Latest news with #DepartmentofSport
Time Out
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Time Out
A historic comeback: Speed Classic Cape Town returns after 60 years
Motorsport is coming back to the heart of Cape Town this October as the Speed Classic Cape Town takes place on Philip Kgosana Drive. This two-day invitational event celebrates speed, heritage, and craftsmanship. The event, backed by Motorsport South Africa and the City of Cape Town, marks the revival of competitive hillclimb racing in Cape Town – a tradition that began in 1912, with races held on Camps Bay Drive, Signal Hill Road, and Kloof Road. The last known hillclimb on Camps Bay Drive was in 1962. Co-founder Garth Mackintosh explains, "We're not just creating another motorsport event. We're building a celebration of legacy, innovation, and craftsmanship." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Speed Classic Cape Town (@ The event includes two competitions: Classic Car Saturday (25 October): Highlighting vintage cars and classic engineering. King of the Mountain (26 October): Modern performance cars competing over 2.1km of winding road with a 150-meter climb. Attendees can also expect demonstration runs, local food vendors, hospitality lounges, and a range of activities. Event details: Dates: 25 and 26 October 2025 Location: Philip Kgosana Drive, Gardens Good to know: Applications for drivers close on 15 August, with tickets available for purchase from 1 August. Motorsport's Moment in South Africa The return of the Speed Classic isn't just a nostalgic revival, but part of an accelerated focus on local motorsport events to feature on the international racing calendar. Cape Town has already hosted the inaugural Cape Town E‑Prix in 2023 with a high-speed street circuit weaving through the city's Atlantic Seaboard suburbs of Green Point, Granger Bay, and Mouille Point. Most notably, South Africa is in the midst of a high-stakes bid to bring Formula 1 back home for the first time in over three decades. The Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture has tabled its ambitious proposal for a Cape Town street circuit that would run through the inner city and the V&A Waterfront. Meanwhile, Kyalami, the historic circuit near Johannesburg, has received FIA approval for a Grade 1 upgrade - further clearing the path for an F1 comeback. Critics argue that hosting F1 in South Africa is a costly luxury in a country facing pressing socio-economic challenges, with concerns around funding transparency and public benefit. However, Minister Gayton McKenzie stated South Africa "can't afford to host Formula 1." He drew a parallel to the 2010 FIFA World Cup, which showcased the country's ability to successfully host a major global event and left a lasting economic and reputational legacy. He urged critics to consider the fierce competition among nations to remain on the F1 calendar - proof, he said, of the sport's undeniable value. 'It can't be called a world championship if it overlooks an entire continent - especially sub-Saharan Africa,' McKenzie added.
IOL News
5 days ago
- Lifestyle
- IOL News
A day of colour and excitement at the 20th Dundee July event
Models showing off designs at the Dundee July Models braved the cold at the Dundee July A taste of fashion at the Dundee July restore all settings to the default values Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Seek to live, currently behind live restore all settings to the default values Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Seek to live, currently behind live There was fashion and glamour at the annual Dundee July THE coal mining town of Dundee in northern KwaZulu-Natal came alive yesterday for the annual Dundee July, a rural horseracing event. KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Thamsanqa Ntuli, attended the 20th edition of the Dundee July, which was hosted by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture. The gloomy and cold weather conditions failed to dampen the spirits of the horse-racing enthusiasts who came in large numbers to watch the prestigious traditional horse racing event. This popular event was established in 2005 for the purpose of rural, social and skills development for the people who are from previously disadvantaged communities. At yesterday's event there was colour, rhythm and excitement as locals and guests took part in a spectacular street parade. The Dundee July has grown into a flagship event that blends sport, arts, fashion, and traditional heritage, drawing thousands of spectators, stimulating local economies, and providing a platform for emerging creatives and entrepreneurs. It is a space where tradition meets modern vibrancy — a true showcase of the province's richness and diversity.
