellow provincial side, Mpumalanga Black Aces have been drawn at home against the struggling Maritzburg United while Santos and SuperSport United were drawn at home against Free State Stars and University of Pretoria respectively.
The conrmed Nedbank Cup's last 16 draw in full: Mpumalanga Black Aces v Maritzburg United Platinum Stars v Polokwane City Santos v Free State Stars Golden Arrows v Baroka FC Mamelodi Sundowns v Mbombela United Magesi FC v BidVest Wits SuperSport Unitd v University of Pretoria Jomo Cosmos v Orlando Pirates
March 2016
MAGESI WARNS WITS NOT TO EXPECT AN EASY LAST 16 NEDBANK CUP MATCH BIDVEST Wits must not expect a walk in the park in Polokwane when they travel to Limpopo for the last 16 round of the Nedbank Cup, Writes NAKAMPE LEKWADU
This was a clear message from Jacky “Mama's Baby” Ledwaba, the coach of ABC Motsepe club, Magesi FC who have been drawn at home against The Clever Boys at the venue and date still to be conrmed. In an exclusive interview with Sports Focus, Ledwaba said have been drawn against the Premiership side in Wits' caliber is bit challenging but they will do their best in this match. “We are excited about the draw because this kind of
matches against the bigger clubs will help us a long way in terms of giving our players the taste of a competitive match level, something we need to boost our performance in our league campaign,” pointed out the once PSL's Golden Boot Award recipient while still playing for AmaZulu. Ledwaba said the fact that they are the host in this match will give more advantage as their needy supporters will not worry about travelling to long distance to come and watch them play in this match as Polokwane where we are likely to host Wits is not really that far. “Our wishes however was to play right at GaMatlala, the village which is our home venue but that dream will not be realized as our stadium there is not up to the standard for this kind of a match,” added Ledwaba. The club captain, Karabo Selaelo said they respect Wits as a big club doing well in the league but that does not mean they are afraid of them “We respect them for who they are, but in the eld of play we will put that respect aside and do what we are paid for. We are equally desperate to win this match and proceed to the last 8 of this competition just like Baroka did in 2011, and
that will also do as good as we will be seen as true ambassadors of our province,” said Selaelo. Magesi (log leagers in the S A FA - L i m p o p o ' s A B C Motsepe League) was established in 2011 after o w n e r, S e l l o M a t h e b u l a bought the status of the once Limpopo's pride club, Peace Lovers before he could relocate the club to Mabokelele village outside Moletji and renamed it Magesi FC. The club plays their home matches at the local stadium at Mathapo village which is in the boundaries between Moletji and Matlala villages outside Polokwane. This is Magesi' second
qualication in the Nedbank Cup, and in their rst time they were knocked out of the competition in the rst round (last 32) by Jomo Cosmos who beat them 2-0.
Name: Nompumelelo Surname: Mnune Birthdate: 1995, March 05 Birthplace: Sebokeng Studies: Matriculated at Qedilizwe and now UJ student Favourite Music: RnB and Soul Favourite Dish: Rice and Mince Favourite Sports: Football Hobbies: Reading, watching TV and modeling Model Agency: Charlin
Nompumelelo says her ambition is to see herself working as an HR manager before she could start her own clothing brand in the future.
