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Top Gear Festival Returns – Front row of world class street racing

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The Top Gear Festival – powered by Shell V-Power in ‘the warmest place to be’ is expected to attract tens of thousands of petrolheads keen to see the most anticipated line-up of motoring entertainment in Durban.

You’ve seen the highest class of international open-wheeled auto racing on TV. Now prepare to smell the rubber first hand as come June 15-16, 2013, the Moses Mabhida Stadium and Top Gear Festival Street Circuit will be transformed into a Top Gear fan’s nirvana.

This year Street Circuit drivers from Motor Sport SA (MSA) and the Franschhoek Motor Museum (FMM) will need to put their skills to the test as they race around the newly-updated track layout.

The enhanced 2.8km Street Circuit show will be presented by popular and respected Sasha Martinengo and Gugu O’ Zulu.

Visitors can expect two days of sensational driving, as the Street Circuit features a number of daring events and skills to match.

1)      THE STIG

The king of the track, The Stig, will lay down the law as he screeches through the Street Circuit in the country’s fastest, most enhanced track-day vehicles, setting the fastest times throughout the show.

 

2)      HOT HATCH GRUDGE MATCH

Get behind your favourite hot hatch back cars, driven by international pro race drivers, as they go head to head to lap each other in five races, in an attempt to set the fastest lap.

 

3)      RALLY CARS GRUDGE MATCH

For the first time catch the Red Bull Toyota Dakar car, driven by our very own Geniel de Villiers, who will take on a special individual rally stage in a point to point timed  event. Vehicles and drivers will face handbrake turns as they display masterful manoeuvring at the new hairpin and chicane in the course.

 

4)      RUGBY HOT RODS GUDGE MATCH

A gem to be seen, this year eight Hot Rods, courtesy of the National Hot Rods Series based in Richards Bay, will race five laps in the name of South Africa’s eight Super Rugby teams. They will try to outdo each other as they race to predict who will win this year’s Super Rugby Challenge.

 

5)      TANDEM DRIFTING GRUDGE MATCH

Also taking to the new course and streets for the first time, watch the country’s top drifters go head to head drifting, as they lead the crowds in their favour while taking turn to be the lead car and the chasing car.

Other highlights will also include world famous presenters; guest drivers including two-time Formula One World Champion Mika Häkkinen, who will later be interviewed live on stage in the Ultimate Village along with a number of legends and celebrities all in action.

The show will round off with the Franschhoek Motor Museum’s impressive display, as they celebrate the 90th Anniversary of the Le Mans 24 Hours by showcasing an impressive procession of 14 iconic race cars spanning from the 1930’s to present day.

The Festival, which takes place on a long weekend in Durban, promises to be full of the Top Gear trademark special effects, smashes and customised cars.

Also debuting will be an all-new Top Gear Live Stadium Show featuring Top Gear presenters Jeremy Clarkson; James May and  The Stig.

With over7000sqm of exhibition space in the Motoring Pavilion, visitors are encouraged to book early so as not to miss the most awaited event on this year’s entertainment and motoring calendar.

Avariety of unique packages have been carefully designed to suit every fan’s needs.

Premium packages, include, the Ultimate Package to the Ultimate Village and the DStv Supreme tickets, offering guests exclusive access into the designated areas and a thrilling view of the Street Circuit.

CLICK HERE for ticket package information

For travelling Top Gear enthusiasts and guests, there is a full range of travel packages, from self-drive packages and luxury coach packages to flight packages, which include travel, and accommodation on a B&B basis in a Tsogo Sun 3 star or 4 star Hotel.

For more information on travel  packages CLICK HERE 

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Events

FREE Family Day at Hollywoodbets Greyville

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Champions Season Kicks Off in Style with a FREE Family Day at Hollywoodbets Greyville

The highly anticipated Champions Season bursts into action on Saturday, 11 April at Hollywoodbets Greyville, setting the tone for South Africa’s premier racing calendar with a vibrant day of top-class racing, entertainment, and family-friendly fun — all completely FREE to attend.

Gates open at 10:00am, inviting racegoers, families, and first-time visitors alike to experience the thrill of the sport in an accessible and festive environment.

At the heart of the day’s racing programme is the Race Coast Sales Big Cap, a R5 million feature that continues to grow in stature following its successful debut and is fast establishing itself as one of the most innovative contests in South African racing.

Run over 1400m, the Big Cap brings together an elite mix of top-class horses and influential slot holders, where strategy and strength play an equally decisive role. The 2025 debut delivered a high-quality and competitive spectacle, showcasing the tactical depth of the slot race concept and setting a strong benchmark for the future.

