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SEPTEMBER 4, 2020 • 012-842-0300 Thousands at biker protest Without any permission from authorities, the ‘Stop farm murders’ movement went ahead with its demonstration, which saw crosses and fl owers being placed at the gates of the Union Buildings.

Noxolo Sibiya

Thousands of bikers from across the country gathered outside the Union Buildings, calling for an end to farm murders, gender- based violence and racism on Saturday. Without any permission from authorities, the “Stop farm murders” movement went ahead with its demonstration, which saw crosses and fl owers being placed at the gates of the Union Buildings. “We need to follow through with the rainbow nation and unite against these crimes,” said organiser Tommie Blignaut. Blignaut said he was proud of the bikers who managed to pull the event off in an organised way. He said the event, which saw people from Mpumalanga, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal and Western Cape attend, was a major success. “This is what happens when we hold hands and do something productive. Our voices have certainly been heard.” The group also called for the death penalty Desmond and Rika Hattingh. to be reinstated against those guilty of killing farmers. He said farmers needed to be preserved as Protester Roger Ellis drove from Kempton they were the backbone of the economy. Park to place a cross at the Union Buildings “The people have had enough. We are fed as a way of sending his message. up with all the killings and robberies,” he “We are here to support a very worthy said. course aimed at preserving the lives of our “It’s not even safe to do anything in this farmers,” he said. country anymore. “Authorities handle farm murders like “This used to be a free and normal murders. We need them to be peaceful country, but not anymore. classifi ed separately. There is a specifi c Hundreds of thousands will starve if farmers targeting of farmers and it needs to stop. All are not protected.” lives matter.” A prayer session was held where the Another protester, Vania Nortje, said bikers asked for God’s help in ending farm farmers had no one speaking out for them as murders. they faced death on a daily basis. Police minister Bheki Cele has promised “I don’t agree with the death penalty. I am his department would toughen its stance on not God. But I do think that there is a need farm killings. to protect our farmers. More can be done to During his presentation of the crime prevent the violence against them.” statistics for 2019/2020, Cele said his Protester Desmond Hattingh said the ministry was taking farm killings “very violence in the country led to people living seriously”. in fear of losing their lives and this was VaniaVania andand PierrePierre NortjeNortje “Why would peopleple go and kill people ssoo RogerRoR ger Ellis.Elliss. (Vanderbijlpark).(Vanderbbijlpark)k . “tiring”. brutally and take nothing?”thing?”

What does the community say?

Stephen Moloadi “We are here to support the cause. Farmers are under siege. The death of farmers is the death of the agriculture sector in this country and we cannot allow that to happen. As a biker, it is part of my social responsibility to call for an end to this.”

Gerhard and Haniki Vosloo. “Being here today is to make government aware of the wrongs being done against farmers. The masses here today are just a small part of the community calling for intervention and justice. This is a multiracial cause because everyone is tired of a government that is corrupt and lacks accountability.”

Andre Wasilewski (Secunda) “We need the death penalty to send a strong message to perpetrators. Farmers lives are valuable and their killings must stop.”

Bikers from across the country gathered outside the Union Buildings. 2 NEWS PRETORIA WEST REKORD SEPTEMBER 4, 2020 Metro set to weed out their ‘ghost’ employees Noxolo Sibiya