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March 2016
SAB TAKES FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT TO THE NEXT LEVEL
THE South African Breweries in close partnership with the South African Football Association successfully hosted the inaugural edition of the SAB League Skills Camp on March 12 at the Durban University of Te c h n o l o g y i n Pietermaritzburg. This groundbreaking grassroots football development initiative by SAB saw 80 players, 20 coaches, 20 match ofcials and 20 club administrators from the SAB League being taken through valuable skills and capacity building training to further develop them in their respective areas. The SAB League Skills Camp has been developed by SAB
to bridge the vast gap between education and professional football, which has over the years resulted in loss of talent both on and off the eld. A total of 140 participants were involved in the one day workshop conducted by highly qualied SAFA instructors such as Steve Coetzee. This was then followed by a practical session on the eld in the form of exhibition matches involving all players, coaches and match ofcials where they were tasked to put to practice what was learnt during the workshops. Speaking at the event SAB's Socio-Economic Specialist, Ntombi Kholwa congratulated all the participants who
attended the workshop, saying that it is a step in the right direction for development within their journey to professional football. "As proud sponsors of the SAB League, we are always looking at nding innovative but most importantly, effective methods of improving our offering to the development of football. We believe that through these SAB League Skills Camps, SAB can play its part in contributing to an even better society through football," said Kholwa. SAFA's Director of Competitions, Balebetse Monnakgotla further added to Ms. Kholwa's sentiments. "Modern sport has proven
that talent alone is never sufcient if not supported by education. Today marks an incredible milestone for South African football where we are embarking on a new and more relevant approach to football development. We salute the efforts of SAB and thank them for their continuous commitment to football development," said Monnakgotla. All 140 participants received a certicate of recognition for their attendance at the SAB League Skills Camp. The Skills Camps will continue across the country with the next camp scheduled to take place in the Northern Cape in April.
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March 2016
NATIONAL FIRST DIVISION RACE INTENSIFIES
THE weekend results did little to change the dynamics in the National First Division, with the race for the title, for chase for top three play-off places, and the quest to avoid the drop, all as closely contested as ever. The entire top ve – Baroka FC (46 points), Witbank Spurs (44), Highlands Park (42), Milano United (41) and Royal Eagles (41) all recorded victories on the weekend, just
ve points separating these clubs with eight rounds of action to go. Down at the other end of the table, the point Mthatha Bucks earned in a 0-0 draw with Santos at the Mthatha Stadium sees the Eastern Cape side out of the relegation zone (18 points), above African Warriors on goal difference after the Free State side lost 2-0 to Milano on Sunday at Athlone.
Vasco da Gama's draw away to Mbombela United, Thanda Royal Zulu's 2-0 defeat at Highlands Park, and FC Cape Town's 1-0 home loss to Royal E a g l e s means that V a s c o , Thanda and FC CT are only one, three and four points respectively
This weekend's xtures: Friday, March 18: Milano United AFC v Black Leopards (Blue Downs Stadium) Saturday, March 19: Witbank Spurs v AmaZulu - Puma Rugby Stadium, Thanda Royal Zulu FC v Mbombela United – (Umhlathuze Sports Complex), African Warriors v FC Cape Town – (Charles Mopeli Stadium), Vasco Da Gama v Mthatha Bucks – (Parow Park), Baroka FC v Santos – (Old Peter Mokaba Stadium) Sunday, March 20: Moroka Swallows v Cape Town All Stars –(Dobsonville Stadium) Royal Eagles v Highlands Park –(Harry Gwala Stadium). Kick-Off for all the matches is at 3.30pm-www.psl.co.za
above the drop zone. Bottom-of-the-table Moroka Swallows are six points adrift of safety after drawing 1-1 away to Black Leopards. Last weekend's results: S u n d a y, M a r c h 1 3 : AmaZulu 0 - 1 Baroka FC - Princess Magogo Stadium, Milano United AFC 2 - 0 African Wa r r i o r s - A t h l o n e Stadium Saturday, March 12: Cape Town All Stars 0 - 1 Witbank Spurs - Athlone Stadium, Black Leopards 1 - 1 Moroka S w a l l o w s Thohoyandou Stadium, FC Cape Town 0 - 1 Royal Eagles - NNK Rugby Stadium, Mbombela United 0 - 0 Va s c o D a G a m a Kanyamazane Stadium, Highlands Park 2 - 0 Thanda Royal Zulu FC Makhul ong Sta di u m a n d Mthatha Bucks 0 - 0 Santos Mthatha Stadium
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March 2016
MUSIC, LAUGHTER AT POLOKWANE EASTER LIMPOPO is gearing up for the 5th Annual Polokwane Easter All White and Gold Garden Picnic event, Writes NAKAMPE LEKWADU. With Mashabela, Salesman and Thabang ER as the hosts, the show this year on March 27 at the Jack Botes Park is promising to be one of the best since its inception four years ago. From the humble beginning since the guru promoter, Tom Sedibe kick started this event in 2011 which was held in Mokopane, it has grown with leaps and bounds as it has been attracting huge crowds. According to the organisres' Daniel Mapheto, this year's event will offer the audience a good music and laughter at the same time. “From the previous experience in this show, we have decided to take a different route during this year's event will also be more like a stand-up comedy show,” said Mapheto.
