For Formula 1 fans, there's something uniquely special about Singapore. It’s not just another race on the calendar—it’s a spectacle that fuses adrenaline-pumping motorsport with the city-state's dazzling skyline, cultural charm, and electric atmosphere. My journey to the 2015 Singapore Grand Prix was a dream come true, combining a deep-rooted love for Formula 1 with the allure of one of the sport’s most iconic venues.

Why Singapore? A History of Racing Under the Lights
The Singapore Grand Prix debuted in 2008, making history as Formula 1's first-ever night race. It was a bold concept: a street circuit lit by thousands of floodlights, weaving through Marina Bay’s futuristic architecture. From the first lap, it captivated fans worldwide.

Singapore quickly became one of the crown jewels of the F1 calendar. Known for its challenging corners and limited overtaking opportunities, the Marina Bay Circuit is a test of endurance for drivers and machines alike. The humid tropical climate, coupled with the circuit’s 23 turns, pushes even the most elite racers to their limits. Add in the unique spectacle of nighttime racing, and you have an event unlike any other.

By 2015, Singapore was firmly established as a fan favorite. Its races had already witnessed dramatic moments, from Felipe Massa's pit-lane heartbreak in 2008 to Sebastian Vettel’s dominant performances for Red Bull. For me, attending this race was non-negotiable—it wasn’t just about motorsport, but about experiencing the magic of Formula 1 in a city that feels tailor-made for the occasion.

The Lead-Up: From Buenos Aires to Singapore
My F1 journey began decades earlier, as a fan of Ayrton Senna. The only Grand Prix I had attended before Singapore was in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 1995—a race Damon Hill, my favorite driver at the time, won in commanding fashion. Fast-forward 20 years, and my fascination with F1 had only deepened.

Watching Singapore’s inaugural night race on TV in 2008 left me mesmerized. The cars tearing through illuminated streets, the glimmering skyline, and the carnival-like atmosphere—it was pure spectacle. When I embarked on a round-the-world trip in 2014, attending the Singapore Grand Prix became my top priority. By the time I landed in the Lion City on a humid September day in 2015, tickets purchased 11 months earlier in hand, I could hardly contain my excitement.

Thursday: Walking the Track and Savoring the Anticipation
After picking up my tickets, I spent Thursday exploring the Marina Bay Circuit as workers made final preparations. Walking the track was surreal; I saw firsthand the tight corners and high-speed straights where racing legends would battle. It was also a chance to scout the best viewing spots. My Bay Grandstand ticket granted access to multiple zones, including platforms along the track. This flexibility was a blessing—Singapore's street circuit offers many perspectives, each with its own charm.

Friday: First Roars and Unexpected Friendships
Friday marked the beginning of track action, and the city buzzed with anticipation. As I left my hostel for Free Practice 1, I finally met a fellow fan—Suzi from Finland, a diehard Kimi Räikkönen supporter. We hit it off immediately and decided to watch the weekend’s sessions together.

Seated in the Bay Grandstand, the sight and sound of the F1 cars roaring past for the first time was an emotional moment. Though quieter than the V10 engines of the 1990s, the hybrid V6 engines still conveyed immense power and precision. Live racing is a different beast than watching on TV—you see every twitch of the car, every brush against the limit, every ounce of effort from the drivers.

Exploring Zone 4 later, we discovered a viewing platform between Turns 12 and 13. This became my favorite spot of the weekend; it offered an incredible view of the cars braking hard and accelerating through tight corners. The only downside? No screens to follow action elsewhere on the track.

After the on-track excitement, the festivities continued with a live performance by Pharrell Williams. As the music echoed across Marina Bay, I couldn’t help but marvel at the seamless blend of sport and entertainment.

Saturday: Qualifying Drama and Skyline Views
The energy escalated on Saturday. Free Practice 3 brought us to Turn 8, a spot with a screen and excellent views of the action. For qualifying, Joni and I returned to the Bay Grandstand. The Marina Bay Sands hotel and city skyline formed a breathtaking backdrop as drivers fought for pole position. The view was stunning, but the constant foot traffic in front of my seat was distracting—note to self: find a new spot for race day.

