THE future of a magnificent 150-year-old Australian wild fig tree near the South End Museum hangs in the balance, as alleged damage from fires and broken branches raises serious concerns among local residents and heritage advocates
Standing tall with its roots deeply embedded in South End’s soil, the tree has long been a symbol of the area's rich history But recent events have cast a shadow over its continued survival
Michael Barry, artist, curator and trustee of the South End Museum, expressed deep concern over the state of the tree
“The tree is a symbol of South End’s history It has stood here for 150 years,” Barry told the PE Express “Its presence is not just physical it holds emotional and historical significance for this community ”
The discovery of two large broken branches last week has alarmed residents and museum staff alike Barry reported that people experiencing homelessness have been lighting fires inside the hollow trunk of the tree and using its interior for shelter While he acknowledges the plight of the unhoused, Barry says the damage to this historic tree cannot be ignored
“We understand that people are homeless, but the tree is also important to us We just want to keep this tree alive,” he said
“They are making fires inside the tree
The poor tree it’s part of our local history, and we want to protect it ”
Barry has approached the local municipality with a request to erect a protective fence around the tree However, he was told that funds are not available
“The municipality said they don’t have money to build a fence because they’ve already used up their budget We are hoping
that something can still be done to save the tree ”
The fig tree is not the only heritage site facing neglect Barry shared that a memorial and public art installation in the museum’s car park is also being misused
“We have a memorial and public art piece in our car park It’s meant to honour history, but people are sleeping in it and defecating there We’ve had to install spikes to protect it ”
The museum itself, a heritage building run by volunteers, is also facing increasing challenges in preserving its role as a community and cultural hub
“We are a community museum, a volunteer-run space, and we’re seeing encroachment everywhere This tree and our building are important parts of South End’s legacy ”
Barry has written to local government officials urging intervention He’s also pointed out that there are similar heritage trees around the city, including one located at the corner of Cape Road and William Moffett, that should also be protected
As concerns mount, Barry and the community continue to hope that swift action will be taken to preserve this iconic tree, a living monument to South End’s past, for future generations
When the PE Express reached out to Ward 2 Councillor Sean Tappan, he conducted a site visit on Monday, 8 September
“I would have to check if this is, in fact, on Transnet property or municipal property,” he commented
“If it’s a homelessness issue, then it must go through Metro Police A complaint must be lodged with them As Councillor, I can act as an intermediary but have no control over Metro Police and law enforcement ”
Tappan added that he is looking into the matter
The trunk of a 150-year-old Australian
Motherofslainmodelhospitalisedafterstroke
NATASHA BEZUIDENHOUT
THE mother of murdered model Reeva Steenkamp, is fighting for her recovery in hospital after suffering a stroke, prompting an urgent appeal for financial assistance from the Reeva Steenkamp Foundation
June Steenkamp, aged 78, was hospitalised on Monday, 1 September, following a stroke and is currently receiving treatment at a government hospital With her 79th birthday approaching on 26th September, she faces what medical professionals describe as "a long road to recovery" requiring substantial rehabilitation
The family's friend and attorney, Tania Koen, explained that June's condition necessitates comprehensive rehabilitation services, including speech therapy and other specialist treatments The estimated cost of private care at Aurora Nurture Health is R7,000 per day, though the full extent of her requirements remains unclear at this early stage
"It will not be a week or two," Koen shared with the PE Express "We believe in praying for miracles It is too early to say what she would need "
According to Koen, June had been experiencing declining health for several months prior to the stroke Three weeks before the incident, a doctor was arranged for a house visit due to concerns about her well-being When her condition failed to improve, arrangements were made for her to stay with friends for monitoring "She was still not well, so I arranged for a friend to fetch her, and I took her to the doctor and had tests done," Koen recounted "She was here for two weeks I had to fly to Johannesburg for a gender-based violence event, and June wanted to go home on Thursday because she was feeling better "
However, the situation deteriorated rapidly over the weekend "On Saturday, I received a call from a friend who said that something was not okay When I arrived home on Monday, she was placed on a drip " June remains in a government hospital where she is being monitored and treated for both the stroke and an accompanying infection Medical staff are providing supportive care whilst her condition stabilises before rehabilitation can commence Meanwhile, the Reeva Steenkamp Foundation has established a dedicat-
