Latest news with #Springboks'
IOL News
3 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
Race Coast, the answer to the evolving dynamics of South African horse racing
Race Coast Caption: Lock Eben Etzebeth, the Springboks' most capped player, and who currently plays for the Sharks, was among the luminaries to attend the official launch of the Race Coast brand in Durban. In an industry that has seen its fair share of ups and downs, Race Coast emerges as a beacon of hope, promising to reshape the future of horse racing in South Africa. The evolving dynamics of this venerable sport, threatened by dwindling interest and economic challenges, find new life in a platform designed to modernise the betting environment and engage new audiences. The Race Coast brand, a revitalised initiative, marries the operations of Gold Circle in KwaZulu-Natal with Cape Racing of the Western Cape under the Hollywoodbets umbrella. It aims to bring a fresh vibrancy to the racing scene and mark a pivotal moment in South Africa's equestrian history. Race Coast will embrace modernisation with an emphasis on integrity, preserving the rich traditions of a sport that has captivated audiences for over a century. The newly established brand has committed itself to sparking renewed interest in horse racing, aiming to attract a diverse audience and inspire a passion for the sport across all demographics. Devin Heffer, Brand & Communications Manager for the Hollywood Group, expressed an infectious enthusiasm during his address to the assembled crowd on Friday: 'What a vibe! It is so encouraging to feel that this is the game-changer that everybody has been crying out for.' He continued to outline the ambitious goals of Race Coast: 'We are thus determined to raise the bar with world-class professionalism, performance, and prestige. That doesn't happen overnight, but it starts with the basics of safety, fairness, and quality.' There is a socio-economic dimension to this initiative that cannot be overlooked. Horse racing creates jobs and generates commercial opportunities, significantly contributing to local economies and fuelling tourism. By harnessing this potential, Race Coast aims to ensure sustainable growth in the industry while fostering community engagement. Operations are already underway, with innovative policies being implemented to uphold the modernisation efforts. Heffer highlighted that Race Coast possesses 'the structure, foundation, and human capital' necessary to usher in an era where horse racing holds universal appeal. 'Simply put, it's a bolder, fresher, and more inclusive approach than ever, and we're determined and equipped to focus on rebuilding the trust, excitement, and excellence from the ground up,' he stated. As Race Coast sets its sights on redefining the South African horse racing landscape, the fusion of tradition and modernity stands at the forefront of their vision. This bold initiative is not merely about racetracks; it is an extensive movement aimed at reinforcing horse racing as a pillar of the country's cultural identity. With a rich history deeply rooted in South Africa, horse racing has always been more than just a sport; it's a celebration, a community event, and a source of local pride. However, as times change, so too must the frameworks that uphold these beloved traditions. The commitment by Race Coast to elevate the sport into a new epoch of engagement, excitement, and high standards paints an optimistic picture for the future.
The South African
22-05-2025
- Sport
- The South African
When is the next Rugby World Cup draw?
The Springboks' planning for their World Cup title defence in 2027 is already well under way, with South Africa currently enjoying a healthy rankings gap of 2.42 points ahead of second-placed New Zealand, while they are 2.95 points clear of third-placed Ireland. Maintaining a position of strength will be more important than ever by the time this season comes to an end. The draw for the expanded 24-team 2027 World Cup is set to take place in December, and so the rankings then will be used to determine the top seeds for the draw. It's already been confirmed that next Rugby World Cup will feature 24 teams in an expanded format, with all qualifiers taking place in 2025 as teams worldwide compete in a series of regional qualifiers, each striving to secure one of the 12 available places. For the first time in the in the professional era, the men's pool draw will take place with all 24 participating teams confirmed. Scheduled for December 2025, the draw will be based on the World Rugby Men's Rankings at the end of the November international window. This approach ensures a more accurate and up-to-date seeding process and adds significant weight to every international test match played in the remainder of the calendar year. World Rugby Chair Brett Robinson said: 'As we head towards the most inclusive and globally representative tournament ever, with 24 teams competing in an expanded format and at least one nation from each of our regional associations, this final step on the 'Journey to Australia 2027' will be a celebration of ambition, resilience and the global spirit of rugby. 