Lucky Stars SM Legacy tournament draw revealed

Lucky Stars SM Legacy tournament draw revealed

The draw for the 2023 edition of the Lucky Star SM Legacy Tournament took place last Friday at One on One Situation Restaurant in Solomondale Township, Polokwane. The tournament which is in its 6th year continues to attract some of the strongest kasi teams throughout Limpopo and beyond.

A total of 50 clubs will play each other in a knockout format to determine the eventual winners.

ALSO READ: SA Players lack composure – Black Leopards coach Dorado

Over 50 matches will be played across all three categories of the tournament namely; senior men’s, boys under 21, and senior women’s.

32 teams will battle it out for the much anticipated senior men’s category where the champions will take home R70 000.

“We are excited to welcome Lucky Star as the headline sponsor for this year’s edition. This will enable us to deliver yet another action-packed thrilling grassroots football festival in the village” said tournament founder Solly Malatsi.

“As part of our social upliftment programme, my foundation will donate a pair of school shoes to poor learners for every goal that is scored during the tournament,” added Malatsi.

LUCKY STARS SM LEGACY TOURNAMENT DRAW:

Saturday, 2 September
1 Giant Aces v Shining Stars
09:30
2 Blue Birds v Lebala Moloi Attorney
11:30
3 Zama Zama v Newcastle
13:30
4 Barcelona v Kaizer XI
15:30


Sunday, 03 September
1 Kopano FC v Rekaofela FC
09:30
2 Trouble Makers v 45 Swallows
11:30
3 Kan FC v Dikgale United
13:30
4 Madiga Junior Chiefs v Mantheding Swallows
15:30

Saturday, 09 September
1 Napoli v Highlanders
09:30
2 Mararas FC v Seven Stars
11:30
3 Lepelle fc v Turfloop Inter
13:30
4 Sebayeng Big 4 v Bakoena FC
15:30

Sunday, 10 September
1 Puma v Makgato
09:30

2 TR Academy v Mantheding Fabiani
11:30

3 Piano FC v Solani va Solani
13:30

4 Makakanka Rekaofela v Mahlallane Peace Lovers
15:30

Construction at the Softball Stadium in Limpopo stopped

Construction at the Softball Stadium in Limpopo stopped

The construction of the multi-million rand softball stadium at Polokwane, Limpopo has come to an abrupt stop, according to a report by Limpopo Chronicle.

It is alleged that the contractor wanted more funds as there was a shortfall due to escalating costs. This is after experiencing a shortfall of R11 million and did not have the funds to complete the project. The workers reportedly downed tools in September 2022.

ALSO READ: The Vicky Mkhawana Story: How the Limpopo boy Rapidly Paved His Way Up To The Chiefs Senior Team

Polokwane Municipality Mayor, John Mpe has also told the SABC that the cost of materials increased over time. This subsequently affected the contractor’s ability to complete the stadium.

“In terms of the stoppage, there have been engagements with the contractor,” Mpe told the public broadcaster.

“The contractor wanted the escalating process. The fact that after COVID things went skyrocketing in terms of material, the contractor wanted to apply for the variation that was more than 20%,” he explained.

Construction at the Softball Stadium in Limpopo stopped
Softball Stadium

Construction at the R 90 million project began in 2021. R51 million has already been spent so far.

SOFTBALL STADIUM CONSTRUCTION STOPPED

Mpe added that the construction will resume in the near future as they are contracting a new company.

“In a matter of thirty days, the contractor should be on-site. During the month of June, during the State of City Address, we will make an announcement about the continuation of the project.”

The stadium is earmarked to be the largest softball stadium in the country. It is also aimed at positioning Polokwane as a world-class sporting hub. It is situated next to the New Peter Mokaba Stadium, opposite the Peter Mokaba Netball Court. About 100 workers who are employed for the project are now jobless.

