Events
2014 Midmar Mile winner’s list grows
Howick – Sunday’s action from the 2014 aQuellé Midmar Mile, the 41st edition of the globally renowned open water swim event, got underway in a cloud of action as four more names were added to the 2014 winner’s list in the first two events of the morning.
The girls 13 years and under and women’s 31 years and older race set the tone for yet another memorable day at Midmar Dam as young Tracy-Lea Meyer of Our Lady of Fatima and former Olympian Mandy Loots soared above the rest to clinch the two respective titles.
Tracy-Lea Meyer (Our Lady of Fatima) emerges from the waters of Midmar Dam first in the Girls 13 years and younger category at the 2014 aQuellé Midmar Mile. Photo by: Anthony Grote/Gameplan Media
The boys 13 years and under and men’s 31 years and older showdown then saw Glenwood’s Luke Erwee clinch the younger title while Wade Krieger – returning home after spending the past few years living in Australia – claimed the older category’s spoils.
“I think it’s all my training that helped me a lot, training for long distance, the 800 meters, in the pool,” said Meyer.
“I was really happy and excited to win the race!”
Wade Krieger returned from years in Australia to claim the men’s 31 years and older title at the 2014 aQuellé Midmar Mile. Photo by: Anthony Grote/Gameplan Media
For Loots, an old-hand of the South African pool swimming fraternity, the 2014 event was an opportunity to do something for others with the former Olympic participant opting to tackle all eight of the programme’s races as part of the 8 Mile Club in support of The Pink Drive.
“Coming from being a pool swimmer, this year we have had a lot more waves, so that has been a different experience for me,” explained Loots.
“It has been good fun though and using my swimming for a bigger cause, that’s the bigger thing for me! For so long I swam for myself so it’s nice to get out there and swim for something special and worthwhile.
“Last year was a big surprise when I finished first in my category, so this year I was a bit more nervous about doing it again, but I was happy to get the same result,” she added.
Olympian Mandy Loots, swimming on behalf of The Pink Drive, claimed the women’s 31 years and older category at the 2014 aQuellé Midmar Mile. Photo by: Anthony Grote/Gameplan Media
For young Erwee, the race was far more of a race that it ought to have been after the emerging star mistook 8 Mile Club participant and top female contender Keri-anne Payne for one of his main rivals until the second half of the contest.
“Just after halfway I realised it was Keri-anne Payne on the right of me. I thought it was a swimmer with an orange cap at first but as we came closer together she turned left and I saw the full costume and gold cap and I knew then that it was Keri-anne Payne,” chuckled Erwee afterwards.
“I did relax a bit then but I looked behind me and saw Reece Kincaid. It was a hard race to the end and I just tried to give it my all.
“I’m quite pleased with myself. I had a good swim and I felt great in the water!” he added.
Luke Erwee (Glenwood) clinched victory in the boys 13 years and younger category at the 2014 aQuellé Midmar Mile. Photo by: Anthony Grote/Gameplan Media
Hugs all round! Coenraad Erwee (left) is pleased with his 2014 aQuellé Midmar Mile effort. Photo by: Anthony Grote/Gameplan Media
Krieger, a former top lifesaver on the Australian circuit, returned to South African shores recently and the 2014 Midmar Mile added to his already heightened appreciation of being on home turf once more.
“Ah man, I had such great fun out there today. I am so happy to be amongst South Africans again and to be involved in a great sport,” said Krieger.
“After being in Australia for 10 years, my main focus in every race is to prepare properly and give it my best go and I felt I did that today. Overall it was a really good swim.
“There was a little bit of a chop on the water but the start went off well for me and I just want to compliment the sponsors and the organisation for putting on a great event!” he added.
The day’s early events also saw women’s pioneer Gail Bristow continue her record of having completed each and every Midmar Mile that has been open to female competitors while Martin Godfrey notched up official finish number forty-one.
“It was a bit of a surprise today. I normally try to make the top five every year, but this year was a nice one,” she said shortly after completing her 40th Midmar Mile.
“I think I put in more effort this year, knowing this was a milestone for me, and I thought maybe I should work a little bit harder for it and see how high I could get, which has paid off nicely for me in the end!” she added.