ed fund to ensure June receives the necessary private care and rehabilitation services In a heartfelt social media appeal, the foundation stated: "We are reaching out with a heavy heart to let you know that June suffered a stroke on Monday, 1 September, and is currently in a government hospital "
The foundation emphasised that any funds remaining after June's recovery will be donated to the Reeva Rebecca Steenkamp Foundation to continue its vital mission of combating gender-based violence As June approaches her 79th birthday later this month, the family and foundation are "praying for a miracle" whilst working to ensure she receives the best possible care during her recovery journey
Howtocontribute
The Reeva Rebecca Steenkamp Foundation was established in memory of June's daughter, Reeva Steenkamp, who was tragically murdered by Oscar Pistorius in 2013
For more information contact Tania Koen at info@tkatt co za or click on wwwbackabuddyco za/campaign/ help-june-steenkamp-on-her-road-to-recovery
Elderlyresidentsreceivekeyst h
DECADES of waiting came to an end for Zayo Tuku (100) and Mkita Nombeko (77), who received the keys to their new homes in an emotional moment in Zinyoka on Friday, 5 September
The atmosphere was filled with emotion as Tuku expressed deep gratitude after many years of waiting, and Nombeko shed tears of joy as she stepped into her home for the very first time
The key handover, in Ward 33, was led by Executive Mayor Babalwa Lobishe and Human Settlements MMC, Councillor Thembinkosi Mafana
"This is about so much more than bricks and mortar," Lobishe commented at the key handover ceremony
"These homes represent restored dignity, renewed hope and a true sense of belonging for our most vulnerable residents " Ward 33 has already seen 20 new homes delivered, with an ambitious target of 600 houses to be completed or rectified by December
The project receives funding through the Ward-Based Budget for 2025/26 and addresses three key areas of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality's development plan
For Tuku, who has witnessed South Africa's transformation over an entire century, and Nombeko, the new homes represent security and stability
The Mayor noted that decent housing reduces the burden on families whilst offering an improved quality of life
"Today's handover is an act of service rooted in our Integrated Development Plan and fully aligned with the 7th Administration's national priorities," she added "Housing delivery doesn't just provide shelter; it stimulates local economic activity, creates jobs in construction and develops skills within our communities By fulfilling our housing commitments transparently and consistently, we build public trust "
A fundraising campaign has been started for June Steenkamp, who suffered a stroke recently PHOTO: REEVA STEENKAMP FOUNDATION
Executive Mayor Babalwa Lobishe and Mafana, with Zayo Tuku (100), who rece
Executive Mayor Babalwa Lobishe and Mkita Nombeko (77) who received the keys to her own home during a handover in Ward 33 PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
Youngartist’sinteractive ceramicworkwinsartprize
AN honours student from Gqeberha has claimed the top prize at South Africa's most prominent emerging artist competition, taking home R100,000 and a solo exhibition opportunity with his innovative ceramic sculpture
Juandré van Eck (25), from Nelson Mandela University, was announced as the winner of the 2025 Sasol New Signatures Visual Arts Competition for his interactive piece titled "Cycles of the Mind" The ceramic artwork, which invites viewers to physically engage with it, features two whistles and flowing water that create different sounds when activated
"The ceramic artwork emulates the rhythmic patterns of breath Two whistles positioned on opposite sides 'speak', one a cry of liberation and joy, the other a low, gentle echo of contemplation and unseen turmoil," van Eck explained
The winning piece transforms as people interact with it, with water flowing through the sculpture to create what van Eck describes as "a voice through its gentle flow from one state to the next " Van Eck, who was a merit winner in last year's competition, will hold a solo exhibition at the Pretoria Art Museum in 2026 as part of his prize
The artist hopes his work will be used in meditation classes and as a tool to help people connect with nature
"When people interact with my work, I hope it creates a calming environment that speaks to the inner child, allowing for a sense of play in a world that often feels overwhelming," he said
The runner-up prize of R25,000 went to Thabo Treasure Mofokeng, a 39-year-old Johannesburg artist, for his painting "Still Standing" Mofokeng's work was inspired by his neighbour's resilience after being paralysed by a gunshot wound
Juandré van Eckis the winner of the 2025 Sasol New Signatures Visual Arts Competition for his ceramic piece titled ‘Cycles of the mind’. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