'We cannot wait to see which team earns the final place and joins us for what promises to be a unique celebration of rugby and Australia in 2027.' Rugby World Cup 2027 will be the first edition to feature an expanded format with 24 teams, a new round of 16 and increasing the number of matches to 52. 28 June: vs Barbarians, DHL Stadium, Cape Town. Kick off: 17:05. 5 July: vs Italy, Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria. Kick off: 17:10. 12 July: vs Italy, Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Gqeberha. Kick off: 17:10. 19 July: vs Georgia, Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit. Kick off: 17:10. 16 August: vs Australia, Ellis Park, Johannesburg. Kick off: 17:10. 23 August: vs Australia, DHL Stadium, Cape Town. Kick off: 17:10. 6 September: vs New Zealand, Auckland. Kick off: 09:05. 13 September: vs New Zealand, Wellington. Kick off: 09:05. 27 September: vs Argentina, Kings Park, Durban. Kick off: 17:10. 4 October: vs Argentina, London. Kick off: 15:00. 8 November: vs France, Paris. Kick off: TBD. 15 November: vs Italy, Turin. Kick off: TBD. 22 November: vs Ireland, Dublin. Kick off: 19:40. 29 November: vs Wales, Cardiff. Kick off: 17:10. *SA Rugby are working on adding two more Tests for the Springboks, likely to be against Japan and Portug Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news. Meanwhile, here is an important reminder on ticket sales for the Springbok men's game against Argentina in the Rugby Championship at Twickenham in October. Ticket sales Tickets are on sale via and England Rugby, starting from just £55* for adults and £28* for Under-16s. (*booking fees apply)
IOL News
20-05-2025
- Sport
- IOL News
UCT student Ntokozo Makhaza makes history with Springboks alignment camp selection
University of Cape Town student and rugby sensation Ntokozo Makhaza has made headlines by being selected for the Springboks' alignment camp, marking a significant milestone in his sporting career while still pursuing his degree. Image: supplied University of Cape Town (UCT) student and rugby star Ntokozo Makhaza has been selected for the Springboks' alignment camp, a rare feat for a non-professional player still completing his degree. The 23-year-old has made history and a landmark for the university with this sporting achievement. "I'm doing a Bachelor of Social Science, majoring in Psychology and Social Development. I have one more course in the 2nd Semester to complete my degree. So if all goes well I should be completing my studies at the end of this year and graduating next year," said Makhaza when asked by Cape Argus. According to UCT, the call-up places Makhaza among the country's top 54 players considered for national selection. Makhaza was born in Harrismith in the Free State, and grew up playing soccer, but switched to rugby in primary school, quickly falling in love with the sport. He was inspired by smaller, strategic players such as Patrick Lambie and quickly found his place on the field as a fast, intelligent backline player. 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 ✕ Makhaza said he is focused on the opportunity of being selected for the Springbok alignment camp and was surprised when he learnt that he was chosen. 'I actually thought they were just reaching out to congratulate me on the Varsity Cup season. It didn't sink in until I saw the official announcement on the Springboks' social media page,' said Makhaza. 'I was very surprised that I'm part of the camp. A bit nervous, but excited. I'm just happy and motivated to see that people are watching and monitoring varsity rugby. It inspired me to believe more that the dreams I have are possible.' The university said the Springbok invitation is the latest milestone in what has already been a standout year for Makhaza. He dominated the 2025 Varsity Cup, guiding the UCT Ikey Tigers to victory and earning both Player of the Year and Backline Player of the Year honours for the second consecutive year. 'If anyone would say I would be part of the Springbok alignment camp a few years back or even at the beginning of this year I would have looked at them and laughed. To me it's an honour and I'm privileged and humbled. 'To be in the camp is an awesome opportunity of learning for me. The main goal is to learn and absorb as much as I can so that when I join the Cheetahs I'm better than when I was here at UCT." Makhaza said his success was also due to the university's support structures and inclusive culture for helping him grow as an athlete and a student. He scored 32 points in the Varsity Cup final against Stellenbosch University, leading UCT to the championship and finishing the season with 155 points. Makhaza will take the next step in his career by joining the Free State Cheetahs for the upcoming Currie Cup season in July which he sees as a professional opportunity and a return home. Mark Bashe, manager of UCT Sport and Recreation, described Makhaza's selection as 'a historic moment for UCT and for university sport in South Africa.' 'This achievement proves that when a student athlete performs at an exceptional level, they are not only recognised by our own coaches and provincial selectors but also by national coaches. It's virtually unheard of for a player to be invited to a Springbok alignment camp without first playing for a professional team,' Bashe said. Cape Argus