The aQuellé Midmar Mile takes place annually at the Midmar Dam, just outside Howick in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. For more info visit www.midmarmile.co.za
SUMMARY OF RESULTS
2014 aQuellé MIDMAR MILE
Girls 13 years and under
1.Tracy-Lea Meyer 22.33
2.Alice Edward 22.59
3.Asleigh Green 23.23
4.Tayla Sinclair 24.34
5.Erika Esterhuizen 25.01
Women 31 years and older
1.Mandy Loots 24.13
2.Barbara Bowley 25.08
3.Sarah Ferguson 25.09
4.Ellen Hight 25.39
5.Hill Hanass-Hancock 25.40
Boys 13 years and under
1.Luke Erwee 21.46
2.Reece Kincaid 21.51
3.Dylan Cox 22.17
4.Cole Poovan 22.22
5.Dante Norjte 22.44
Men 31 years and older
1.Wade Krieger 21.50
2.Michael Phillips 22.22
3.Gary Albertyn 22.41
4.Brett Clark 23.00
5.Glen Gore 23.10
South African swimming legend Terence Parkin congratulates a brave young finisher, both having used the SaferSwimmer device, at the end of their 2014 aQuellé Midmar Mile. Photo by: Anthony Grote/Gameplan Media
Thousands of swimmers took to the waters of the Midmar Dam as they tackled the 2014 aQuellé Midmar Mile. Photo by: Anthony Grote/Gameplan Media
Author: Tee
The magic of Disney celebrates its return to South Africa with Innovative Technology and Transformative Performances
Disney On Ice returns to South Africa in 2026! Get ready as the magic glides into Pretoria, Cape Town, and Durban, bringing spectacular special effects, cutting-edge technology, breathtaking performances, dazzling costumes, and all your beloved Disney characters and stories!
Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party, produced by Feld Entertainment Inc, is brought to South Africa by leading local promoter, Showtime Management and is proudly presented in association with FNB. The show opens in Pretoria on Sunday, 28 June 2026 at SunBet Arena, Time Square and continues for a limited season ending on Sunday, 05 July 2026.
Thereafter Disney On Ice skates into GrandWest, Cape Town on Saturday, 11 July through Sunday, 19 July 2026. The production then moves to Durban’s International Convention Centre Arena from Friday, 24 July to Sunday, 26 July 2026.
“FNB is proud to once again collaborate with Disney On Ice and Showtime Management to create magical moments that bring families together,” says Nkosana Matyeshana, Marketing Events Lead at FNB. “Our customers are at the heart of everything we do and, as a token of our appreciation for their continued loyalty, we’re offering 20% off Disney On Ice tickets from Wednesday 29 October until Sunday 30 November 2025.”
“The wait will soon be over! We’re thrilled to bring Disney On Ice back to South Africa. This new show celebrates the timeless stories and beloved characters that continue to inspire families everywhere — with more magic, spectacle and heart than ever before,” says Tony Feldman of Showtime Management. “We couldn’t be happier to once again partner with FNB to share the magic with audiences across the country.”
Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party, is an adventure filled with world-class skating, high-flying acrobatics and unexpected stunts! Look for clues in the search for Tinker Bell through immersive, fantastic worlds. Explore the colorful spirit realm of Coco, sail away with Moana as she bravely saves her island, see Belle in the sky as the enchanted chandelier comes to life, and sing-along with Elsa in the icy world of Frozen. Make memories during Aladdin, Toy Story and The Little Mermaid as the search party becomes an all-out celebration!
Embark on a quest with Mickey Mouse and pals as they follow Captain Hook’s treasure map for clues to find Tinker Bell after he attempts to capture her magic. Journey across the Marigold Bridge with Miguel from Disney●Pixar’s Coco into the magnificent and mystical Land of the Dead and discover a vibrantly colorful performance with skeletons atop sway poles dancing over the audience in a beautiful cultural celebration of family.
Travel to the wintry world of Arendelle and sing along with Elsa as video projection creates a kaleidoscope of crystals to help build her ice palace. Witness Belle lift into the sky as the enchanted chandelier comes to life high over the ice. Demonstrate the power of teamwork when Buzz Lightyear, Woody and Jessie recruit the Green Army Men for a daring rescue in Andy’s room. Laugh hysterically as the hilarious pirates flip, tumble, and twist on tumble tracks, stilts and more in an effort to showcase their talents for Captain Hook. Sail away with Moana on her daring voyage across the ocean and bravely encounter the fiery wrath of Te Ka.