Sebastian Vettel dominated qualifying, securing pole position for Ferrari. Watching his flying lap was a masterclass in precision, and it set the stage for what promised to be an intense race. That evening, Maroon 5 performed, but I only stayed for part of the set—Sunday was the real show.

Sunday: Race Day and a Weekend to Remember
Race day was finally here. Two hours before the lights went out, Joni and I staked out a prime spot near Stamford Grandstand. It was standing-room only, but we didn’t mind. Being mere feet from the track, with a screen in front of us, made it worth every second.

The race itself was quintessential Singapore: grueling, strategic, and thrilling in bursts. Sebastian Vettel controlled proceedings from start to finish, delivering a flawless victory for Ferrari. While the action on track wasn’t as chaotic as in previous years, the atmosphere more than made up for it. The crescendo of engines, the cheers of fans, and the sheer spectacle of cars racing under the lights were unforgettable.

Adding an element of humor and disbelief was a drunken spectator who wandered onto the track, momentarily halting the race. It was a bizarre but quintessentially F1 moment—a reminder that even in a sport defined by precision, unpredictability reigns.

Reflections: The Allure of Singapore
As the final lap concluded and Vettel claimed victory, I felt a wave of gratitude. The Singapore Grand Prix had lived up to every expectation. Beyond the race, the weekend was a celebration of motorsport’s ability to unite fans from all walks of life. From bonding with Joni to exploring the Marina Bay Circuit, every moment reinforced why Singapore is considered a must-visit for F1 enthusiasts.

Singapore’s night race has carved a unique place in Formula 1 history. It’s more than a race; it’s a festival, a spectacle, and a testament to what makes F1 special. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the sport, this is one experience you shouldn’t miss. For me, it was a dream come true—and I can’t wait to return to the streets of Singapore, where the lights shine brightest and the passion for racing burns hottest.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

Boxing icon Lennox Lewis, the former undisputed heavyweight champion, is set to return to South Africa, a country that holds a unique place in his storied career. Lewis will be a central figure at the much-anticipated "Rivalry Reloaded" event at Emperors Palace this December. This occasion not only highlights his enduring legacy but also introduces the South African audience to a rising star under his mentorship, Kestna “Hardball” Davis.

Kestna Davis: From the Streets of Kingston to the World Stage
Kestna Davis’s journey to the boxing ring is nothing short of extraordinary. The Jamaican southpaw, who overcame a tumultuous childhood that saw him shot at the age of 12, found redemption in boxing. “I stole, I did everything, and I was shot while sleeping on the street,” Davis shared. “An inch over, and I would’ve been paralyzed.”

Davis found his way into the sport through sheer determination and has since risen through the ranks under the guidance of Lennox Lewis. With over 70 amateur victories, Davis relocated to New Jersey to pursue his professional career. Now, as part of a collaboration between Lion Promotions and Golden Gloves, Davis will train at Brian Mitchell’s gym in Johannesburg to prepare for his South African debut.

Promoter Rodney Berman described Davis as a thrilling addition to the card: “Having Kestna here, alongside Lennox Lewis, adds a dynamic element to the event. It’s an incredible opportunity for South African fans.”

Lennox Lewis: A Legacy Beyond the Ring
Lewis’s return to South Africa evokes memories of his career-defining moments, including his victory over Hasim Rahman in 2001, avenging an earlier defeat. Known for his strategic brilliance, physicality, and mental resilience, Lewis redefined what it meant to be a heavyweight champion.

From his Olympic gold medal in 1988 to becoming a three-time world champion, Lewis’s career was marked by grit and determination. Even in retirement, he remains an influential figure, mentoring young fighters and emphasizing the importance of hard work and integrity in boxing.

Lewis’s philosophy resonates deeply: “Boxing isn’t just about brute strength; it’s about skill and outwitting your opponent.” His presence at “Rivalry Reloaded” underscores his commitment to nurturing talent and inspiring the next generation of fighters.

A Must-Watch Event for Boxing Fans
The “Rivalry Reloaded” event promises a thrilling evening of boxing, with Davis’s fight under the watchful eye of Lewis being a highlight. Beyond the action in the ring, the event celebrates the legacy of one of boxing’s greatest while championing the sport's future stars.