The Tshwane metro has embarked on an audit and verifi cation process to weed out so-called “ghost” employees, according to head administrator Mpho Nawa. Nawa said its group audit and risk department had fl agged some employees it suspected of being in the employ of the metro through fraudulent means. It also embarked on an audit and verifi cation process of all the Long lines at the metro’s offi ces. Photo: Ron Sibiya employees in a bid to ascertain the exact number of legitimate employees. Nawa said the metro informed its employees and union representatives Tshwane to probe billing issues of its intention to embark on employee verifi cation process. The process started from 14-19 This is despite the metro having said the billing system was in good standing while August. many residents believed otherwise. “The process experienced some technical glitches which led to some legitimate employees not receiving Sinesipho Schrieber respond to this, the metro should improve those who paid their accounts,” Malose their monthly salaries that were its online programmes responding to claimed. supposed to have been paid on The Tshwane metro has announced it will complaints so that we do not have many Another resident, Solomon Mthimunye, Wednesday morning, 26 August. investigate its billing system following people in the same place, a system to who stood in the queue for hours at the “To correct possible mistakes that hundreds of complaints from residents of attend to complaints while people are in the credit control offi ces in Pretoria last Friday, may have crept in during the audit “incorrect” billing. comfort of their homes. said he feared for his health. process, we resolved to extend the Tshwane administrator Mpho Nawa said “The TMPD is also assisting us in trying “I am upset because I am forced to verifi cation process to 25 and 26 the team of administrators had instructed the to keep social distancing.” stand in this line because the metro cut my August,” he said. fi nance department of the metro to probe the This as desperate Pretoria residents electricity already without any warning. This will give the employees a last system. queued at various Tshwane metro municipal “Even though I have underlying diseases I chance to verify their employment “We are looking into the matter, I have offi ces this past week to lodge “incorrect” have to come here to solve the matter so the status. received a lot of complaints from residents billing complaints and avoid cut-offs by the metro can restore my power,” he said. “Throngs of employees heeded complaining of incorrect billing. This led to metro. Former ward 42 councillor and electrical the call in their last-minute ditch to us instructing the department to look into Many said the metro’s “red demand engineer Phillip Nel, who has for years confi rm their employment status.” the system and see if there was anything letters” gave them sleepless nights. analysed the metro’s billing system, said it He said some of the employees wrong,” Nawa said. Resident Deiza Malose believed the was fl awed and needed to be fi xed. whose status had been verifi ed, but “We are defi nitely feeling the pressure, metro was “shifting” its fi nancial burden to “It is not possible that hundreds of people did not receive their salaries in the residents can rest assured that we are residents. cry of incorrect billing and the metro morning, would receive their payment looking into the matter.” “The metro has no money to pay now believes there is nothing wrong with the before midnight. Nawa said the metro was also looking they are billing residents these ridiculous system,” Nel said. The outstanding ones, who presented into developing a better system to facilitate amounts. Tshwane metro is bankrupt, so to “Over the years, the incorrect bills themselves today [Thursday] for billing that could “reduce” billing mistakes. recoup money it disconnected thousands of have been a headache to many families in verifi cation, would be paid through “We did not anticipate that things will get residents’ electricity indiscriminately, even Pretoria.” the ‘special’ salary run scheduled for this bad but we are looking as to what the tomorrow [Friday].” problem might be.” Nawa refuted a claim by the Samwu Nawa said the management would receive labour union that the administrators a report from the fi nance department this What our readers have to say: have unlawfully withheld the salaries week. Contrary to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Elmarie Venn of over 7 000 employees. call in March that there should be no load Yes, we have a billing problem. In March an amount of R50 000 This was “patently false”, he said. shedding/power cuts, the Tshwane metro was added on our electricity bill. I tried to resolve the problem “This verifi cation process was meant under level 2 forged ahead with cutting on e-tshwane, all the previous accounts are available except the for all the people of Tshwane to know power for residents who were in “arrears”. month of March where it says, “Held-Back-Statement”. I emailed that they are paying the salaries of This saw hundreds of residents fl ooding and ask for clarifi cation but to date no feedback. people that are legally on the metro’s to the various metro credit control offi ces payroll. with hardly any social distancing in place. “Sadly, this process has uncovered Nawa said the move to implement cut- Adri Dames-Pillay ghost workers that have been fl eecing offs was to ensure economic restart for the My mother-in-law always pays her bill each month. All of a the people of Tshwane of their hard- metro. sudden she gets an SMS stating she owed R5 000 extra and that earned money by unlawfully, illegally “Yes, the President did announce that at her power will be cut. She tried to go into their offi ces but there and fraudulently drawing salaries they the beginning of the lockdown; however, was zero social distancing and a massive queue. Being 70 she did not deserve.” we must note that as we entered into new turned back home realising this is useless. She is a pensioner Meanwhile, Samwu has called on lockdown levels the resumption of the earning R1 500 a month. They are on very tight budgets and can’t the MEC for Cogta in Gauteng to economy was set in place and this was the aff ord the mess Tshwane administration dumped us in. recall the administrators. same as for the city. It was mainly done to “They have failed in the tasks which ensure revenue collection for the metro so they had been deployed for,” said Tzarene Anne Pereira Grobler we may be able to render services.” Shocking! Wapadrand security estate residents are furious, regional secretary Mpho Tladinyane. On the lack of social distancing at some “Over a period we noted with double bills this month some bills in excess of R40 000. If you of the metro’s credit control offi ces, Nawa query and follow the process, they just cut you off , leaving you serious concern deteriorating labour said the metro had not “anticipated” to have relations regime in the metro.” with no alternative but to pay to get your power reconnected, such a large number at the offi ces. while your query is being “investigated”. “It is quite a sensitive time and I think to

Contact us Publisher Code of Conduct Audit Group Editor: Rekord is owned and published by Capital This newspaper has committed itself to report The distribution of this Sunette Visser / [email protected] Media, 32 Orpen Ave, Lydiana, Pretoria news truthfully and accurately, and to publish ABC newspaper is 0184; and printed by Caxton Printers, a comment that is fair, in accordance with the highest independently audited Tel: 012 842 0300 Business Manager: division of CTP Limited, 16 Wright Street, standards of journalism as set out in the Press to the professional Sabine Goodwin / [email protected] Industria. All rights and the reproduction of Code of South Africa. Complaints that this code standards administrated Address: 32 Orpen Ave all reports, photographs, drawings and all has been breached may be lodged with the offi ce by the Audit Bureau of Lydiana, Pretoria Sales Manager: materials published in this newspaper are of the Press Ombudsman. Written complaints, with Circulations of South 0184 Bianca Pretorius / [email protected] hereby reserved in terms of Section 12 (7) a copy of the report concerned, may be sent to the Africa. of the Copyright Act No 96 of 1978 and press Ombudsman: (Fax) 011 484 3612 or e-mail: Total weekly distribution: Distribution: [email protected] any amendments thereof. [email protected] 20 040 012 335 3760 PRETORIA WEST REKORD SEPTEMBER 4, 2020 NEWS 3 R7.5-million spent on salaries in five months ‘Estimated R44-million spent in Covid-19 tenders thus far, ’ says Cogta MEC Lebogang Maile.