Mapheto added that they seemed to have overcome their challenge which has been getting DJs and artists. “Getting a good line-up of good different DJs and artists
for a reasonable price has been a challenge as we all know that Easter is a peak season for the DJs and and artists,” pointed out Mapheto Promoters are however having the last laugh this year as they have managed to get a number of the country's best DJs and artists in the likes of DJ Sbu, Heavy K and DJ Tira among them. The other performers include Da Capo, B r a z o Wa A f r i k a , Ishmail Abrahams, Sentle The events start at 12 mid-day and the entrance fee is R150 general access, R350 VIP (Red Cup Marquee) all tickets a v a i l a b l e a t computicket and shoprite. Interested parties can also book a table for 10 people coming with 10 VIP tickets, three (3)
bottles of GH Mumm and a hubbly session plus nger snacks and a secure parking for only R5000.00. For bookings contact: Karabo Q Scotch at 079 408 9217 or email djqcotch@gmail.com
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March 2016
MASSIVE 14 000 AT MARULA FESTIVAL THE immaculate town of Phalaborwa was brought to a stand-still this weekend as South Africa and Limpopo celebrated the last weekend of the Marula Festival which was staged from February 19–28. Festivities kicked into full swing on Friday whereby a pre-party was hosted by Capricorn FM the festival media partners at S-Lounge in N a m a k g a l e To w n s h i p , revellers were given a full township experience with touch of good music by Capricorn FM and locals Dj's such as Complexion, Daniel Terras, Maxwell, Daniel Teras and many more. The Limpopo Marula Festival Half Marathon attracted more than 400 runners in various categories such as 21 km Half Marathon, 10 and 5 km funrun. MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture Thandi Ndalane and LTA CEO Mr. Ndumiso Matlala were amongst the dignitaries who participated in the races. The Jazz and Gospel OpenAir Concert which was the main attraction for the
On the 19th various cultural groups from our ve Provincial Districts will performed for the public from 12H00 until 15H30 at the Wyldevy Park, after the cultural performances the grops then lined-up and were
weekend saw a lled-to-fullcapacity Impala Park Stadium being brought to live with entertainment from the likes of Lira, Zonke, Tshepo Tshola, Judith Sephuma, Sso Ncwane, Dr. Thomas Chauke, Malatjie, Khuthane, Magilo, Foster and Zozo to mention a few.
joined by SANDF Brass Band, Stick Walkers, Mascots, Drum Majorettes and Bickers for the street parade on the streets of Phalabrwa, the convoy then ended at the Impala Park Stadium for the ofcial opening of the festival by the local Mayor of Ba-Phalaborwa Municipality Cllr, Anna Sono.