Tickets are now on sale for South Africa’s favourite family winter school holiday outing. Book at Ticketmaster.co.za or Showtime.co.za.
Patrons are asked to please note that owing to safety regulations each person, irrespective of age (including babes in arms and children under two years) must have a purchased ticket. Fans are encouraged to only book through Ticketmaster.co.za the official authorised ticketing agent for Disney On Ice. Tickets from third parties will not be honoured.
To discover more about Disney On Ice, log on to www.disneyonice.co.za or visit us on Facebook and YouTube. ENDS
SHOW INFORMATION
TICKETS:
www.ticketmaster.co.za or www.showtime.co.za
Ticket master is the only exclusive ticketing agent for Disney On Ice.
Tickets purchased from any other source will not be valid.
PRETORIA SHOW INFORMATION
VENUE:
SunBet Arena at Time Square, Menlyn Maine
SHOW DATES AND TIMES: Sunday, 28 June to Sunday, 05 July 2026
Sunday 28 June – 10am, 2pm, 6pm
Wednesday, 01 July – 11am, 3pm
Thursday, 02 July – 11am, 3pm
Friday, 03 July – 11am, 3pm
Saturday, 04 July – 10am, 2pm, 6pm
Sunday, 05 July – 10am, 2pm, 6pm
TICKET PRICES:
Weekdays (Wednesday to Friday, Sundays @6pm) – R200, R250, R350, R450 per person inclusive
Weekends (Saturdays all shows and Sundays 10am, 2pm) –R295, R395, R495, R595 per person inclusive
Babes in arms and children under two years sitting on parent’s lap MUST
have a purchased Babes in arms ticket @ R100.00
Children two years and older must have a purchased SEATED ticket
###
CAPE TOWN SHOW INFORMATION
VENUE: Grand Arena, GrandWest
SHOW DATES: Saturday, 11 July to Sunday, 19 July 2026
TIMES:
Saturday, 11 July – 10am, 2pm, 6pm
Sunday, 12 July – 10am, 2pm, 6pm
Thursday, 16 July – 11am, 3pm
Friday, 17 July – 11am, 3pm
Saturday, 18 July – 10am, 2pm, 6pm
Sunday, 19 July – 10am, 2pm, 6pm
TICKET PRICES:
Weekdays (Thursday, Friday, Sundays @6pm) – R200, R250, R350, R450 per person inclusive
Weekends (Saturdays all shows and Sundays 10am, 2pm) –R295, R395, R495, R595 per person inclusive
Babes in arms and children under two years sitting on parent’s lap MUST
have a purchased Babes in arms ticket @ R100.00
Children two years and older must have a purchased SEATED ticket
GROUP BOOKINGS
20% Discount on groups of 20 and more – midweek performances and Sunday 6pm only
Bookings through Jill Somers, 079 218 1658, sales@showtime.co.za
###
DURBAN SHOW INFORMATION
VENUE: Main Arena, Durban International Convention Centre
SHOW DATES AND TIMES: Wednesday, 24 July to Sunday, 26 July 2026
Friday, 24 July – 2pm, 6pm
Saturday, 25 July – 10am, 2pm, 6pm
Sunday, 27 July – 10am, 2pm, 6pm
TICKET PRICES:
All shows – R250, R350, R450, R550 per person inclusive
Babes in arms and children under two years sitting on parent’s lap MUST
have a purchased Babes in arms ticket @ R100.00
Children two years and older must have a purchased SEATED ticket
Author: Shelley
GRAMMY® Award-winning jazz vocalist Gregory Porter’s Durban International Convention Centre show on Saturday 15 November will feature pianist and composer Nduduzo Makhathini and singer-songwriter Omagugu, performing alongside each other.
These celebrated South African musicians have been married for more than a decade, having become friends while playing together earlier in their careers. Both were born and raised in KwaZulu-Natal. Omagugu studied music at the University of KwaZulu Natal, Tshwane University of Technology and later, at the University of Fort Hare where she graduated with in Honours in Music. Similarly, Nduduzo did his undergraduate studies at the University of KwaZulu Natal and later completed both his Masters and PhD studies at the University of Stellenbosch.