"This piece is a tribute to my neighbour's inspiring spirit and a celebration of the human capacity for resilience, hope and determination," Mofokeng said
This year's competition attracted 903 entries from across South Africa, with 106 works making it to the final exhibition round
The competition, now in its 35th year of Sasol sponsorship, continues to provide a platform for emerging South African artists
Five merit awards of R10,000 each were alsoannounced:
• TammyLeeBaikie(48) from Johannesburg for "Book Worms" (mixed media)
• RebeccaLouiseGlass(22) from Pretoria for "Sell – Fish" (etching)
• Snelihle Asanda Maphumulo (22) from Gqeberha for "Ngaphansi kwesithunzi sakhe (Under His Shadow)" (sheep hide on
• Sarah Volker (23) from Gqeberha for "Taut Tethered and Torn" (ballet tights stones and cement blocks)
Competition chairperson, Pfunzo Sidogi, noted the growing trend towards interactive art among emerging artists
"More and more emerging artists are creating artworks that demand to be experienced beyond purely visual and cognitive dimensions," he said
"Van Eck's ceramic sculpture invites viewers to touch, hold, and gently move the delicately manufactured object This activates the pieces acoustic qualities, creating a beautifully eerie mood "
The approach echoes last year's winner, Miné Kleynhans, whose solo exhibition, "Augury After Autogogues", also focuses on interactive sculptural works using welding, steelwork and 3D printing
Christian Herrmann, Sasol Executive Vice President for Marketing and Sales, Energy and Chemicals, Southern Africa said the competition aligns with Sasol's 75th anniversary celebrations this year
"In this special anniversary year, we celebrate not only the artists who dare to see the world differently but also the shared spirit of innovation that unites us all," Herrmann said
• The Sasol New Signatures exhibition, featuring all winning and finalist works, runs at the Pretoria Art Museum from 4 September to 2 November
The museum is open on Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00-17:00
All finalist works are included in the competition catalogue, available online, and the exhibition can be viewed virtually via the website wwwsasolsignatures co za
Localstudentclaims regionalquizvictory
IN a stunning display of knowledge and composure under pressure, Liyemah Funani, a Grade 11 learner from Theodor Herzl High School, has claimed victory in the regional round of the IIE Varsity College National High Schools' Quiz (NHSQ)
The victory, achieved during a tense digital competition held at the local Varsity College campus, secures Funani's place among the top eight finalists who will compete for the national title in Cape Town on Saturday, 13 September
"This round was exciting and a true test," said Funani following her victory "I wasn't on the leaderboard until much later in the quiz I'm looking forward to the Grand Finale, where I'll have the chance to measure my general knowledge against the best minds in the country "
The competition proved fiercely contested, with Chaez Cannon, a Grade 11 learner from Port Alfred High School, securing second place, while Zeenat Cerfontein from Pearson High School claimed third position In its tenth year, the NHSQ takes place across all eight IIE Varsity College campuses nationwide
The quiz consists of three rounds completed digitally via the popular Kahoot app, testing Grade 11 learners' general knowledge across Geography, Science and Nature, History, Sport, and Current Affairs
The national champion will receive R10,000 in prize money, with their school earning R50,000 and their teacher or coach receiving R6,000 The first runner-up and their school will share R16,000, while the second runner-up and their school will receive R9,000
"The upcoming Grand Finale promises to be an exciting event as it will showcase the brightest young minds from across the country," said Kim Edwards, PR and Events Coordinator at Varsity College Nelson Mandela Bay
As Funani prepares for the national competition, she will be representing not only her school but also the entire Eastern Cape region against seven other regional champions from across South Africa
The IIE Varsity College National High Schools' Quiz is organised by Varsity College, an educational brand of the Independent Institute of Education (The IIE)
Nicole Venter (Academic Head and Business Studies teacher at Theodor Herzl High School) with winner of the IIE’s Varisity College National High Schools’ Quiz Regional round, Liyemah Funani, (a Grade 11 learner from Theodor Herzl High School) and Paul Manson (Campus Head of the IIE Varsity College’s Nelson Mandela Bay campus)
PHOTO: DIRK MOGGEE
ChristianHablützel’stranscontinentalcycleride
IT’S not every day you meet someone who has crossed the African continent on two wheels, but Swiss cyclist, Christian Hablützel (71), has achieved just that! In 2014, Christian pedalled all the way from North Africa to South Africa, and now he plans to cross Africa from south to north HEIDI BOTHA caught up with him during his three-day stay in Richmond Hill – after arriving from Europe on a cargo ship and cycling along the east coast to Gqeberha – to hear the remarkable story of his past journeys and those still ahead.