On the 20th until the morning of the 21st February 2016 staged the Youth Open-Air Concert which among others feature artists like Cassper Nyovest, Ricky Rick, AKA, Heavy K, Durban Nyts, Nathi, Mmatema (SA Idols nalist season 11), Oskido, Karabo (SA Idols season 11 winner), Ab Crazy, Ms Cosmo, Kaleido, Zinhle, Professor, Eddie Crook, Deeper Bus, Thallix, Blinks, X Man, Fiona, Master Pule and many more. Over the years the festival has identied various activities to appeal to the diverse markets, we have a few sporting activities to ensure social cohesion, healthy living and to create economic activities, during the two weeks of the festival we have staged the following sports activities: The Limpopo Marula Half Marathon, Limpopo Marula Golf Challenge, Box and Dine (Boxing). Other activities include the long table whereby
leading chefs created dishes using the Marula fruit, Limpopo Marula Career Expo, Limpopo Marula Educators Seminar and Fun-fair. The festival continues to attract considerable contingent of international delegates annually, this year we hosted dignitaries from Mozambique, Namibia, Cuba, Venezuela and Zimbabwe who have conrmed their attendance. We will also have international media that will be covering the festival, their work will be broadcasted in countries such as Cuba and Latin America. Like the previous festival the 13 cooperatives under Mukumbi Industries will brew 12 000 litres of Marula beverage, which will be consumed by the public during the festival. More than 14 000 people attended both OpenAir Concerts which were staged over two weekends of the festival.
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March 2016
VIGUS BULLDOZES ITS WAY INTO TOUGH BAKKIE MARKET C h i n e s e m o t o r manufacturers are steadily making their presence felt in many international markets, South Africa included. After the introduction of sedan and SUV models made in China, Jiangling Motors Compnay (JMC) has thrown the cat among the pigeons with its Vigus dual-cab. Well, the tough-looking JMC Vigus is no pussycat and the bakkie market is South Africa is not a gathering of pigeons - it is a hard a space to be in if your pick-up vehicle is not up to scratch. The Vigus is available with petrol and diesel engines, rear-drive and 4×4 layouts, and in two specications levels. The fact that it is a low cost bakkie does not make the JMC Vigus a donkey; it is an admirable workhorse with good looks to boot for far less than longer existing players in this market. Petrol models are powered by a Mitsubishi-sourced 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine that produces 100kW at 5250rpm and 201Nm between 25004000rpm. The diesel engine is also a 2.4-litre four-cylinder unit, with peak outputs of 90kW at 3800rpm and 290Nm between 1600-1750rpm. A ve-speed manual is the only available transmission. Combined cycle fuel consumption for the petrol is 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres in 4×2 form and 12.0L/100km
in 4×4, while the diesel uses 9.0L/100km (4×2) and 9.1L/100km (4×4). Size matters too, as the JMC Vigus comes with 5325mm long, and 1828mm wide and 1710mm tall in 4×2 spec and 1905mm wide and 1835mm tall in 4×4 spec. All variants ride on a 3085mm wheelbase. The JMC Vigus comes sufcient basic safety equipment, such as ABS, EBD and two front airbags. The entry-level LX comes standard with 15-inch alloy wheels, front and rear
foglights, rear parking sensors, air conditioning and a CD player with USB input. The SLX trim level adds imitation leather upholstery, a DVD player, multifunction steering wheel and an antiglare rear-view mirror, while 4×4 variants exclusively feature ared wheel arches and side steps. PRICING: Vigus D/C 4X2 LX DIESEL R279 990 Vigus D/C 4X2 SLX DIESEL R309 990
Vigus D/C 4X4 LX DIESEL R345 990 Vigus D/C 4X4 SLX DIESEL R375 990 Vigus D/C 4X2 LX PETROL R249 990 Vigus D/C 4X2 SLX PETROL R279 990 The prices are VAT inclusive and all JMC vehicles are covered by a basic threeyear/100,000km warranty, and also come with free roadside assistance and capped-price servicing for three years.
March 2016
PREPARE TO BE BLOWN AWAY BY JMC LANDWIND 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 p r o b a b l y a n 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 R289 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 4 G6 3 S 4 T i n l i n e , fo u r cylinder engine. This engine powered the Mitsubishi Evolution model when it came out but for the Landwind 5, it has additional oomph in the f o r m a B o r g Wa r n e r turbocharger for ď€ gures of140kW/250Nm. Credibility is clearly what drove JMC technicians when building this SUV as further technical assistance was sought elsewhere to help develop the Landmine 5. These include Prodrive, a British motorsport and engineering group,which helped with the suspension, while Delphi, also a British automative
c o m p a n y, d i d t h e electronics. Germanbased Getrag was roped to handle the gearbox department. The Landwind5 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 n i ckn a me d th e 5 , w i l l simply blow you away in all fronts - given its price for the technology involved. Pricing: Landwind 5 MT 4X2 LUX R289 880 The price include a threeyear/100 000km warranty and a two-year/60 000km service plan.