For South African boxing enthusiasts, this is more than an event—it’s a moment to witness the blend of history, mentorship, and the promise of new talent.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

The Springbok Sevens squad is set to bring energy and determination to Cape Town this weekend as they aim to reclaim the title they last won in 2015. Headlining the team changes are the return of Mfundo Ndhlovu, a two-time World Series winner and Commonwealth Games gold medallist, and the inclusion of uncapped Zander Reynders, poised to become Blitzbok #196.

The adjustments follow injuries sustained by Ryan Oosthuizen and Christie Grobbelaar during the season opener in Dubai, necessitating a reshuffle by head coach Sandile Ngcobo. Ndhlovu, making his 18th appearance in Blitzbok colors, will experience the Cape Town Sevens for the first time, while Reynders steps into the spotlight after an impressive performance with the Springbok Sevens ‘A’-side in Dubai.

A Rising Star Joins the Blitzboks
Reynders, a Computer Engineering graduate from the University of Pretoria and alumnus of Midstream College, is set to make history as the school’s first rugby international. The 23-year-old has been a standout talent, earning his spot in the squad after catching the coaching team’s eye during pre-season and subsequent performances.

“Zander has shown immense promise and impressed us from day one,” said coach Ngcobo. “He’s been learning quickly, and pairing him with Impi Visser this week has given him invaluable insights both on and off the field.”

A Welcome Return for Ndhlovu
Ndhlovu’s return to the squad marks the culmination of months of recovery and preparation. After captaining the Invitational team in Dubai and completing his academic studies, the 26-year-old is eager to make his mark on home soil.

“Mfundo’s journey has been challenging with injuries, but seeing him fit and firing is fantastic,” added Ngcobo. “He’s worked hard to get here, and his presence adds experience and energy to the team.”

Optimism Ahead of Cape Town
Despite their challenges in Dubai, Ngcobo remains confident in his team’s ability to adapt and improve. “The squad has worked hard this week to address the gaps that hindered us in Dubai. The excitement is palpable, and playing in front of a home crowd will only fuel our resolve.”

With co-captains Impi Visser and Zain Davids leading the charge, the Blitzboks are determined to deliver a memorable performance for their passionate supporters at the Cape Town Stadium.

Springbok Sevens Squad for Cape Town
Impi Visser (co-captain) – 40 tournaments, 205 points
Zain Davids (co-captain) – 48 tournaments, 210 points
Ricardo Duarttee – 13 tournaments, 221 points
Shaun Williams – 18 tournaments, 157 points
Dewald Human – 26 tournaments, 291 points
Siviwe Soyizwapi – 54 tournaments, 780 points
Shilton van Wyk – 21 tournaments, 185 points
Mfundo Ndhlovu – 17 tournaments, 115 points
Quewin Nortje – 7 tournaments, 105 points
Donavan Don – 4 tournaments, 35 points
David Brits – 4 tournaments, 25 points
Zander Reynders – Uncapped
Tristan Leyds – 6 tournaments, 97 points

As the countdown begins, fans can anticipate an electric atmosphere and a Blitzboks team ready to leave it all on the field.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

The Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 has shattered records, becoming the fastest-selling edition in the tournament’s history. With over 220,000 tickets sold, the event is already poised to be the largest and most inclusive celebration of women’s rugby ever.

During the initial ticket application window, an additional 90,000 tickets were snapped up by fans, adding to the 130,000 secured during the presale period. This surge of enthusiasm means the England-hosted tournament has already sold 50% more tickets than the 2021 event in New Zealand.

Applications have poured in from fans in 72 countries, reflecting a global excitement for the tournament. Strikingly, the buyer demographics show an equal split between men and women, underlining the inclusivity of this historic event.
Scheduled to kick off on 22 August 2025 at Sunderland’s Stadium of Light, the tournament will span eight cities across England and feature high-stakes matches, including England’s pool games and the grand final at Twickenham Stadium. The high demand for these fixtures has necessitated ticket ballots to manage interest.

Sarah Massey, Managing Director of the tournament, highlighted the significance of this milestone: “Breaking records for ticket sales is just the beginning. We’re building towards a tournament that promises to be inclusive, entertaining, and unforgettable for fans and players alike. England’s rich rugby tradition and growing enthusiasm for women’s sport have been reflected in the overwhelming demand.”