A retired wildlife biologist and a nature lover, Christian’s aim for his forthcoming journey is the same as that of 2014, to experience as much personal contact with nature and deepen his connection with the natural world while leaving behind as small a carbon and ecological footprint as possible
His environmentally friendly means of travelling suits his commitment to nature as he comments, “To me, our earth with all its life is a huge wonder I feel happier if I don't contribute to destroying what I
absolutely loved travelling through Ethiopia
“As the only African nation that has never been fully colonised, it’s a really authentic place, while, at the same time, quite challenging to travel in All other countries seem tame in comparison ”
But for Christian, nothing seems impossible He plans to take a similar route on his journey up north from the tip of Africa as he did in 2014, with a few exceptions
“With what is happening in Sudan, I'll need to improvise, but I see ways ”
taking time to savour the moments and the world around him It is this balance of determination and appreciation that shapes both his journey and his outlook on life
As riding a bicycle is about maintaining equilibrium by flowing with rather than resisting motion, he also knows that balance is as much about stillness as it is about moving forward
“I am seldom really tired, but if I do get tired, I stop cycling for the day I cycle slowly but continuously, take time to rest and to marvel at the world around me
I’ve learnt that efficiency is only one side of life
“Having time, taking things easy, going slowly and not planning ahead so much are precious too Sustaining a balance between the two is most important ”
His plea to drivers is simple but heartfelt: take care on the road, for your own safety and for the safety of others whether they are behind the wheel, walking, or cycling
He admits that the greatest danger he has faced so far comes from cars and trucks
“I just pray that every driver
takes care ”
Of Gqeberha, he has the following to say, “Gqeberha impressed me with its friendly people I made an exception to my principles by accepting a ride by car to the beautiful Addo Elephant National Park with my kind and hospitable Richmond Hill SWISS Inn Africa Airbnb hosts ”
As he continues his unique journey across Africa, Christian carries with him the memories and stories of the people and places he has encountered, leaving behind only the faint sound of whirring wheels
CelebrateSpringwith ParkDriveVillage
PARK Drive Village is inviting residents, families and the wider community to their “Celebrate the Season Spring Social” on Wednesday, 24 September, for an afternoon filled with storytelling, prizes, and refreshments
Set in the village's beautifully landscaped grounds and communal areas at 34 Park Drive, St George’s Park, the theme for the day is "Hats Off to Spring"
Guests are encouraged to get creative by wearing their most imaginative, floral-inspired hats
A highlight to look forward to is the announcement of the Short Story Competition winners, celebrating memories and special moments under the theme “A Memory in Bloom ”
The event, which is set to begin at 14:30, will feature lucky draws, spot prizes and live piano music to enhance the occasion
Prizes will be awarded in several fun and light-hearted categories
Everyone is welcome, whether you're a local neighbour, a family member or simply curious about retirement living with care, comfort and character
• For more information or to RSVP, please contact info@parkdrivevillage co za or call 041 585 9670
Steve tree op in GQ, Joubertina
NELSON Mandela Bay matriculants can now enter for the prestigious Miss and Mr Matric Dance competition, hosted by PE Express and UD Express
This charitable initiative supports CANSA, with all proceeds directed towards the vital work they undertake in assisting cancer patients within Eastern Cape communities
The competition will culminate in a glamorous fashion show finale at Walmer Park Shopping Centre in Gqeberha on Saturday, 18 October 2025, at 16:00 Here, entrants will showcase their stunning matric dance ensembles, and winners for both PE Express and UD Express categories will be announced
Event highlights and prizes
• The winners photos will be featured on the front pages of PE Express and UD Express
• Attractive prizes in Walmer Park gift cards: Winners: R2,000 each, Runners-up: R1,000, and Second Runners-up: R500.