March 2016
JMC SWB IS WORK AND NO FRILLS LIGHT TRUCK
The JMC SBW 1.6 light truck is here for one thing only: to do work and do it again tomorrow, again and again costing you very little in fuel and maintenance costs. Granted, this segment of commercial trucks has long-time players, many promising additional luxuries as you would encounter in sedans or bakkies but forget any frills from the SBW. From its neat, uncomplicated design geared towards giving the user unhibited opportunity to carry and deliver, the fourcyliner diesel engine of the SBW is ready to gear into action every time work come up. It also has a decent fuel consumption of 8 liters per 100km, from a 63 liter tank, with a performance maximum
speed of 120km/h. Size-wise fewer jobs can be bigger as the SBW comes with the impeccable dimensions: overall length of 4735mm, 1690mm width and 2040mm height. To complete the ne physical presenece is the wheel base of 2490mm, front track 1395mm and rear track of 1375mm. Numbers don't lie as the SBW's ratied total tare mass reaches 1865kg, a hefty load to carry for the unassuming light truck built to help you do you job. The carrying is tted with fully manual rearview mirrors, while other standard safety features, including the hydraulic braking system, are also in place in all three models - SC Standard, SC
Lux and KC Lux. The SC Stndard is not tted with aircon, which is available in the other two models. However, all three models boast adjustable seats and power steering for sheer driving pleasure. All three models are tted with diamond head lamps for better visibility for night-time driving. Last but certainly not least, what would the carrying vehicle be without dropdown sides and the tailgate? The JMC SBW 1.6 Ton has all these and more for your needs from a light truck with rugged construction to do more.
SC SWB Tipper STD R250 880 SC SWB Tipper LUX R258 880 SC SWB 1.6 Ton Dropside STD R221 880 SC SWB 1.6 Ton Dropside LUX R229 880 SC SWB VanBody STD R241 880 SC SWB VanBody STD 2.77 R245 880 SC SWB VanBody LUX R229 880 SC SWB VanBody LUX 2.77 R233 880 KC SWB Dropside LUX R231 880 KC SWB Tipper LUX R260 880
PRICE LIST: SC SWB Chassis STD R207 880
Prices are VAT inclusive, with maintenance warranty of 5 years / 120 000km
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March 2016
VUWA LODGE REMAIN THE LIMPOPO’S BEST GUEST HOUSE WHEN Thomas Ramulifho decided to venture into hospitality industry in 2008, little did he know that one day his establishment, Vuwa Lodge will be rated as one of the best in the country. Ramulifho is still in cloud nine few months after Vuwa Lodge scooped the Lilizela Awards in the 3 Star Guest House catergory. “I never thought such a day where our Guest House could earn this kind of achievement, let alone to be nominated as a provincial candidate for this award,” said Ramulifho during Sports Focus' visit at the Lodge in Polokwane. Conveniently located in Polokwane's busy plush suburb of Flora Park, Vuwa Lodge is close to the popular Savannah Shopping Mall, Flora Medi-Clinic and Body Life Gymnasium, this is where the government and private businesses host their conferences. The Lodge is also conveniently few kilometers from the 2010 FIFA World Cup
venue, Peter Mokaba Stadium and less than 10km away from the Polokwane International Airport and also 10km away from Meropa Casino and Entertainment. Ramulifho said he could not believe it when he was told that his establishment was among the candidates for the provincial Lilizela Awards. “For me it was a surprise because I did not even notice when inspectors once took us by a surprise when they visited us here to inspect the Lodge. We did not even had time to prepare this place so that when they come they could nd it clean because t h e y n e v e r informed us,” added Ramulifho who is a former lecture. Vuwa Lodge went on to win the award in the province in the 3 Star Guest House catergory before they could
go on to scoop the big one at national level. “I am very grateful about this award and it will go a long way in putting us on the map as one of the best establishment in the province and in the country as well. This could not have been possible if it was not through the hard work and the effort by our friendly staffers here,” said the excited Ramulifho. From the humble beginning in 2008 when Ramulifho converted his house into a seven room guest house before he could bought out his neighbours' house which he added to the establishment to 18 rooms in 2009. Today
Vuwa boast of 24 rooms and two conference halls that seat 60 and 80 delegates, with a standby generator for a continuous electricity supply. Other amenities include air conditioning, bathrooms en suite, disabled facilities, laundry services, satellite TV, tea and coffee in rooms, phones in rooms and Internet access. Ramulifho's future plan is to establish another guest house at his home village of Vuwani village in Venda. “I have already bought a huge land there for this purpose and it is just the matter of time before I can realise that dream.