Sinesipho Schrieber Hammanskraal water crisis; if possible, about 20 administrators were needed,” Maile said. About R7.5-million has been spent on salaries On the R44-million spent in Covid-19 for the 10 Tshwane administrators, and tenders in Tshwane thus far, Maile said he Photograph for illustration only. R44-million in Covid-19 tenders thus far, the questioned the metro over the spending provincial government has said. but was at “ease” after the metro reported This comes after DA leader in the the tenders were awarded to about 30 to 50 legislature Solly Msimanga claimed that the companies. 13 Metro cops suspended administrators earned R955 940 each, costing “The number of companies that were the taxpayers around R10-million to date. awarded these tenders suggested there was no Keitumetse Maako 083-657-2998. Of the eight offi cers who During a briefi ng in Johannesburg on the monopoly,” he said. appeared in the Pretoria magistrate’s court, state of municipalities on Wednesday, local “We are also urging municipalities to The 13 Tshwane metro police offi cers six were expected back in the dock on government MEC Lebogang Maile dismissed make the list of Covid-19 tenders available who face charges of corruption have been 28 September, while the other two were due DA claims that the metro had spent to the public as part of a move taken by the suspended. to appear on 13 October. R10-million on administrators’ salaries, governance of transparency.” “They were issued with letters of The offi cers were arrested as part of an saying a “close estimation” was about Maile said with the absence of councillors suspension in the third week of August, ongoing investigation to root out corruption R7.5-million for the past fi ve months. in council it was not a given that there was no pending further investigations,” metro police in various law enforcement agencies by Maile said the amounts paid was within oversight. spokesperson Senior Superintendent Isaac the Road Traffi c Management Corporation the law and “reasonable because of their “We will not hide anything from the public, Mahamba said. (RTMC). qualifi cations”. it’s not in our interest to hide anything.” He said the offi cers, aged between 32 “The arrests follow an 18-month “We appointed 10 competent, skilled On the health of the fi nancial state of and 57, were granted bail after appearing in investigation dubbed Operation Bunny. It and experienced cadres. Some of them do municipalities, Maile said the metro was in court last month. was initiated by the RTMC’s national traffi c not work for the state and their payments “good standing’’ since the administrators took The bail amounts for eight of the offi cers anti-corruption unit. must not be criminalised. The salaries given leadership roles. who appeared in the Pretoria magistrate’s “It comes after members of the public to the administrators speak to their skills, “We have been able to fi x most of the court ranged between R1 500 and R2 000, expressed dissatisfaction with the conduct qualifi cations and expertise they offer to the fi nancial issues which were in a bad state while bail for the fi ve who appeared in the shown by some TMPD offi cers,” said metro. There is no one who has less than a by the DA governance. By the time the Temba magistrate’s court, north of Pretoria, spokesperson Simon Zwane. Master’s degree.” administrators leave the metro, there will be a ranged between R2 000 and R5 000. At the time, Zwane also called on the Maile said the DA was being surplus of about R1.3-billion.” “The TMPD is serious about rooting out Tshwane metro municipality for swift and “mischievous” and described it as an “act of Maile said that he was more worried corruption within its members and these decisive action to be taken against the desperation while being out of power”. over the constitutional court judgement on cases are investigated further,” Mahamba offi cers. “The Tshwane metro has got a lot of the issue of putting the capital city under said, adding that the possibility of more He said that a strong message had to problems, some which the administrators administration, than that of the supreme court arrests could not be ruled out. be sent out that corruption would not were able to solve such as the municipal of appeals, which could see the councillors He also encouraged members of the public be tolerated within the law enforcement benchmarking payments backlog and back at council, should the DA win in court. to come forward and report corruption on fraternity.

17766/4-9-20

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BUTCHERY AND SAUCES 671 Hendriks Str., Hermanstad | 012 383 2169 4 NEWS PRETORIA WEST REKORD SEPTEMBER 4, 2020

Minister Angie Motshekga and Thoko Didiza with the management of Onderstepoort Biological Product (OBP) on the offi cial handover of 10 000 litres of sanitisers for schools . Education dept will not