Fans who missed earlier opportunities can still secure their place when the next ticket phase opens on 25 February 2025. For a more luxurious experience, ticket-inclusive premium packages are now available, offering official match tickets and additional perks, starting at £240 per person.

England 2025 will be the first Rugby World Cup hosted under a joint-venture model between World Rugby and the RFU, supported by funding from the UK Government. This partnership aims to ensure the tournament is both efficient and impactful, setting a new standard for future events.

With Mastercard, Capgemini, Gallagher, and Asahi as principal partners, and exceptional global interest, the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 promises to be a landmark event in the history of women’s sports. Fans are urged to secure their tickets through official channels to be part of this momentous celebration of rugby.

[Submitted by Estea Rademeyer]

Kimberley – A stellar all-round performance from the Proteas Women saw them cruise to a six-wicket victory over England in the first ICC Women’s Championship (IWC) One-Day International on Wednesday. The triumph at Kimberley Oval gave South Africa a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Marizanne Kapp (3/24) and rising star Annerie Dercksen (3/16) spearheaded South Africa’s bowling attack, restricting England to 186 all out in just 38.4 overs. The Proteas’ captain, Laura Wolvaardt, anchored the chase with an unbeaten 59 off 114 balls, supported by Nadine de Klerk’s explosive 48* off just 28 deliveries, sealing the win with 70 balls to spare.

England’s Struggles with the Bat
After winning the toss, England opted to bat first under scorching conditions. The decision quickly backfired as Kapp delivered a devastating opening spell, removing Sophia Dunkley (4), Tammy Beaumont (11), and Nat Sciver-Brunt (0) to leave England reeling at 29/3 in the seventh over.

England captain Heather Knight (40) and Amy Jones (21) briefly steadied the innings, but wickets fell at regular intervals. Dercksen’s disciplined bowling, complemented by Nonkululeko Mlaba’s (2/47) spin, ensured England never found their footing. A late 67-run stand between Charlie Dean (47*) and Sophie Ecclestone (17) added respectability to the total before Dercksen and Kapp wrapped up the innings.

Proteas Shine in the Chase
Chasing 187, South Africa lost opener Tazmin Brits early to Lauren Bell (1/30). Wolvaardt and Suné Luus (7) consolidated, taking the team to 46/1 by the end of the powerplay. Though Luus fell to Dean shortly after, Wolvaardt’s calm presence and a career-best 27 from Dercksen kept South Africa on course.

After Dercksen’s departure, Kapp chipped in with a vital 22 before Nadine de Klerk took center stage. De Klerk’s fiery innings, featuring 11 boundaries, ensured a swift finish as she and Wolvaardt completed the chase in the 39th over.

Looking Ahead
The Proteas Women will now turn their attention to the second ODI, which doubles as the fourth annual Black Day match, raising awareness against gender-based violence. The fixture is scheduled for Sunday, 8 December, at Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium in Durban.

Fixtures
Second ODI: Sunday, 8 December – Kingsmead Stadium, Durban
Third ODI: Wednesday, 11 December – JB Marks Oval, Potchefstroom
Only Test: Sunday, 15 – Wednesday, 18 December – Mangaung Oval, Bloemfontein

The Proteas Women have set the tone with this commanding performance, and the stage is now set for an enthralling series against England

[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

International rugby legends exist, and Siya Kolisi's name will forever hold reverence in South African history. Not only does Kolisi hail from Zwide, a township in Port Elizabeth, but he also reaches the world's rugby summit. Such an achievement represents more than just a victory over hardship; it signifies the strength of purpose and leadership that galvanizes a collective toward an ideal. As the captain of the Springboks, Kolisi has made sure that his team is victorious in the Rugby World Cup for the last two tournaments. Most importantly, he becomes the centerpiece of the South African nation, making strides toward social unity and patriotism.

Leadership on the Field

Kolisi's elevation to the captaincy in 2018 was a significant milestone, as he became the first Black individual to hold the captaincy of the Springboks team, a historically white team during the apartheid era. Such an appointment was not only ceremonial; it was a deliberate decision by Rassie Erasmus, who was the head coach at the time, to balance the team in terms of the nation’s demographics and cultures. Under Kolisi's leadership, the Springboks have not only become formidable on the field, but they have also fostered a culture of unity and a shared vision that transcends racial differences.