Rules and entry details
• An entry fee of R60 is payable direct-
ly to CANSA (banking details below)
• Entrants must send their matric dance photo and completed entry form via email, including proof of payment
• Submit high-resolution photographs where the full outfit including dress or suit, hair, make-up, and accessories, can be viewed Photo collages (maximum three photos) are permissible
• Only one entry per matriculant is permitted, featuring a solo photograph or collage No group photos, selfies, or photos with partners are accepted
• Only matriculants from Gqeberha schools are eligible for the PE Express category while the UD Express category is exclusive to schools in Kariega Despatch, KwaNobuhle, and Nqweba (Kirkwood)
• Photos posted on Facebook timelines or Messenger are disqualified – entries must be submitted only via email Choose your image wisely as replacements are not accepted post-submission
• All qualifying entries will be posted in an album on the PE Express and UD Express Facebook pages By entering the competition, you are giving EP Media permission to use these images on our social media platforms
Note: Facebook reactions do not influence the competition
Judging is conducted by an independent panel Their decision is final
Closing dates
• PE Express: 17:00 on 14 October 2025
UD Express: 17:00 on 8 October 2025
How to to enter
1 Obtain the entry form via email from mdevries@cansa.org za or download it from the PE Express and UD Express websites
2 Email the completed form along with your matric dance photo and proof of payment to mdevries@cansa.org za Use the subject line, “CANSA Matric Dance Competition” and indicate whether it is for PE Express or UD Express
Bank details for entry fee (R60): Beneficiary: CANSA
• Bank: Absa
• Branch Code: 63200500
• Account Number: 1157140058
For additional info, contact Marius de Vries at mdevries@ cansa org za, 041 373 5157, or 083 481 7404
Die bekende Steve Hofmeyr kom maak weer binnekort ‘n draai in die OosKaap. Hy sal op 11 September om 19:30 by die George McLachlan Saal in Joubertina op die verhoog verskyn. Kaartjies is R180 per persoon. Vir besprekings, kontak Genine by 083 520 9505 Op 12 September sal hy ook in Gqeberha optree, by die Fairview Sportsentrum in Willowweg, Fairview om 19:30. Kaartjies teen R200 per persoon is beskikbaar aanlyn by www. westway co za, vanaf Hellen by 082 487 3118 of Anton by 083 760 0609 FOTO: VERSKAF
DIARY|DAGBOEK
Gqeberha Central Men's Shed: Meet every Monday from 10:00 to 12:00 at Caritas, 16 West Street, Newton Park A men's shed is a space where men can relax get together to talk, work together, have a cup of coffee, and create friends All ages are welcome WhatsApp Willie at 071 142 3771
Lady's Slipper Plaasmark: Die plaasmark is elke Saterdag oop van 08:00 tot 12:00 in Gqeberha Dis op Ou Kaapweg en word gehou by die Van Stadensrivier NG Kerk reg langs St Albans Korrektiewe Dienste Kontak Nicolet Gates by 073 108 7105 vir inligting Diabetes Wellness Group (PE Branch): A meeting will be held on Wednesday, 10 September, at 19:15 for 19:30, at the Caritas Service Centre in West Street Newton Park Audiologist Mampho Dlulane will speak about 'Silent Impact: How Diabetes Affects your Hearing ' Contact Martin/Elizabeth at 082 579 9059 or 041 367 2810 for more info
STAPE: The Sectional Title Association of PE will have a debate forum on Saturday, 13 September, at the PE Bowling Club at St George's Park, at 09:30 for 10:00 The speaker will be Demetrios Agryakis Topics will include the introduction of CSOS advi-
sory practice directives and an open debate forum Entry is free for members and portfolio managers and R20 for non-members For more info, contact info stape@gmail com
Re-Seconds Market: Calling all collectors, treasure hunters and those looking for unique items to visit the Re-Seconds Market at Walmer Town Hall on Saturday, 13 September, from 09:00 to 14:00 Vendors will showcase thrift clothing toys Tupperware jewellery, pet treats, hair accessories, home décor and vintage items, as well as plenty of food and great coffee Public entry is free For more information, contact 083 588 5823 or theresecondsmarket@gmail com