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GAUTENG CHAMP OF CHAMPS HEADING TO TSAKANE THE inaugural Gauteng Champion of Champions football tournament, proudly brought to you by the Gauteng Provincial Government and in association with the Gauteng Gambling Board, will be taking place on March 27 at the Tsakane Stadium, in Tsakane, Ekurhuleni. The tournament, played in a league (round robin) system, will see Mamelodi Sundowns FC, SuperSport United FC and Jomo Cosmos FC battling it out and accumulating points over three 45 minute matches in order to be declared the Gauteng Champion of Champions. The concept for the tournament was borne out of an idea of putting together a unique and exciting football tournament that features a large charitable component as each team will be selecting a charity that they will be adopting and playing for on the day of the tournament. The tournament will be utilising the services of local SMME's where possible and because of this fact the Gauteng Provincial Government sees a perfect synergy with the tournament as it enables it to showcase three of its radical transformation pillars, namely, Radical Economic Transformation, Accelerated Social Transformation and ReIndustrialisation of the Gauteng Province. “The Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation recognizes the opportunities and valuable platform created by initiatives such as the Gauteng Champion of
Champions tournament. We intend on achieving various objectives though such projects including positioning the tournament as a conduit for the Gauteng City Region programme for Township Economy Revitilisation by taking premium football to the
people and staging an event that will stimulate local economic development, social cohesion and generate income for local businesses. We will continue to partner with ventures that offer a conducive environment for the Gauteng City Region to
remain the Home of Champions and the preferred home for hosting sport at a competitive level.” said MEC, Faith Mazibuko for Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation. As tournament patron, Lucas Radebe, had the following to say: “Charity has always been close to my heart and what better way to honour the chosen charities than by combining them with my other passion, football. The Gauteng Champion of Champions is all about Champions. Champion teams vying for the title of Champion of Champions, in Gauteng, 'the Home of Champions' and with the tournament being broadcast on SuperSport, 'the World of Champions'.” There will be a festive atmosphere on the day with plenty of pre-match entertainment that will include, amongst others, a curtain raiser between local Ekurhuleni favourites African All Stars FC and Valencia FC, DJ Cleo and Skhumba. Gates open at 12.00 and the rst match will start at 3pm. The rst 1,000 spectators through the gates will each receive a free give-away. Tickets will go on sale through Computicket's website and their Shoprite and Checkers and USave outlets from March 11. Ticket prices are: R30 per person for Grandstand seating, R20 per adult for Grass Embankment seating and R10 per child for Grass Embankment seating
ADVERTORIAL
ATHLETES TSHOBA AND MABONE WINS BESTMED TUKSRACE Before the sun rose, over 12,000 people gathered at the University of Pretoria eld to participate in the biggest road running event in the Gauteng, the Bestmed TuksRace. Winners of the 21.1km Open M e n ' s r a c e a r e Vu y i s i l e Tshoba (Rockies) in a time of 67:50 in rst place, followed by Jeffrey Gwebu (KPMG) in a time of 68:04 and Collen Mulaudzi (TUT) in a time of 68:29 in third place. Liziwe Mabone (AMPA) came in rst in the 21.1km Open Women's race in a time of 82:19 with Samukeliso Moyo (Maxed Elite) coming in second in a time of 88:31, and Caroline Wostman (KPMG) in a time of 90:30 in third place. Kgosi Tsosane (Nedbank) took the day in the 10km Open Men's race in a time of 30:22 followed by Kwanele Mthembu (Prestige) in a time of 31:17 and in third place, Collen Mailola (Nedbank) in a time of 31:22. Tsosane commented on his win, “After struggling with minor injuries for two years, my hard training has paid off and I'm happy to win the 10km race. This is all part of my