Adopting a very humanistic approach to leadership, Kolisi considers himself to be both an independent and a team player. His remarkable ability to motivate and lead South African rugby players from diverse cultural backgrounds stems from his life of survival and the hope it symbolizes. During the dramatic scenes of the 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cups, his leadership was evident as he maintained composure under stress and guided his team with inspirational words, all of which contributed to the Boks winning key matches.

The influence on low-income communities

With his roots in rugby, Kolisi has successfully navigated and thrived in the complex dynamics of South African society. Many see him as a change ambassador, capable of uniting South Africans, especially in light of the recent ramifications of apartheid. Another aspect of his brief, particularly given South Africa's rugby history, is the Great Orator effect, where people look to him to provide at least some sense of unity for the nation.

Off the pitch, Kolisi’s social impact advocacy focused on low-income communities, or the Kolisi Foundation, is indicative of the patriotism that South Africa has.

With all that he has endured, Kolisi’s struggles are a microcosm of South African society, a reality that he seems to internalize and leverage toward his cause. In this spirit, Kolisi entered the Rugby World Cup as a symbol of global struggle.

A Source of National Rejuvenation

Given everything we've seen, it's clear that Kolisi's leadership has consistently provided the South African nation with the support it needs. In the struggle to integrate various social fabrics of South Africa through sports and patriotism, Kolisi has been a figure who has awakened sports fans. Patriotism under Kolisi’s leadership flourished as more South African citizens, irrespective of their social standing, found solace in the group’s aggregates.

The entire population was ecstatic during the 2019 World Cup, with no signs of depression. It serves as a shining example of bringing together a nation that was previously divided. Kolisi is one of the few sports speakers who has stayed in touch with the people of his country, attesting to their struggles while leading them to greater sporting victories. Speaking in a similar context around the rugby world cup, Kolisi's message was clear: "I dedicate this cup to the people of South Africa" by presenting the game in such a manner.

Challenges and Future Prospects

As much as Kolisi’s journey has been remarkable in his captaincy, there have been areas of concern that he has had to work upon. One of the objectives has been to ease the pressure of expectations on the players while maintaining performances on the international stage and constructing a better understanding of each other’s role. Moreover, Kolisi's leadership styles have had to contend with the universal politics of the sport, particularly in South Africa, where political interpretations of virtually everything are possible.

In the coming years, whatever Kolisi’s position may be, playing or coaching, he is bound to remain an influential figure contributing to the future of South African rugby. His potential evolution into coaching or a broader ambassadorial role in sports and social engagements can only enhance the legend that he is. Involvement in training the youth, particularly disadvantaged populations, who are now actively seeking to take the stage, will help rugby maintain its role as a powerful instrument of equal representation and inclusion.

Siya's Legacy

Siya Kolisi’s contribution to South African rugby, and the country in general, is unparalleled. He has led the Springboks to the top of the standings and South African hearts. His guidance has restored the true essence of the love for the sport, altering the entire picture to be one of hope and strength. In Kolisi, South Africa has more than just a rugby team captain; it also has an influential leader who leads beyond the borders of the pitch. Future debates will likely highlight his role, both on and off the field, as one of the most significant aspects of South Africa's journey towards change and reconciliation.

Kolisi is a formidable player and an exceptional leader. he has given this nation hope that heroes can come from the worst circumstances. Most importantly he has shown that he is a winner and that South Africa is at its strongest when they are united.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

The strategic investment in the depth of the DP World Lions men’s team has paid dividends, culminating in a successful defense of their CSA T20 Challenge title. Head coach Russell Domingo expressed his satisfaction with the impressive performances of the team’s newer members during the tournament.

The DP World Lions secured the championship with a commanding eight-wicket victory over the Titans, completing the match with 29 balls to spare. This victory marked a successful campaign for the team, which played nine matches, winning seven. Notably, the squad utilized 17 players throughout the competition, with Connor Esterhuizen, Evan Jones, Delano Potgieter, and Mitchell van Buuren being the only players to feature in all nine games.

Last season’s triumph unfolded over a double round of fixtures with 18 players, including prominent Proteas like Ryan Rickelton, Rassie van der Dussen, and Temba Bavuma, who played pivotal roles. However, this season’s early schedule required the Lions to delve deeper into their resources.