That foundation adds an extra layer of intrigue to the 2026 renewal, with connections returning more experienced and strategically aware. The contest features a compelling clash of power and depth, headlined by the highest-rated runner in the field, alongside formidable operations such as Snaith Racing. Key slot holders including the Wernars Family, Rikesh Sewgoolam, Ralphs Racing and Peter Moor add further competitiveness, underlining the race’s growing industry significance.

With a substantial stake on offer, R5 million in total, including R3 million to the winner, and increasing attention from across the sport, this is no ordinary race and continues to attract serious investment and participation.

Adding to the excitement is the Race Coast Sales Slipper, a standout juvenile contest run over 1200m with a lucrative R3 million incentive. Together, the Big Cap (R5 million) and Slipper (R3 million) offer a combined R8 million in feature race prize money on the day. Positioned at a key point in the season and staged in KwaZulu-Natal, the Slipper has become increasingly competitive, with top juveniles lining up to contest the rich prize.

The combination of timing, location, and significant stakes ensures that owners and trainers target the race early, aiming to secure a share of the substantial purse. With each running, the quality and depth of the field continues to improve, offering racing fans a glimpse of the next generation of stars.

Beyond the track, the day promises a lively social atmosphere with a mix of entertainment, activations, and relaxed outdoor enjoyment. Whether you’re a seasoned racing enthusiast or simply looking for a great day out in Durban, the opening event delivers something for everyone.

“Champions Season is about more than just elite racing — it’s about creating an inclusive, energetic experience that brings people together,” said Race Coast KZN Acting COO, Dean Sawarjith. “Starting the season with a free, open-to-all event at Hollywoodbets Greyville reflects that spirit perfectly.”

With warm autumn weather, world-class racing, and a welcoming environment, 11 April is set to be the perfect introduction to the excitement of Champions Season.

Carla Wynne
Author: Carla Wynne

Just a 30something plant mom, nature enthusiast and happy wife, adventuring through Durbs and life!🌻🌿🤍✨

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Entertainment

Your Next Blu Blood Experience Awaits

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Durban’s entertainment scene is turning up the heat over the next few months, with a line-up of live shows set to bring music, laughter and big-stage energy to the city. From internationally loved performers to homegrown comedic talent, local audiences can look forward to a vibrant mix of events across some of Durban’s popular venues.

Kicking things off is Atif Aslam, who takes to the stage at the Durban ICC on 27 March, bringing his much-loved hits to what promises to be a memorable night for fans. BUY TICKETS HERE

Comedy lovers can then get ready for an evening of sharp wit and relatable humour when Joey Rasdien performs at the iZulu Theatre at Sibaya Casino on 4 April. BUY TICKETS HERE

Rounding off the line-up is Zack Knight, set to perform at Suncoast Casino on 9 May, offering Durban audiences a chance to enjoy one of the most recognisable contemporary voices in the South Asian music space. BUY TICKETS HERE

With a mix of powerhouse music performances and laugh-out-loud comedy on the calendar, these upcoming shows are set to add plenty of excitement to Durban’s social scene. Whether you’re planning a night out with friends, a date night, or simply looking for your next live entertainment experience, this line-up offers something worth stepping out for.

Carla Wynne
Author: Carla Wynne

Just a 30something plant mom, nature enthusiast and happy wife, adventuring through Durbs and life!🌻🌿🤍✨

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Art

BUMP & GRIND – Back By Popular Demand

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Back by popular demand, Durban comedy favourites Aaron McIlroy and Lisa Bobbert-McIlroy return to the Northlands Bowling Club, in Durban North for audiences who missed the show the first time around.

Expect old favourite characters and a soundtrack packed with thumping hits as McIlroy and Bobbert once again deliver their trademark blend of side-splitting humour, larger-than-life personalities, and musical mayhem!

Some characters to expect; Bruce and Charmaine as unforgettable Elvis impersonators, Dot and Max settling into the chaos of retirement village life, and everyone’s favourite philosopher of the people, Dr Veejay, offering his “words of wisdom.” Add in a host of hilarious new faces, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a fun night out!

Directed and choreographed by the sensational Daisy Spencer, Bump and Grind promises to keep audiences on their feet — or rolling in the aisles — with laughter, music, and McIlroy & Bobbert’s unbeatable comic chemistry.

Whether you’re seeing it for the first time or coming back for more, this is a musical comedy experience not to be missed.

Other Info to Note:

  • Picnic baskets welcome
  • Food and Drink on sale at the venue
  • Full bar available (no alcohol may be brought onto the premises)
  • Limited secure parking available
  • All seats are allocated by the theatre management
  • Tables seat 8
  • Wheelchair friendly venue – contact 082 499 8636 to make arrangements

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Carla Wynne
Author: Carla Wynne

Just a 30something plant mom, nature enthusiast and happy wife, adventuring through Durbs and life!🌻🌿🤍✨

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