IOL News
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Sipho Mabuse, and more to honour Abigail Kubheka in one-night-only concert
Yvonne Chaka Chaka is one of the artists that will be performing at the tribute celebration. Image: Bongani Shilubane/African News Agency (ANA) The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, under the banner of the Van Toeka Af Living Legends Recognition Series, will host a powerful tribute concert in honour of Mama Abigail Kubheka, celebrating her 68 years of excellence in the South African music, arts, and cultural industry. Taking place on Friday, July 5, 2025, at 18:00 at the State Theatre in Pretoria, this one-night-only event brings together over 25 legendary performers, all of whom have volunteered their time and talent to celebrate a woman whose voice, presence, and resilience have helped shape South Africa's cultural identity. The concert is directed by Khaya Mahlangu, with performances from celebrated artists such as Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Faith Kekana, Mandisa Dlanga, Khanyo Maphumulo, and Stella Khumalo. Audiences can also look forward to musical contributions from Sipho Mabuse, McCoy Mrubata, Babsy Mlangeni, Stompie Manana, Fana Zulu, and many more, alongside an opening performance by Zenzi Makeba Lee and the Miriam Makeba Band. Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Peace Mabe, will deliver remarks at the event. Speaking to IOL, ahead of the celebration, Mabe explained that honouring Kubeka was not only timely but necessary. 'As we reflect on 30 years of democracy, we must acknowledge those artists who carried the soul of our nation through song, performance, and unwavering resilience during some of our darkest and most hopeful times. 'Mama Abigail represents the bridge between our past and present. In this moment when we are reimagining our future, it is vital to celebrate those who laid the cultural and moral foundations upon which we build.' The celebration forms part of the Department's growing commitment to 'give them flowers while they can still smell them', a central principle of the Van Toeka Af Living Legends Recognition Series, an initiative launched in 2023 to honour individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to South Africa's arts and cultural heritage. Mabe shared that since the series launched, the department has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from artists, cultural institutions and the broader creative community. 'Many have said it restores dignity and gives artists a sense of belonging to a national story. 'Going forward, we envision the programme expanding into other art forms, and digital platforms so that these tributes are not one-night events, but ongoing learning and inspiration tools for the whole country,' said Mabe. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ 🌟 A Night of Legends 🌟 5 July | 18:00 | State Theatre Honouring 68 years of Mama Abigail Kubeka's brilliance! 🎶 Dir. Khaya Mahlangu 🎤 Sipho Mabuse, Vusi Mahlasela, Yvonne Chaka Chaka & more ✨ Zenzi Makeba Lee opens#AbigailKubeka68YearsOfExcellence #LiveAtStateTheatre — SA State Theatre (@sastatetheatre) June 4, 2025 This tribute follows in the footsteps of similar honours bestowed on legends such as Dr John Kani and Dr Tete Mbambisa. By honouring these legends, the department aims to send a message to the current and next generation of creatives that they are seen. 'We value not only your talent, but your contribution to shaping our identity, challenging injustice, and inspiring hope. 'The Department wants young creatives to know that their work matters and that a nation that honours its past creates a fertile ground for its future. We are building a culture where excellence, courage, and authenticity are recognised and celebrated.' The Van Toeka Af Living Legends Recognition Series not only acknowledges an artist's legacy but also provides tangible support through platforms such as the Living Legends Legacy Fraternity Trust (LLLFT). Mabe explained that the Living Legends Legacy Fraternity Trust offers a range of support, including mentorship and masterclass opportunities, as well as wellness and financial assistance initiatives. 'Beyond symbolic recognition, we are committed to ensuring that our legends continue to contribute meaningfully to the sector, while also receiving the care and respect they deserve. 'This includes facilitating partnerships, creating income-generating opportunities, and offering platforms for legends to share their knowledge with the next generation.' The department is working in partnership with broadcasters, museums, and digital heritage platforms to help document, archive, and share the nation's cultural history. 'It's not enough to host an event; we are focused on recording performances, creating educational materials, and making sure these histories are accessible to young South Africans, so that Mama Abigail's legacy and those of other icons live on in classrooms, community halls, and homes.' These recognition events are not only emotional homecomings for the artists being celebrated, but also national moments of reflection on where we've come from, who we are, and the kind of cultural future we wish to build. IOL Entertainment Yvonne Chaka Chaka is one of the artists that will be performing at the tribute celebration. Image: Bongani Shilubane/African News Agency (ANA)
The Citizen
27-06-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
Polokwane Softball Stadium gets R184m boost after years of delays
Polokwane Softball Stadium gets R184m boost after years of delays Quick read Polokwane's long-delayed international softball stadium project is back on track after receiving R184 million in new funding. The funding comes from the Polokwane Municipality and national Department of Sport, boosting the budget after years of stagnation. Since 2019/20, only R69m had been spent, with construction delayed by Covid-19 and the termination of the original contractor in 2022. Rising material costs led to the dismissal of the first contractor; Brunel Engineering was appointed late in 2023. A new completion date of March 2025 has been set, pushed back from the initially promised February 2024. The original budget for the project was R51m in 2020 but has since escalated significantly. Full story below Full story POLOKWANE – After years of delays and cost escalations, the long-awaited international softball stadium is finally back on track, thanks to an additional R184m allocation from both the Polokwane Municipality and the national Department of Sport. The extra funding comes after the initial budget fell short, with only R69m spent on the project since its inception in the 2019/20 financial year. You might also want to read: Future of Polokwane's R90m softball stadium remains a mystery Construction has been plagued by setbacks, including the Covid-19 pandemic and the termination of the original contractor in 2022 due to rising material costs – a move Mayor John Mpe said was necessary to curb excessive expenditure. Brunel Engineering, the new contractor appointed late last year, has since taken over the site and repaired parts of the structure damaged during the extended halt in progress. Sport and recreation manager Mantlako Sebaka confirmed this week that while work on the external areas and practice fields is ongoing, the revised estimated completion date has now been set for March 2025, a year later than initially promised. You might also want to read: Millions more to salvage softball stadium This marks a shift from Sebaka's previous projection of February 2024. The project has come a long way from its original R51m budget when the first contractor was appointed in 2020. The DA had previously supported the call for more funding after only 43% of the work was completed despite 84% of the second-phase budget being depleted. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
eNCA
24-06-2025
- General
- eNCA
Telling our stories in our own languages
JOHANNESBURG - South African authors are getting a chance to tell stories in all of the country's official languages, as well as Braille and the Khoi and San languages. WATCH | Language row erupts during Kouga council meeting The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture's Publishing Hub says the project is a critical intervention towards providing access to information and preserving linguistic heritage. The project has already published 57 works, including the first ever books in Khwedam and Nama languages. Samu-kelisiwe Mfuphi, Project Manager for the DSAC Publishing Hub and National Coordinator for the Academic and Non-Fiction Authors' Association of South Africa spoke to eNCA.