push back exams date Restaurants are urged to stick to the rules. Sinesipho Schrieber November, gave them that time, as (OBP) which donated 10 000 litres they usually start in October. The of sanitisers worth R1,3-million to The Department of Basic problems we might have would be the department. Education will not push back the anxiety among our learners. That The donation was handed over Complaints stream national certifi cate examination is our biggest threat and not the by the minister of agriculture, land date set for November. time.” reform and rural development Minister Angie Motshekga The exams are due to start on Thoko Didiza. clarifi ed the department’s stand 5 November, while the union Handing over the sanitisers, in over restaurants on the proposed push back of the proposed 26 November, to give the Didiza said as the country examinations by teacher union, matriculants more time to study. continued to fi ght against the Sadtu. Motshekga said the department Covid-19 pandemic, it was not sticking to rules During a press briefi ng on would in two weeks, fi nalise the important for every individual to Monday, at the Onderstepoort process of the appointment of play a part and assist in any way Restaurants are reportedly fl outing Biological Product (OBP) in substitute teachers at schools. possible. Pretoria North Motshekga said the “We have advertised the posts According to the education operating hours during curfew, offering department undertook this move for young, qualifi ed teachers so ministry, the sanitisers would be take-away alcohol and non-adherence. as they believed the matrics had we can have the database for distributed to schools across the ‘enough’ time to recover the lost recruitment. However, we need country. Reitumetse Mahope to trade until 22:00. two months of school closure due two weeks, to identify the gaps. “We aim to ensure that we Several alcohol trading places to lockdown. We need time to fi nalise everything protect the well-being of the The Minister of Tourism has reported sacrifi cing trading “In terms of the dates, we have because we have to be extremely teachers and the learners,” been inundated with complaints hours to avoid employees from worked out carefully how we cautious about how we undertake Motshekga said, adding that so from restaurant-goers, operators possibly serving jail time. would clock back the dates,” she this.” far, 78 teachers had died after and employees over non- They reported having to close said. Motshekga also thanked the contracting Covid-19. compliance with Covid-19 level an hour before 22:00 so that “The matrics have lost two support from organisations and The CEO of OBP Dr Baptiste 2 regulations in the sector. employees did not breach the months, and we have made up for individuals who offered assistance Dungu said: “Together with the Tourism ministry curfew. that time lost. The three weeks of to matriculants just as that of board, we saw it important to spokesperson Hlengiwe Cogta spokesperson Mlungisi June and that of September, and the Pretoria-based company, contribute as a company, and join Nhlabathi-Mokota said Mtshali said the 22:00 curfew with the exams starting only in Onderstepoort Biological Product the fi ght against the disease.” restaurants were reportedly for restaurants was set to allow fl outing operating hours during the restaurant to have enough the curfew, offering take-away time to trade. Free TV initiative to help matrics alcohol and non-adherence to “We must remember we have social distancing or wearing restaurants operating inside Reitumetse Mahope of masks as required by law hotels and others outside. Many among other violations. complained of the time allowed The Department of Education this Mokota said the department for trading. week launched Woza Matrics, a had received numerous “We extended this, but said it free-to-air television initiative complaints from citizens and must not be beyond the curfew; aimed at supporting 2020 matric employees about the situation in they can decide when they will learners disrupted by the Covid-19 some restaurants. close, but it must still be within pandemic. “This does not only risk these the prescribed trading hours as Basic education minister Angie businesses’ licences, but also stipulated. Motshekga launched Woza Matrics endanger the safety of their “The government has no on Tuesday. loyal customers and dedicated intention to keep lockdown Woza Matrics was developed by workers.” any longer; however, this will the department in collaboration Mokota said the minister be guided by our actions as the with the National Education Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane public to act responsibly. Collaboration Trust, the SABC, had on Tuesday, written letters “If there is an improvement Multichoice and eMedia to restaurants insisting and with the rate of infections Investments as well as with a appealing to them for their co- through greater compliance, the number of educational content Photograph for illustration only. operation. government will consider a later providers and other educationalists. “The sector cannot risk curfew. It is in our interest to “While all learners have lost following subjects: maths, life 2020 matric year”. having any of our hard-earned end the lockdown sooner rather school time, this is most acutely sciences, geography, physical Mxakwe said as a public service gains made thus far reversed. than later.” felt by grade 12s where marks are science, accounting, economics, broadcaster, they had a duty This will have devastating According to the regulations, important for career and university math literacy, English fi rst bound to ensure that their content impact on its recovery.” alcohol can also be served by choices,” said Motshekga. additional language, history and included a signifi cant amount of Pubs and restaurants that have licensed establishments such She welcomed the initiative as it business studies. educational programmes. been permitted to sell alcohol as restaurants, bars and taverns would go a long way in assisting Woza Matrics will be MultiChoice Group CEO onsite were also recently daily from 06:00 to 22:00. all learners in matric to prepare for broadcasted on SABC 3 and all for General Entertainment and confused over operating times These establishments can the fi nal examinations which start DSTV packages as well as on Connected Video, Yolisa as their closing time clashes only operate with a maximum in November. Openview (Channel 122) from Phahle, said “the disruption to all with curfew hours. of 50 patrons so long as health The 12-week Woza Matrics 08:00-10:00 and 13:00-15:00 every of our lives as a result of Covid-19 Under level 2, people are not and hygiene protocols were campaign will start on day, 7 days a week. is still yet to be fully realised”. allowed to be out in public from observed, including a 1.5m 1 September. It will also be available for free However, “our responsibility 22:00 until 04:00. distance between the patrons, It will support grade 12 on the DSTV Now Catch-up app. and commitment must be to ensure Under the same regulations, the sanitisation of surfaces, learners in the build-up to their SABC CEO Madoda Mxakwe that we minimise the impact on however, establishments such as the washing of hands and the fi nal matric exams by providing said, “we are pleased to be one of our youth, by empowering them bars and restaurants are allowed wearing of masks. quality educational content in the the key role-players in saving the through knowledge and skills”. PRETORIA WEST REKORD SEPTEMBER 4, 2020 NEWS 5 Emotional memorial service for slain cops Keitumetse Maako ‘We thank you as the families for giving us your children but we failed to protect them.’ A tearful and emotional memorial service was held for the three Tshwane metro police department (TMPD) offi cers who were killed in a head-on collision with a suspected drunk driver at the weekend. The alleged drunk driver was also killed in the collision in the west of Pretoria. Silas Phala, Khathutshelo Mukwewho and Edward Phaduli were all killed as they attempted to give back-up to their colleagues who had unsuccessfully attempted to stop the allegedly drunk driver in the Pretoria CBD during the early hours of Sunday. Chief of the metro police Johanna Nkomo fought back tears during the memorial service which was held at the TMPD headquarters on Wednesday, as she lamented “the hurt to lose three of your children at a go”. “Today, I am unable to speak because the loss is too great.” Despite struggling to hold back her tears, the emotional Nkomo extended thanks to the three families for allowing the three men to become part of the police department. “We thank you as the families for giving us your children but we failed to protect them,” she said. Nkomo encouraged the bereaved families to fi nd solace and comfort in God even though there was no word for parents who had lost their children. “In the aura of God, that’s not how things are supposed to be,” she said, adding that God, however, could not be blamed. Nkomo’s deputy Umashi Dlamini, The accident scene which claimed the lives of three Tshwane metro police offi cers. meanwhile, said the three men served with pride. members of the TMPD after the tragic loss said: “To lose an individual is a tragedy but tragedies which struck their families were “They died with their boots and uniform of the three men so they could continue to to lose three is a disaster.” sad and that it was tough. on. It shows dedication, high-discipline and serve the people of Tshwane. All three of the family representatives The three fallen TMPD offi cers would be pride.” Stephen Podile, who spoke on behalf of who shared the funeral arrangements with laid to rest on Friday, Saturday and Sunday He also called on God to “refresh” the Road Traffi c Management Corporation mourners at the service concurred that the in Limpopo.

