Last night I attended my first ever major soccer game. The World champions, Italy, against the African Champions, Egypt, at Ellis Park. I have been to many rugby games at this stadium, but this was a brand new experience to hear the hoots of the vuvuzelas thundering across the crisp evening air, and feel the energy and excitement of the passionate spectators. We were swiftly whisked off to the stadium in a taxi; the iTransie programme supplied minibus taxis and buses from the park and ride points across the city. The taxi driver was courteous, careful and a great ambassador for the country. Once in the stadium, I was overwhelmed with pride as I became one of the 52 100 who was there to cheer on their favourite team. It amazes me how sport has the ability to unite us all, and I got goosebumps listening to Shosholoza being sung by a few thousand people. After the game, we finally boarded yet another taxi (this one had an amazing 442 000km on its odometer) and drove back to Wits, proud, and happy to be South African.

One year to go to 2010 kick off

To get the spirit going Cape Town Tourism are going to kick a ceremonial soccer ball off Table Mountain at the sound of the noon day gun. At the same time they are encouraging us all to make a noise to live it. So let’s make our own statement and join forces to make a noise to cheer on a successful world cup next year.

Hermanus Tourism  has invited us to join them at the amphitheatre above the Old Harbour at 11h45 on Thurs 11th June 2009. The plan is to shake the heavens with a LOUD EXUBERANT clamour at noon. Bring along your horn, vuvuzela, whistle, trumpet, drum or just come along with all your staff, family and friends and let your vocal chords run riot!

There is strength in unity so lets join together to welcome 2010 with gusto and bring on the visitors to our beautiful home, village and country!