IOL News
19-05-2025
- Sport
- IOL News
UCT rugby sensation Ntokozo Makhaza shocked by Boks alignment camp call up
UCT student and rugby sensation Ntokozo Makhaza has been selected for the Springboks' latest alignment camp. Image: Lerato Maduna BEING selected for the Springboks' latest alignment camp was the last thing on University of Cape Town (UCT) student and rugby sensation Ntokozo Makhaza's mind. After all, the 23-year-old has not yet signed to a professional franchise and is still completing his degree. It's his performances during the recent FNB Varsity Cup that not only saw his Ikey Tigers side clinching the title, but earned him a spot in the country's top 54 players considered for national selection. 'I actually thought they were just reaching out to congratulate me on the Varsity Cup season. It didn't sink in until I saw the official announcement on the Springboks' social media page. I was very surprised that I'm part of the camp; a bit nervous, but excited. I'm just happy and motivated to see that people are watching and monitoring varsity rugby. It inspired me to believe more that the dreams I have are possible.' The Springbok invitation is the latest milestone in what has already been a standout year for Makhaza. He dominated the 2025 Varsity Cup, guiding the UCT Ikey Tigers to victory and earning both Player of the Year and Backline Player of the Year honours – for the second consecutive year. Born in Harrismith in the Free State, Makhaza grew up playing soccer, but switched to rugby in primary school, quickly falling in love with the sport. Inspired by smaller, strategic players like Patrick Lambie, he found his place on the field as a fast, intelligent backline player. He said he is focused on absorbing everything he can during the Springbok alignment camp. 'If anyone would say I would be part of the Springbok aligning camp a few years back or even at the beginning of this year I would have looked at them and laughed. To me it's an honour and I'm privileged and humbled. I think it's been created by the coaches and players because of the opportunity and platform they gave me. I'm humbled and excited for the opportunity. 'To be in the camp is an awesome opportunity of learning for me. The main goal is to learn and absorb as much as I can so that when I join the Cheetahs I'm better than when I was here at UCT. I'm always looking to improve and get better, and I know the camp will provide me with a lot of detail and I will find a lot of growth there.' In July 2025, Makhaza will take the next step in his career by joining the Free State Cheetahs for the upcoming Currie Cup season – a move he sees as both a professional opportunity and a return home. 'They're giving youngsters a chance, and I want to make the most of that. It's about learning, growing and giving my best.' Cape Times
The South African
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The South African
Cornal Hendricks' best buddy: Springboks wing left fans in tears
Springboks wing Willie le Roux left fans in tears with his Instagram post wishing Cornal Hendricks rest in peace. Willie and Cornal had been close buddies on and off the pitch during their days with the Springboks. Indeed, it's been a few tough days for Willie after losing his friend on 14 May. Many Springboks' current players and legends bid farewell, but Willie took his time. Cornal Hendricks and Willie le Roux. Image via Instagram @wjjleroux Even though Willie did not have many words upon his friend's death, fans could feel his emotions. 'RIP my vriend ❤️🕊️ @cornalhendricks' Hendricks said. Some remembered their days as the best of buddies, and they couldn't help but try to console him. @R I A A N V A N W Y K 'What a great combo you guys were! 😢' @Jerid-lee Waries 'You too were so close friends, what a special guy, forever in our hearts' @Amanda 'Ai, Willie, it's so sad 😢 Treasure all those awesome memories❤️' @Lindy White 'Willie, it's so hard for those left behind. You have the best memories of a superb human being and friend. I offer my sincere condolences. 😢Cornal is at peace.' Indeed, it was not only Willie le Roux who went emotional about Cornal Hendricks's death, but Bryan Habana as well. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Willie Le Roux (@wjjleroux) Unlike the Springboks wing, Willie le Roux, Habana penned a long, heartfelt letter. 'Still struggling to find the words or come to terms with this. Heartbroken to wake up to news that still seems unreal,' he started. 'A true warrior on the field, but an even bigger inspiration off it. When he entered, his energy lit up the room, and his zest for life was infectious.' Habana continued. 'Cornal's journey reminds us all that resilience isn't just a trait, it's a way of life. From setbacks to stunning comebacks, from humble beginnings to the world's biggest stage. Every team he represented, he did so with pride, passion, purpose and an unwavering desire to contribute positively.' Bryan continued pouring his heart. He continued with his letter, consoling the Hendricks family in these difficult times. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