17774/4-9-20 The phased return of TUT students runs smoothly

Reitumetse Mahope wearing face masks, regular washing and MENS SHIRT sanitising of hands, as well as maintaining R 90 The Tshwane University of Technology social distancing protocols. 99 (TUT) says the phased return of its senior He said in line with national regulations LADIES DRESS students to residences went smoothly. restricting social gatherings, the curfew at R 90 “Everyone is settling well,” said TUT residences was 22:00. 129 MENS DENIMS deputy vice-chancellor for teaching, “Movement on campus will also be R19990 learning and technology Professor Stanley limited.” Mukhola. He said the phased return of fi rst-year “In line with our revised plans students to residences would commence submitted to the department of higher on 14 September. education and training, students - “Face-to-face teaching for fi rst-year including master’s and doctoral students - students will commence on 21 September, will commence with laboratory work from while multimodal teaching will continue. 7 September.” “An announcement with regards to He said TUT’s bus transport services the return of second-year students will would also start operating on the same be made once the national lockdown has date. been revised to level 1. Face-to-face teaching for fi nal-year “We welcome back our senior students students would kick-off on 14 September. and look forward to reintegrating our BOYS These included third- and fourth-year fi rst-years in September, as well as our CHECK SHIRT professional degree, B Tech, advanced second-year students when the lockdown R7990 diploma and honours students. is adjusted to level 1,” Mukhola said. Mukhola said although the country Last week, TUT warned students GIRLS DRESS was now at level 2 of the risk-adjusted returning to campuses that movement R 90 strategy, adherence to Covid-19 protocols would be limited as the fi rst cohort of 79 and regulations was still critical, including students returned to university residence in accordance with plans approved by the BOYS DENIM higher education department. SHORTS The batch of students consisted of R 90 senior and fi rst-year students to the 99 Pretoria, Ga-Rankuwa and Soshanguve campus residences. TUT vice-chancellor Prof Lourens van Staden, in a communiqué to students, said the phased return would include students studying their post-graduate, BTech, advanced diploma and fi nal-year diplomas LADIES WEDGE R8990 MENS R14990 GIRLS SANDAL R45 BOYS SANDAL R3990 and professional degrees, as well as MULE SNEAKER honours students. “Students living with disabilities and members of the ISRC and CSRCs are also included,” said Van Staden. He said multi-modal teaching and Picture for illustration. learning would continue. 6 PRETORIA WEST REKORD SEPTEMBER 4, 2020