training to quality for the Olympics, and I will also be taking part in the Senior Track and Field Championship in May this year.” Irvette van Zyl (Nedbank) came in with a timing of 33.55 in the 10km Open Women's race, beating last year's winner, Rutendo Nyahora (Nedbank) who came in second this year in a time of 34:56. In third place was Glenrose Xaba (Eskom) in a time of 35:54.
Professor Gloudien Spies, Chairperson of Tuks Marathon Clubs, said, “We were delighted with the record turnout this year, especially families who participated in the 5km and 1km race. It was great to see the joy and enthusiasm early this morning at participants set out. Although the race attracts the elite athletes, we also encourage families, social and fun runners and walkers to participate.” Mr Gert Oosthuizen, Deputy Minister of Sport said at the prize giving ceremony, “Our mission is to create a winning nation and sport has a language that transcends all barriers. It is very exciting to see the growth of the Bestmed TuksRace over the last 6 years and see how this partnership has gone a long way to promote a healthy lifestyle for all.” “Bestmed and UP acknowledge the sponsors, which include Audi Hateld,
Automotive Investment Holdings, Ford Hateld, Iemas, 4D Health, Mediscor, and Run a way Sports. Their involvement has enabled this race to become one of South Africa's most sought after and premier road running events, and we look forward to an even better race next year,” concludes Dries La Grange, CEO of Bestmed.
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March 2016
SAFA WELCOMES BAN ON FORMER OFFICIALS THE South African Football Association (SAFA) welcomes sanctions imposed on former football ofcials regarding the international friendly matches played by the South African Men's Senior National Team (Bafana Bafana) ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The investigation, initiated on November 2014 against SAFA ofcials, was conducted by Dr Cornel Borbely who is the chair of the Investigatory Chamber of the Ethics Committee, in collaboration with the FIFA Security Division. In this case, former head of referees Lindile 'Ace' Kika was banned from all footballrelated activities for six years and former SAFA CEO Leslie Sedibe was found to have infringed rules related to disclosure, cooperation and reporting of the FIFA Code of
Ethics. Sedibe has been banned for ve years from all football-related activities and also received a ne of CHF 20 000. Furthermore, former SAFA employees Adeel Carelse and
Steve Goddard were both also found guilty and each received a ban of two years. “We are glad this matter has ultimately reached this stage since SAFA reported the matter to FIFA almost 4 years
ago. It had dragged on too long for our liking and was starting to have an impact on us as an Association and our valued stakeholders. “At SAFA we have a zerotolerance policy for any corrupt activity which impacts negatively on this beautiful game and for that reason we welcome strong measures against any individual who is found guilty of such offenses. This should serve as a warning to anyone harbouring intentions of engaging in nefarious activities within the sport that the long arm of the law will catch up with them. Be warned,” said Poobalan Govindasamy, the Chairperson of the SAFA Ethics Committee.