Genealogical Society of SA (East Cape Branch): The next meeting will be on 18 September, at 14:30 for 15:00 in the Lolly Shtein Hall at Laubscher Park West, Villiers Road, Walmer Contact John Wilmot at 068 802 1518 or jaysqh@iafrica com, or Alan at 084 981 8491 or amontgomery@aerosat co za
Diabetes Wellness Group (S'khona): A meeting will be held on Saturday, 20 September at the Pieter Rademeyer Community Hall in Algoa Park Nzwakie Gwavu will speak about 'Understanding the four Ps of Diabetes – Polyuria, Polydipsia, Polyphagia
and Polyneurology' Contact Pamela Molefe at 082 579 9059 or 041 367 2810
Let's Thrive Beauty and Business Fair: The first-ever Beauty and Business Fair is coming to Gqeberha on 21 September at the Boardwalk Hotel The event will bring together 110 talented vendors including renowned artists, Liam Taffi and Michaela Lee, Meneer Cee The fair will offer three ticket options: a standard ticket for R200, a premium ticket for R350 (includes a complimentary purchase of R150 from a vendor) and a VIP ticket for R650 (which includes a goody bag and a complimentary purchase of R150 from one of the vendors) Ticket holders will have the opportunity to vote for their favourite vendor, with the winner receiving 20% of the ticket sales Follow Let's Thrive on Facebook for updates
Little Vintage Fayre: The fayre will take place on Wednesday, 24 September (public holiday) from 09:00 to 14:00, at Vintage PE, 2 St Philips Street, Richmond Hill Stalls will be selling vintage jewellery bric-a-brac books and more Entry is free Craft Market: The Linton Grange Library will have a craft market on 25 September from 09:00 to 15:00 and on 26 September from 09:00 to 13:00
Mater Dei Family Market: Mater Dei Catholic Church 337 Cape Road Newton Park, will host a family market on Saturday, 27 September, from 09:30 There will be food stalls crafts jumping castles and fun and games for the whole family Entry is free For more information contact Monique at 082 332 4601 or Felicia at 083 360 9324 Loerie Nartjiefees: Moenie die fees op 27 September met Appel, Elizma Theron Armand Hofmeyr Dillon Lerm en Kobus en Karla misloop nie Dit beloof 'n feesatmosfeer met plaasvars groente pannekoek kunsmarkstalletjies tee/koffiewinkel kosstalletjies bier- en cidertent Toegang is R150 vir volwassenes en R50 vir leerders Kaartjies is beskikbaar aanlyn by Quicket of by die hek Vir meer inligting, besoek nartjiefees co za, Nartjiefees FB en Instagram Craft, Hobbies and Toy Fair: The fair will take place on 4 October from 08:30 to 13:00 at the Walmer Town Hall Main Road Walmer There will be loads of craft stalls, dolls, bears and a collectable model car display, as well as a beautiful display of Lego There will also be tea, coffee and goodies to eat No entrance fee Contact Jennifer Endemann at 082 397 8383
Market Day: Age in Action Eastern Cape will host a market day fundrais-
er in aid of the Ethembeni Community Safe Home on Saturday 11 October at the Department of Social Development yard, located in Motherwell, Addo Road Gqeberha residents are invited to participate by renting a table or bringing a food truck to sell their goods The cost is R150 for a stall and R250 for a food truck All proceeds will go toward the safe home's operational needs Contact 041 457 1466 WhatsApp 074 873 6305 or email ageinactionec@gmail com
RELIGIOUS:
Healing Crusade: Join the next meeting on Saturday, 13 September, at 10:00 in Hall 4 at the Word of Faith Christian Centre on the corner of William Moffet Expressway and Lilly Street Mangold Park All are welcome, free of charge Hi's Place Developing Centre: They have a church and healing service every Sunday morning at 09:00 Everyone is welcome Directions: Drive from PE on Old Cape Road 1 6 km past the Wedgewood Golf Course entrance and enter through the gate of Sovereign Foods on the right-hand side of the road For more information contact Pastor Christo Campher at 082 515 2294
of ALVIN
EP Media en Novus Media kan nie bevestig of enige van die geadverteerde dienste of produkte veilig is vir gebruik of die verlangde uitwerking of resultaat sal hê nie. Lesers word gewaarsku om die adverteerder se getuigskrifte deeglik te oorweeg en na te gaan. EP Media en Novus Media aanvaar hoegenaamd geen aanspreeklikheid ten opsigte van enige van die geadverteerde dienste of goedere nie.