As a player and a coach, Conrad Boshoff has actively been involved with TuksRugby in more than 200 games. Photo: Reg Caldecott Club manager launches new rugby projects When it comes to TuksRugby appreciate any donations. Conrad Boshoff can genuinely “The money is going towards claim to have been there, done providing masks and food that and got the T-shirt to prove it. parcels. It is one of the projects in There are certainly not many which we aim to give back to our who could claim to have played community,” Boshoff explained. for Tuks, coached at Tuks and According to Boshoff, due to now manages the club. His his parents being teachers, he got involvement started way back to grow up next to the side-lines in 2001 as a player. Currently, of various rugby fi elds. During he is the club’s Acting Head of most Saturdays, he would act as Programme & Logistics. the ball boy. Later on, he started “One of the last men standing playing himself. He was not a since 2001,” is how Boshoff too lousy scrumhalf. In 1999 he jokingly refers to himself. represented the Limpopo Blue His passion has not diminished Bulls at the Craven week in one bit. After 19 years Boshoff is George. as committed to Tuks as the fi rst As a player and a coach, day he sidestepped and dummied Boshoff has actively been with a ball in hand wearing the involved with TuksRugby in more coveted striped jersey. than 200 games. Needless to say, His dreams, however, have there had been many highlights. changed. It is not anymore about One of the most special being the best for 80 minutes plus moments to him was when Tuks at a time. Now it is all about what got to win the Varsity Cup for can be done to ensure that Tuks the fi rst time in 2012 beating as a club is the best. Boshoff is, Maties 29-21. The next year however, a realist. He knows it they defended the title thrashing can never be about quick fi xes. Maties in Coetzenburg. The fi nal “To me, the most important score was 44-5. question will always be what can The 2011 Varsity Cup-fi nal was be done to be a better club than also special even though Tuks we were yesterday. The Covid-19 lost at home to UCT. pandemic has undoubtedly made “It was our biggest crowd at things more challenging. I have the time. Some spectators even learned to think on my feet in climbed onto the roof of the these uncertain times. If you athletics stadium. The game was can’t adapt to what is happening, not allowed to start until they you are bound to fail. I don’t were safely ‘grounded’ again,” he want to,” he said. commented. The webinars in which Asked as to who he thinks has TuksRugby has partnered with been one of the all-time greats of SA Rugby Legends is one of TuksRugby since 2001 Boshoff the exciting projects the club is immediately singles out the involved in at the moment. On Springbok lock forward Franco Wednesday Omar Mouneimne Mostert. will have a more in-depth “From the very fi rst time, look into the defensive side of he donned the ‘striped jersey’ the game. He is currently the I could see that he is special. defensive coach for the Bristol Franco does not believe in half Bears. measures. He will put his body The former Springbok Franco on the line time and again if it Smit who now coaches Italy and means it will get his team to Louis Koen a former Springbok win,” Boshoff remarked. fl yhalf presented the fi rst two Asked who he considers being webinars. the hard men of TuksRugby in “The idea with webinars is to his time, Boshoff singled out the assist coaches and players around Cronje brothers, Geo, Jacques the world. It is absolutely free. and Werner. Apparently, you did “We would, however, not want to mess with them. PRETORIA WEST REKORD SEPTEMBER 4, 2020 SPORT 7 Talented swimming bros “Swimming is where dreams Swimming was not always the Olympic legend Michael Phelps is become a reality.” brothers’ fi rst choice when it came 1.93m tall and wears size 14 shoes. This pithy and slightly wilful to sport. Success for Owethu is all about bumper sticker describes precisely “We both started out playing having a balance in life. Every what TuksSwimming’s Mahan football. Although we enjoyed it, time he swims, it is about giving brothers, Owethu and Tumelo, are the reality was that we were not 100%. The grade 10-learner about. Their dream is to be world- that talented,” remarked Owethu, at Pretoria Boys High School beaters in swimming in a few who is the eldest. applies the same dedication when years from now. They are under no The turning point came about studying. illusions that to do so are going to when they went for swimming Tuks swimming coach, Linda take many a long and hard hour in lessons. They took to the new de Jager, predicts Owethu has the the pool. It is a challenge they relish. challenge like a fi sh to water. makings to become a champion. Their dad, Dana, will vouch for There is a good reason why for “Owethu is a late developer. He it that motivation is the one thing now, Owethu favours the freestyle will start coming to his own in his sons certainly don’t lack. events. He seems to be built for two years from now. “Often, my wife and I have it. The 15-year-old is 1.88cm tall “I don’t think he is only to remind our sons that they are and wears size 11 shoes and is still going to excel in the freestyle. children fi rst and conquerors growing. He is improving all the time in second,” he explained. It is interesting to note that the the butterfl y. His biggest asset as a swimmer is his passion and dedication. He has defi nite ideas as to what his goals are,” she said. The 13-year-old Tumelo is currently ranked as the second- best butterfl y swimmer in his age group, and he is included in the South African youth squad. De Jager emphasised that it is essential to ensure there is no pressure on him to be at his best from to a young age. It is no surprise that Tumelo views the legendary athlete Jesse Owens as an inspirational role model. As a swimmer, he admires Chad le Clos. Owethu is a big fan of Michael Lindsay Hanekom in action. Photo: Reg Caldecott Phelps who won eight gold medals at the 2008 Olympic Games. In total, the American had won 28 Olympic medals. Local hurdles champ When the Tuks swimmers