While Rickelton, Hendricks, Van der Dussen, and Mulder all exceeded 200 runs last season, Esterhuizen led the charge this time with 199 runs, closely followed by Hendricks and Van der Dussen, who collectively played in ten matches. Wandile Makwetu also emerged as a key contributor with the bat.

In terms of bowling, Nqaba Peter led last season’s wicket-takers with 20 scalps but was limited to five matches this campaign due to national commitments. His absence opened the door for Bjorn Fortuin (18 wickets), Codi Yusuf (16), and Lutho Sipamla (14) to step up.

Remarkably, the Lions boasted the top two wicket-takers of the entire competition, with Junaid Dawood and Kwena Maphaka both claiming 13 wickets, while Sipamla and Evan Jones combined for an additional 16.

“Every trophy is special, but defending the title with a largely different team is particularly rewarding,” Domingo reflected. “The absence of many Proteas provided opportunities for other players, and I’m thrilled they rose to the occasion. Junaid and Kwena’s performances were outstanding, and Mitch captained effectively in Bjorn’s absence. Connor and Wandile also delivered strong performances.”

Domingo emphasized the importance of learning from every experience, noting that the team’s opening defeat to the Titans served as a wake-up call against complacency. “This competition is fierce, and the boys stepped up when it mattered most,” he stated.

While Domingo initially planned to rotate his seamers, Sipamla seized his opportunity during the finals, achieving remarkable figures of four for 12 at the DP World Wanderers Stadium, the best in CSA T20 Challenge final history. “Lutho’s performance was monumental, especially given his struggles with injuries last season. We aimed for our seamers to play five matches, but Lutho truly excelled when it counted,” Domingo praised.

The coach elaborated on their tactical approach for the final. “We wanted to focus on hitting hard lengths without bowling too full. Our pre-final discussions about tactics were crucial.”

Domingo, reflecting on the game strategy, mentioned, “I tend to favor a more conservative approach at the start. While many prioritize the powerplay, I believe the last six overs can be just as crucial. Our goal was around 40 runs in the powerplay, which has worked for us. We might adjust this next season, but it suited our current group well. We also focused on strong middle-over batting, smart running, and minimizing extras in the field.”

With Domingo’s strategic insight and the team’s depth on display, the DP World Lions have solidified their position as a formidable force in South African cricket
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

It’s not every day that a single moment can change the mood of an entire nation, but today marks the one-year anniversary of the Springboks’ historic victory over the All Blacks in the 2023 Rugby World Cup Final at Stade de France. Even now, I can feel the electric pulse of that day coursing through my veins.

Back in July 2023, I received accreditation to cover the Rugby World Cup—a dream opportunity for any sports journalist. Yet, as August faded into September, uncertainty crept in. Work commitments loomed large, casting shadows of doubt over my ability to attend. Thankfully, the encouragement of friends, mentors, and colleagues rallied me. They reminded me that moments like this are rare and that I would regret missing out while watching from home. They were absolutely right.

What followed was an exhilarating journey through France, chasing the Springboks and All Blacks across every corner of the country. The excitement was palpable as I witnessed the Boks narrowly defeat France in a thrilling quarterfinal, then edge past England by a mere point in the semi-finals. Every match brimmed with history, and I was present to seize every thrilling moment.
I can still vividly recall Siya Kolisi running onto the field in the final. Sitting in the media box, I found myself in awe, questioning, “AM I REALLY HERE? IS THIS EVEN REAL?” The atmosphere crackled with intensity. I will always remember the drama of that match. Sam Cane's red card, the heartbreaking moment for the All-Blacks captain, the controversially ruled out tries, and the sight of Cheslin Kolbe with his shirt over his head, unable to watch the final seven minutes of the game, due to a yellow card. The nerve-wracking final minutes gripped the entire stadium, leaving them unsure of who would emerge victorious. Finally, the sweet sound of the blown whistle signalled the victory for the Springboks. It was not so much a joyous occasion as it was a moment of pure relief.
For South Africans, the Springboks represent far more than a rugby team; they embody resilience, hope, and unity. Being part of that historic moment, surrounded by legends—players, former players, broadcasters, and fellow journalists—was surreal. How often does one get the chance to exchange ideas with legends like Justin Marshall, Jeff Wilson, Sonny Bill Williams, Victor Matfield, and Tim Horan mere minutes before the game? In what other scenario would you share the atmosphere of rugby with icons like Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Dricus Du Plessis, and even Jason Momoa?
Many people held the belief that South Africa should have hosted the Rugby World Cup, accusing France of stealing the hosting rights. Yet this unexpected turn of events offered a unique opportunity: to immerse myself in a vibrant culture, explore breathtaking sights from Paris to the South Coast, and experience the festive atmosphere of a fiercely competitive rugby tournament that may never be replicated.