Bowlingduoreadytostrike outatWorldChamps
TWO EP tenpin bowlers Leon Cilliers, left, and Gerrie du Preez, will represent SA at the International Bowling Federation (IBF) World Seniors Championships
The prestigious event will be hosted at the National Bowling Stadium in Reno, Nevada, USA, from 13 to 23 October The Championships consist of singles, doubles, team and masters events EP deputy-president Cilliers earned his first international cap at the European Seniors Championships in Leipzig, Germany, in February this year Du Preez, one of the Bays most experienced bowlers, will be making his international debut at the IBF event and is second on the national rankings with Cilliers third Cilliers and du Preez will rub shoulders with international bowlers like USA's Chris Barnes and Parker Bohn III Both were in action on dif-
ferent lane conditions at the 30-team TBASA Trios event held at Dolphin Bowl in Amanzimtoti last month Robby Govender and Craig Mathe-
son are the other members of the
which will be
Weekendsportresults
SELBY MADIKANE
Douglas Mbopa Secondary, Enqileni Primarytakehonours
DESPITE the chilly weather conditions, learners came in throngs to watch the Motherwell Schools Football Association (MOSFA) Top Four U-15 Playoffs, with Douglas Mbopa Secondary boys' team and Enqileni Primary taking the honours at Enkwenkwezini Primary Grounds and at Siyaphambili Primary Grounds, respectively, on Friday Douglas Mbopa looked untouchable as they started their semi-final against hosts Enkwenkwezini, whom they demolished 3-1 Iva Batyi got his name on the scoresheet with a brilliant goal in the first half After soaking up huge pressure, Enkwenkwezini scored their equaliser courtesy of Cebo Gwabane in the second half Douglas Mbopa continued their dominance in the second half It was an end-to-end attacking game Lulonke Banjo sent a long-range volley that beat the Enkwenkwezini goalkeeper Douglas Mbopa was 2-1 in front Banjo completed his brace in the last five minutes of the game Douglas Mbopa booked themselves a
place in the final following their 3-1 triumph over Enkwenkwezini
In the other semi-final, Enkululekweni Primary celebrated after their striker, Lulutho Macala, scored the only goal against Mfesane Secondary, who were desperately searching for an equaliser Enkululekweni managed the game well as they defended their 1-0 lead until the final whistle
In the final, Douglas Mbopa overcame Enkululekweni 4-0 Batyi and Banjo scored a goal apiece in the first half In the second half, Banjo scored his second goal whilst Chuma Norhubela's goal sealed the game at 4-0 in favour of Douglas Mbopa
In the girls' semi-finals, Imbasa Primary won 6-5 on penalties against Ncedo Secondary after their 2-2 fulltime draw, whilst Enqileni advanced to the final via a walkover as their opponents Vulumzi Secondary failed to show up for the semi-final In the final, Enqileni were crowned winners after they overcame Imbasa 4-3 on penalties following a 1-1 full-time score Each winning school received a trophy and gold medals
ZWIFA First Division League season
ALL the hard work paid off for My Best Shot when he was crowned as the East Cape Horse of the Season at the annual awards evening
The awards for the season that stretched from 1 August 2024 till the end of July this year, were held this past Saturday night in the Bold Silvano Room at the Fairview race track in Greenbushes
My Best Shot had a very busy season in which he made history by becoming the first horse to have won all three legs of the East Cape Sophomore Challenge for threeyear-olds
Trained by the East Cape champion, Alan Greeff, My Best Shot was also the first East Cape horse in 21 years to have competed in Africa’s greatest horse race, the Hollywoodbets Durban July, this year
comestoanend
AS the Zwide Football Association (ZWIFA) League came to an end at Zwide Celtics Grounds on Saturday, some twists at the top of the log table led to unforgettable moments for teams that had set their sights on winning the league trophy