are not at school, or at training, they are involved with the youth learns some lessons The brothers Tumelo (left) and Owethu Mahan in the swimming pool at ministry of the Hatfi eld Christian Tuks, where they are coached by Linda de Jager. Photo: Reg Caldecott Church. during the pandemic Breakthrough for woman cricketer The South African 400m-hurdles dipping under 48 seconds. champion, Lindsay Hanekom Another seven ran times faster from TuksAthletics thought than 48.50s. It is exciting times Another local women’s cricketer will soon join seven other South Africans he knew what it is like to to be a hurdler,” he explained. to play in Australia’s professional Women’s Big Bash League. experience the ultimate During last year’s South adrenaline rush. Still, when he African Championships in Nadine de Klerk has described recently got to pull the trigger Germiston Hanekom set a new her fi rst Women’s Big Bash of a rifl e during a hunting personal best when he won League (WBBL) contract as “a expedition on a farm outside the 400m-hurdles in a time of great step in the right direction” Vrede, everything changed. 48.82s. He ended the season for her career after being signed With the sound of the being one of the 20th fastest in up by the Brisbane Heat this week. gunshot still ringing in his ears, the world. The 20-year-old former learner he saw a blesbok ewe going One of the reasons Hanekom from Hoërskool Waterkloof will down. His emotions ran wild. is confi dent about being faster join a strong Momentum Proteas Simultaneously he was feeling next year is because his training contingent in the Australian sad as well as elated. He had partner at Tuks is Sokwakhana competition, which is scheduled killed, but at the same time, he Zazini, a former youth and to be played from 17 October until also experienced the thrill of a junior world champion as well 29 November. hunt. It is a memory during the as a world record holder. Her addition means that South Covid-19 pandemic lockdown “There is a healthy rivalry Africa will have eight members he will treasure forever. between us, but it will never get of its squad featuring in the “I had the privilege to bitter. Firstly we are friends. It sixth edition of the popular T20 compete at the 2016 Olympic only changes that few seconds tournament. Games and last year’s World when we are racing. I want to “I'm very excited to be part of Championships. Getting to beat ‘Socks’ and vice versa. such an amazing opportunity to go play in the WBBL and it’s really a settle in my starting blocks in Whoever wins is the best man on dream come true for me,” she said. front of thousands of spectators the day. For the loser, it is a case “I defi nitely think it’s one of the is the ultimate rush. There is of going back to the ‘drawing best tournaments and I’m excited to nothing that could surpass that, board’,” said Hanekom. play against some of the best in the Nadine de Klerk in action for the Momentum Proteas. Photo: Twitter or so I thought. I was wrong. To The reason he loves racing world and also alongside legends of become a hunter is equally as big against ‘Socks’ is because of his the game,” she said during a recent back in March, de Klerk impressed Stars), Shabnim Ismail (Sydney a thrill if not more,” Hanekom tenacity. He truly wants to be the interview. massively with 3/19 in the game. Thunder), Marizanne Kapp (Sydney commented. best every time he race. She believes it’s a great step in “I think conditions will be good Sixers), Lizelle Lee (Melbourne The Tuks-athlete has, “It is a given that if I can stick the right direction for her career as it always is on Australian soil Renegades), Chloe Tryon (Hobart however, not lost sight of what with him that it is going to be a and that she will defi nitely benefi t and I'm excited to play there. I’ve Hurricanes), Dané van Niekerk really matters. His aim is still fast time. We are in agreement playing along experienced players worked really hard on all aspects (Sydney Sixers) and Laura to establish himself as a world- that the onus is on us to revive and against some of her own of my game and just tried to be the Wolvaardt (Adelaide Strikers). class hurdler. He had a lot of South Africa’s proud legacy in Proteas teammates. best I possibly can,” the all-rounder Their growing presence, time to refl ect on what he needs the 400m-hurdles,” he remarked. “It can only be good for my stated. according to De Klerk, illustrates to do while being “locked down” The challenge is to see who cricket and I think to work with Confi dence is a massive part of just how much the women’s game between four walls during the is going to be fi rst to be faster different people might also help the game and according to De Klerk in South Africa has improved in fi rst few weeks of the Covid-19 than the 47.66s LJ van Zyl ran me, they might just see things she changed the way she think recent years and she is relishing pandemic lockdown. The in 2011 when he set the South differently or come with a different about the game in recent times. coming up against her international “With the right mindset things team-mates. conclusion is simple. African record. perspective that might work in my “I got to become much faster. “It will, however, be foolish favour,” said De Klerk. started falling into place for me With the Covid-19 pandemic The youngster has already played and I’m just really happy that I can having engulfed the world since A ‘high’ 48 seconds is not going to think that next year it is only 20 times in 20-over cricket for contribute to my team in any way March, it also meant that there to cut it in international athletics. going to be about ‘Socks’ and me her country, her most recent being they need me to,” she remarked. was no cricket for De Klerk and Last year we had two athletes in the local races. Experience has in the ICC T20 World Cup semi- The full list of Proteas’ her teammates since then. But she dipping under 47 seconds in taught me never to underestimate fi nal defeat against Australia in representatives at the WBBL are is now looking forward to start the 400m-hurdles with another anyone,” Hanekom concluded. Sydney. Despite losing the game Mignon du