Events

Local Beyrick De Vries Wins 2nd Quiksilver Surf Event in Durban.

Published

11 years ago

1 June 2015

Durbanite

Umhlanga, Durban – Local surfer, Beyrick De Vries surfed his way to victory this weekend in the premier open men’s division at the second of three Quiksilver Get Free events. Over seventy of South Africa’s top competitive surfers were greeted with solid 4 to 5 foot groundswell for the final day of competition at Bronze Beach, Umhlanga.

De Vries was a clear standout and looked very comfortable in every one of his heats throughout the two-day event at his local surf break. De Vries’ power surfing combined with his impressive air game proved too good for his competitors and clinched the title ahead of Capetonian, Michael February who placed second, Dale Staples of Westbrook in third place and Brandon Jackson also of Durban in fourth place.

“It was so nice to win at my home break. I just got back from Los Angeles so have been a bit jet-lagged but really stoked with the win, thank god there were waves, Bronze was cooking today” said Beyrick. Day one of the event was called early due to the small swell and a rising tide. The last four heats of the Open Mens division were moved to day two, which produced near perfect competition conditions. “I’d like to thank all the local guys and my sponsors for all the support” a smiling De Vries added, taking home R8000, a top of the range Drift Innovation action camera, Skullcandy headphones and some stylish Neff gear.

In the U20 junior boys division it was firm favourite, Shane Sykes of Salt Rock who stole the show winning a cool R4000. J-Bay’s Dylan Lightfoot placed a respectable 2^nd while Matt McGillivray also of Jeffrey’s Bay was relegated to 3rd place. McGillivray who is back from a recent injury showed good form to find himself a podium finish, while Wade Simkiss from Umdloti finished in fourth position.

Berea, Durban’s Sebastian Williams took the win in the U16 division. Williams stamped his authority and claimed the title ahead of Ethan Fletcher (Kommetjie), Jake Elkington (Hout Bay) and Adin Masencamp (Strand).

Event sponsors, Quiksilver were very happy with the second event of the series, “We could have not asked for a better two days of surfing from a world class beach break with South Africa’s best surfers. Even though the first day of competition lacked swell and was difficult for the competitors, all competitors were not disappointed on the final day and nether were the spectators. With high explosive surfing in 4-5 foot clean conditions, we were very proud of this event and thank everyone that took part in making it happen. ” said Quiksilver Team Rider and Event co-ordinator, Brandon Jackson.

The next and final stop of the Surfing South Africa 3A rated event series will take place in Port Alfred on the 29th and 30th of August and will be the final show down of SA’s top surfers.

Supporting sponsors to the series include Techniblock sunscreen, Drift action camera’s, Skullcandy, Zigzag Surfing Magazine, Neff and RedBull. The Quiksilver Get Free Series offers a total of R108 000 in prize money as well as generous product prizes for competing surfers.

For more information, videos and photos of the series go to www.quiksilver.co.za/getfree.

Author: Durbanite

Related Topics:2015 Beyrick De Vries Contest durban Get Free Quiksilver Surf umhlanga

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Events

FREE Family Day at Hollywoodbets Greyville

Published

1 week ago

9 April 2026

Carla Wynne

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.

Author: Carla Wynne

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

Entertainment

Your Next Blu Blood Experience Awaits

Published

4 weeks ago

19 March 2026

Carla Wynne

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.

Author: Carla Wynne

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

Art

BUMP & GRIND – Back By Popular Demand

Published

1 month ago

17 March 2026

Carla Wynne

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.

Venue: Northlands Bowling Club, Durban North
Dates: Friday 27 & Saturday 28 March – 7:30pm (doors open 6pm) | Sunday 29 March 2026 – 6:30pm (doors open 5pm)
Tickets: R220pp
Bookings: Webtickets – BOOK HERE

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

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