March 2016
KHUNE BACK IN THE BAFANA SQUAD BAFANA Bafana head coach Ephraim 'Shakes' Mashaba has named a 25-man squad that will take on Cameroon in crucial back-to-back 2017 Gabon Orange Africa Cup of Nations qualiers. South Africa and the Indomitable Lions rst meet on Saturday, March 26 at Stade Omnisport de Limbe in Limbe, Cameroon. Kick-off for that clash is at 4.30pm. The two nations will then take their battle to Durban for the second leg which will be played three days later – Tuesday, March 29 at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban which kicks off at 7pm. The return leg marks a very important occasion for both countries as it was 24 years ago when the two nations rst clashed in a match to mark South Africa's readmission into the international fold. Bafana Bafana won the international frendly match 10 through a Doctor Khumalo penalty in the 82nd minute at the Kings Park Rugby Stadium in Durban. In seven matches, South Africa has only lost once to Cameroon with three wins and three draws – the 2-1 loss coming in their second meeting back in 1992 in Cape Town. Mashaba has a mammoth task to get South Africa's campaign back on the road after his charges managed just one point from two matches. “These two matches are almost a make-or-break for us. If we want to resurrect our campaign, these are the matches that we will have to do well in. I have heard people talking about must-win matches – and these are the ones. We have only one point and they have six – and to add salt to the wound, some of our
key players are not active in their clubs, have lost form, are out injured or have just returned from injury. But that is no excuse, the show must go on – we have to put up a ght as though our lives depend on these matches. I
mission, even though they have an edge over us as most of their players, if not all, ply their trade abroad and have been very active,”added the Bafana Bafana mentor. “I just hope the players are aware of what is at stake
March 23. South Africa is in Group M of the AFCON qualiers with Cameroon, Gambia and Mauritania. The Indomitable Lions lead the group with six points, three ahead of Mauritania. Bafana Bafana and Gambia on one point each. NB: The winner of the group will progress to the 16-nation AFCON nals, along with two best-placed runners up.
believe we have selected a strong team that will deliver,” said Mashaba. Bafana Bafana last played a competitive match in November last year when they defeated Angola in back to back 2018 Russia FIFA World Cup qualiers. “Unfortunately because of the non-availability of a FIFA date, we have not been able to prepare as thoroughly as we would have liked but lack of enough time to prepare should not blind from our
because these are no ordinary matches. Negative results will see us not active on the international scene for a long time, and if that is not motivation enough for boys to do well, then nothing will be. There are 12 points on offer and it's up to us what we do with them. The reality is that it is still in our hands,” added the Bafana Bafana mentor. Bafana Bafana assembled for camp on Sunday, 20 March and expected to depart for Limbe on Wednesday,
The squad is as follows: Goalkeepers: Itumeleng KHUNE (Kaizer Chiefs), Jackson Mabokgwane (Mpumalanga Black Aces), Darren Keet (KV Kortrijk FC) Defenders: Siyabonga NHLAPO (Bidvest Wits), Asavela MBEKILE (Mamelodi Sundowns), Anele NGCONGCA (Troyes FC), Thabo MATLABA (Orlando Pirates), Cheslyn JAMPIES (Jomo Cosmos), Eric MATHOHO (Kaizer Chiefs), Siso HLANTI (BidVest Wits), Rivaldo COETSEE (Ajax C a p e To w n ) , T h u l a n i HLATSWAYO (Bidvest Wits) Midelders: Andile JALI (KV Oostende), Kamogelo MOKOTJO (FC Twente), Thulani SERERO (Ajax Amsterdam), Themba ZWANE (Mamelodi Sundowns), William TWALA (Kaizer Chiefs), Jabulani SHONGWE (Bidvest Wits), Mpho MAKOLA (Orlando Pirates), Mandla MASANGO (Randers FC), Hlompho KEKANA (Mamelodi Sundowns) Strikers: Thamsanqa GABUZA (Orlando Pirates), Prince NXUMALO (Ajax Cape Town), Tokelo RANTIE (AFC Bournemouth) and Dino NDLOVU (Anorthosis Famagusta FC)