Preez (Melbourne playing again. REKORD I N S I BBigig bbreakthroughreakthrough D fforor llocalocal wwomen’somen’s ccricketerricketer PRETORIA WEST REKORD SEPTEMBER 4, 2020 E Challenge supports end to GBV The fi ght to end gender-based violence access to life-changing help. (GBV) has been at the forefront of “SPAR has pledged to take action against conversation this Women’s Month as the gender-based violence by offering tangible Covid-19 lockdown has seen a surge in support to victims on a sustainable basis. cases. SPAR has pledged to take action by I commit myself and my organization to be offering tangible and sustainable support part of working towards a practical solution to victims. The upcoming SPAR Virtual to free our society from all gender-based Women’s Challenge on 26 September is violence,” said Graham O’Connor, CEO, supporting this initiative by donating entry SPAR Group Ltd. fee proceeds to organisations who provide SPAR has partnered with LifeLine and support to victims of GBV. is also supporting many of the country’s SPAR have launched an ongoing care centres. The centres are supported by encourage others campaign aimed at helping to end gender- various SPAR initiatives like the Women’s to do the same – and based violence by using their vast footprint Month ‘Make Change Happen’ bracelets to offer advice, reassurance and media reach to offer GBV victims’ currently being sold in SPAR stores and hope to those who need nationwide. it. There are thousands of The SPAR Virtual Women’s Challenge has people out there who are still extended SPAR’s footprint in supporting the battling the darkness of their fi ght against GBV. For every event entry, experience and could use SPAR will be packing a food parcel for words of encouragement to someone who has experienced GBV. The help them fi nd the light again. food parcels will be distributed with the help Kuter advises that seeking of event partner, the Jacaranda FM Good professional help is crucial. Morning Angels. “Please start talking about The Virtual Challenge campaign is also it, see a professional person, doing its part to bring awareness to the start writing about it, reach out GBV issue. Two of the event ambassadors, to support groups, reach out Philicity Reeken and Leilani Kuter, have to me but please do not walk both experienced GBV and have used the alone with the pain inside you. Virtual Challenge platform to add their Nobody can assure a person voices to the national conversation that their life will be better, and to highlight the fact that South but I personally can assure Africa still has a long way to go you that your life can get in the fi ght to end gender-based better day by day if you violence. take action. There is no “I think we are falling miracle, but you deserve to short in a number of areas. have some wholeness,” she Reporting cases is a nightmare remarked. for women who report them. Police On behalf of SPAR, the investigation is deplorable. Bail is SPAR Virtual Women’s far too low and too easy to get. Rape Challenge race organising apologists are everywhere. Men don’t hold team have extended men accountable and we are still seeing their gratitude to the victim blaming and shaming. Ultimately overwhelming response to the lack of education, poverty and basic the event so far. humanity are just as much to blame,” said For more information Reeken. on the SPAR Virtual With her participation in the Philicity Reeken experienced GBV She also feels that men can do more and Women’s Challenge, campaign, Leilani Kuter, wants to and has used the Virtual Challenge play a pivotal role in this fi ght as well. please visit highlight the fact that South Africa platform to add her voice to the national Both Kuter and Reeken have chosen to www.sparvirtual- still has a long way to go in the conversation about the crisis. share their experiences publicly to help challenge.co.za fi ght to end gender-based violence. Bulls launch an exciting app The Vodacom Bulls have taken another teams in the world and the history behind the major step forward in building their digital Loftus Versfeld stadium. brand with the development of the new The team’s sponsors will also have a Vodacom Bulls App, which was launched on valuable platform of fan engagement through iOS and Android early in July. the new app. Vodacom Bulls fans will now “We’ve all seen, through the Covid-19 #StayConnected closer than ever before to pandemic and lockdown, the growth of the #BullsFamily and experience the pride digital media. Rugby is going to need new and passion of their team at their fi ngertips. ways of connecting with the fans, and the Fans will be able to follow the three-time new Vodacom Bulls App is part of our Vodacom SuperRugby winners with all the strategy to grow our digital presence and latest news, videos, and upcoming events – offer our fans an unrivalled experience both including fi xtures, logs, results, team stats – on and off the fi eld,” said Vodacom Bulls and more, directly on their devices. CEO Edgar Rathbone. The new app will include exclusive Michelle van Eyden, Executive Head content featuring players and coaching staff, of Sponsorship for Vodacom, said: “As a from behind-the-scenes training videos to digitally-led company Vodacom always aims cooking lessons and the highly anticipated to fi nd unique ways for fans to engage with coach Jake’s Column, only available on the their sports heroes. app. “The new Vodacom Bulls App will Fans will also be able to purchase match provide just such an opportunity and will tickets and merchandise from the Vodacom keep the fans connected to their favourite Bulls shop through the app, and those hungry team, especially at a time such as this when for some friendly competition can jump into they cannot be close in a stadium, but can the unique games for a chance to win prizes. still be together in the #BullsFamily.” Bulls fans can now be drawn even deeper into the inner circle of their favourite team by The most passionate fans can dive into the Download the Vodacom Bulls App at downloading the Vodacom Bulls App and following the activities of their team. full history of one of the most iconic rugby www.bullsrugby.co.za