So, what’s the takeaway from this incredible experience? When opportunity knocks in your life, seize it. It’s far better to have tried and failed than to wonder, “What if?” If you take that risk, you never know what extraordinary experiences await on the other side. The Springboks gave a whole nation joy. They showed what South Africans can do if we stand together, united. They also gave me a memory that will last a lifetime.
Yes, I will be able to say “ I WAS THERE” and that I was part of the fortunate few in the stadium. However, it is almost a moment I missed. As I reflect on the experience, I also think about the opportunities I’ve let slip by in the past. As Nike famously puts it, if you’re unsure, JUST DO IT!

[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

It’s not every day that a single moment can change the mood of an entire nation, but today marks the one-year anniversary of the Springboks’ historic victory over the All Blacks in the 2023 Rugby World Cup Final at Stade de France. Even now, I can feel the electric pulse of that day coursing through my veins.

Back in July 2023, I received accreditation to cover the Rugby World Cup—a dream opportunity for any sports journalist. Yet, as August faded into September, uncertainty crept in. Work commitments loomed large, casting shadows of doubt over my ability to attend. Thankfully, the encouragement of friends, mentors, and colleagues rallied me. They reminded me that moments like this are rare and that I would regret missing out while watching from home. They were absolutely right.

What followed was an exhilarating journey through France, chasing the Springboks and All Blacks across every corner of the country. The excitement was palpable as I witnessed the Boks narrowly defeat France in a thrilling quarterfinal, then edge past England by a mere point in the semi-finals. Every match brimmed with history, and I was present to seize every thrilling moment.

I can still vividly recall Siya Kolisi running onto the field at the final. Sitting in the media box, I found myself in awe, questioning, “AM I REALLY HERE? IS THIS EVEN REAL?” The atmosphere crackled with intensity. I will always remember the drama of the final: Sam Cane's red card, the heartbreaking moment for the All Blacks' captain; the tries that were called back and Cheslin Kolbe's anguishing last seven minutes, with his jersey pulled over his head after receiving a yellow card. The whole stadium was intrigued with those final, nerve-wracking minutes where none of the players on the bench could sit; and finally, the sweet sound of the whistle that declared victory for the Springboks. The Springboks were four time champions. A record.

For South Africans, the Springboks represent far more than a rugby team; they embody resilience, hope, and unity. Being part of that historic moment, surrounded by legends—players, former players, broadcasters, and fellow journalists—was surreal. How often does one get the chance to exchange ideas with legends like Justin Marshall, Jeff Wilson, Sonny Bill Williams, Victor Matfield, and Tim Horan mere minutes before, during and after the game? In what other scenario would you share the atmosphere of rugby with icons like Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Dricus Du Plessis, and even Jason Momoa? Its a setting like no other.

Many people held the belief that South Africa should have hosted the Rugby World Cup, accusing France of stealing the hosting rights. Yet this unexpected turn of events offered a unique opportunity: to immerse myself in a vibrant culture, explore breathtaking sights from Paris to the South Coast, and experience the festive atmosphere of a fiercely competitive rugby tournament that may never be replicated.

So, what’s the takeaway from this incredible experience? When opportunity knocks, seize it. It’s far better to have tried and felt regret than to wonder, “What if?” You never know what extraordinary experiences await on the other side if you take that leap.

Yes, I was present when the Boks lifted the trophy, a privilege that only the fortunate few can enjoy. As I reflect on how blessed I am for these experiences, I also think about the opportunities I’ve let slip by. As Nike famously puts it, if you’re unsure, JUST DO IT!
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]