Both artists are touring musicians with a significant catalogue of works from their own albums to being featured on many others that mark important moments for the South African jazz archive.
As collaborators Omagugu and Nduduzo have done important festivals such as the Winter Jazz Fest in NY, Avo Session in SW, Mam Jazz in MU and both the Joy of Jazz and the Cape Town International Jazz Festival among many others. The couple has just returned from two European tours this year. They have also had significant highlights such as a collaborative performance with the great DJ Black Coffee at the CTIJF this year, while Nduduzo has received many international awards and recently did his NPR concert.
“Nduduzo is a rare breed, his ancestral connection through music allows safe passage for his audiences – and when with the angelic Omagugu beside him, this experience is heavenly.” says Greg Maloka of GRIZA Enterprises. Fellow Gregory Porter Love is King SA Tour promoter Tony Feldman concurs: “This is a unique opportunity for Durban jazz and music fans. Seeing both South African and international talent of this calibre on the same stage doesn’t happen often – it’s going to be a sensational show.
Gregory Porter’s three-city Love is King South African concert tour also includes Cape Town and Johannesburg.
Don’t miss Gregory Porter live in South Africa in November for five concerts including GrandWest, Cape Town on 12 November; Durban ICC on 15 November and his return to Montecasino, Johannesburg for three engagements on Thursday, 20 November; Friday, 21 November and Saturday, 22 November.
Book now at showtime.co.za or Ticketmaster.co.za. Tickets purchased via unauthorised websites will not be honoured
Author: Shelley
Experience Champagne Classics: A Weekend of Sublime Music in the Drakensberg
Event Details
Dates: Thursday 26 February – Sunday 1 March 2026
Venue: Champagne Sports Resort, Central Drakensberg
Check-in: Thursday afternoon (26 February)
Check-out: Sunday morning (1 March)
Costs: To be confirmed – you will be notified once full cost details are available.
Register your interest by contacting Kim at kim@montybrett.com or on 082 824 9378.
Escape to the heart of the Drakensberg for Champagne Classics, a three-night weekend celebrating timeless music, exquisite cuisine, and breathtaking scenery.
Set against the magnificent backdrop of the Champagne Sports Resort in the Central Drakensberg, this annual event brings together classical music lovers for an unforgettable experience of culture and relaxation.
What’s Included
~ Three nights’ accommodation in twin or double rooms
~ All buffet meals at the resort restaurant
~ Morning and afternoon teas with sweet and savoury treats
~ Three evening concerts and two midday recitals
~ A pre-concert talk with Dr Richard Cock
~ A fun, ice-breaker quiz
~ Gratuities for the hotel staff
What’s Not Included
~ Transport to and from Champagne Sports Resort
~ Drinks and bar purchases
~ Personal items, such as laundry or room service
A Symphony of Talent
During the midday and evening concerts, the Johannesburg Festival Orchestra performs under the baton of Dr Richard Cock. Audiences can enjoy works by legendary composers such as Mozart, Haydn, Schubert, and JC Bach.
Dr Cock’s lively conducting style and musical insight bring these masterpieces to life. Each concert promises to move, inspire, and delight audiences of all ages.
Champagne Sports Resort
A Setting Like No Other
Late February is one of the best times to visit the Drakensberg. The mountains are green, the air is crisp, and the views are breathtaking. Guests will enjoy elegant accommodation and a wide range of leisure options.
You can play a round on the championship golf course, unwind at the spa, or simply relax with a drink while soaking in the mountain scenery. Between concerts, explore the surrounding trails or enjoy quiet moments on the resort’s terraces.
Exceptional Dining
Every meal is served in the resort’s famous buffet restaurant. The menu features an impressive selection of dishes, including options for vegan, vegetarian, and special diets. Morning and afternoon teas come with the chef’s homemade treats, ensuring every meal feels like an occasion.
Book Your Place
Spaces for Champagne Classics 2026 are limited, so early registration is encouraged.
Final pricing will be confirmed soon. In the meantime, you can register your interest by contacting Kim at kim@montybrett.com or on 082 824 9378.
Author: mrjoelmagic
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