Some teams finished the league campaign exhausted following a long title race Drama unfolded as Gal City FC managed to lift the trophy after Young Romans FC had been log leaders for two weeks Romans, who lost to Everton FC in the first round, managed to beat them in the second round, but Everton were disqualified from the ZWIFA First Division League as they failed to play three matches In their final fixture, Everton failed to turn up against NUBS FC Reserves Consequently, all of Everton's results were expunged from the records of all teams that had played against them It came as a great surprise to Romans, as Everton's non-compliance forced them to drop to second place on the ZWIFA First Division League final log table Meanwhile, Gal City FC had been beaten by Everton in both league rounds As it stands, Gal City have been crowned ZWIFA First Division League champions
In the final round of matches, Romans earned a hard-fought 1-0 win over Shining Stars FC Reserves, whilst Gal City cruised to an 8-0 victory over Amadamara FC Reserves Zwide Celtics FC, who failed to show up for their last match of the season, lost by default to NUBS FC Reserves
Real Rovers FC drew 2-2 with their neighbours, Mighty Heroes FC, who were also in the league title race
Forvia Uitenhage 0-3 Tenneco Ride Control SA (Pty)Ltd
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My Best Shot is owned in partnership by the trainer and his wife, Glennifer, Darryl Yatar, Hilton Yutar, Nick and Val McFall, Gary Piha and Greg Blank
As expected, the Greeff stable picked up most of the awards in what was an incredible season for the champion trainer
Not only was Greeff officially crowned as the champion trainer for the 17th time, but he also received a Special Award for winning the biggest races in the country for two-year-old fillies with three different horses
Golden Palm, Anotherdanceforme and Direct Hit were all nominated for the Champion Two-Year-Old Filly Golden Palm was the winner
Two-year-old horses are generally not considered for the Horse Of The Year Award until they prove themselves beyond their age group
The convenor of the judging panel, Henk Steenkamp, acknowledged that Golden Palm was discussed as a possible Horse of the Season at the final judges’ meeting
“It is rare for that to happen with two-year-olds, but Golden Palm’s victories in the SA Fillies Nursery and Douglas Whyte Stakes made
sure her name was entered in the Horse of the Season conversation
“The past season was one of the best for the province for some time
In another season, horses like Firealley and Joy And Peace would also have been worthy winners as Horse of the Season but in the end
My Best Shot was the unanimous choice of the panel,” Steenkamp explained
With the celebrations of last season’s winners something of the past, the current season continued last Friday with the running of the Speedsters Stakes
The Gavin Smith stable continued their incredible success in this race by winning it for the fifth consecutive year Song of Myself flew home to win under jockey, Yuzae Ramzan
It is not often that we have a midweek Fairview meeting Those racing fans who are free on a Wednesday afternoon can make their way to the track for eight races on the poly surface today
The first race is off at 12:00
Reynard Jansen, ‘n leerder van die Hoërskool Framesby, het onlangs aan die OP Gholf Kampioen van Kampioenetoernooi deelgeneem. Hy het met ‘n uitstekende telling van 143 (71+72) die derde plek verower Verskeie SA en provinsiale gholfspelers het ook aan die toernooi deelgeneem
FOTO: VERSKAF
team,
managed by George Jagga, all from Central Gauteng
EP tenpin bowlers Leon Cilliers and Gerrie du Preez.
PHOTO: SUPPLIED
The Douglas Mbopa Secondary u/15 boys team celebrate the fruits of their hard labour
Alan Greeff with one of many trophies
PHOTO: PAULINE HERMAN
Enqileni Primary’s u/15 girls are in a happy mood after winning the finals