Marumo and Sundowns match in Polokwane rescheduled

Marumo and Sundowns match in Polokwane rescheduled

The DStv Premiership match between Marumo Gallants and Mamelodi Sundowns set for Sunday, 13 April at Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane has been rescheduled.

This is due to the CAF inter-club commitments by both clubs. Gallants have reached the semifinals of the CAF Confederations Cup for the first time in their history. Sundowns on the other hand are into the CAF Champions League semifinals.

Gallants are set to play against Tanzania giants Young Africans while Sundowns will take on Waydad of Morocco.

CAF is yet to officially issue out the exact dates and venues for the two-legged encounters.

Marumo Gallants and Mamelodi Sundowns match in Polokwane rescheduled
Marumo Gallants players celebrate

MAMELODI SUNDOWNS AND MARUMO GALLANTS MATCH RESCHEDULED 

Meanwhile, the PSL on Tuesday confirmed that the dates for the league clash between the two teams has been moved. The fixture was originally scheduled for Saturday, 13 May at Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane. The fixture has now been moved to Saturday, 6 May at the same venue. Kickoff is at 19:00.

Also read:  GALLERY: Polokwane Mayoral Charity Golf Day 

Marumo Gallants might be making all strides in the continent but continue to struggle domestically. They are currently third from the bottom with three matches remaining.

A win against Maritzburg United on Wednesday night might well secure their spot for next season. But a loss will definitely mean the chances of them being relegated are high.

By Khotso Ramalwatsa 

Limpopo softball teams on their last-minute rituals ahead of NPC

Limpopo softball teams on their last-minute rituals ahead of NPC

BY MOYAHABO MABEBA

Dinare and Dinose, the Limpopo softball men and women respectively, are happily encamped in Seshego township, outside of Polokwane. They are buoyed by the thrill of adventure ahead of the National Provincial Championships.

The inter-provincial tourney pitches off on 21 March to 25 at Hoy Park, Durban in KwaZulu Natal.

Also read: Limpopo Softball Association Super League pitches off

The event, played under the auspices of Softball South Africa, is the national game’s Holy Grail in which all the nine provinces converge to exchange bats.

Dinare and Dinose are bracing themselves for heavier seas in the coastal province this coming week where Koloi Kekana and Biya Matlala’s brave army will fight on the tumultuous battlefield for the first time.

Also read: Soshanguve Cycling club tour Limpopo to raise funds 

There have been sweeping changes, particularly in the men’s team, following the mass exodus of some of the “senior” players. Paving way for newcomers to shine in the theater of dreams.

Dinare will be in the Zulu Kingdom solidly entrenched as the defending champions having won this tournament six times in succession. The first-ever province to also achieve this praiseworthy feat.

*MABEBA is the Limpopo Softball Association’s Head of Marketing and Publicity and PRO is Capricorn Sports Confederation

Limpopo Impalas play their last match of the season 

Limpopo Impalas play their last match of the season 

The Limpopo Impalas cricket team are currently playing their last match of Division Two of the men’s domestic cricket season. 

The Impalas are up against the Eastern Storm at the Polokwane Cricket club. The four-day match started on Thursday, 9 March until Sunday, 12 March. 

Also read: Aiden Markram replace Bavuma as Proteas T20I captain

It has been a successful 2022/23 season for the Limpopo franchise on and off the field. Despite the failure to fight for promotion to Division One, the Impalas were awarded First Class status in October 2022. 

This meant all their matches are now recorded in the ICC Classification of Official Cricket. This follows a two-year trial period where they displayed the required level of professionalism and performance. 

2022/23 a success for Limpopo Impalas cricket 

Chief Executive Officer of Limpopo Impalas Cricket, Tommy Phiri admits it has been a challenging season but they pride themselves with what they have achieved so far. 

“If I take it back to only one season it wouldn’t be fair because there has been a whole lot of tremendous work put together in the past two seasons,” he told LimSportsZone. 

Chief Executive Officer of Limpopo Impalas Cricket, Tommy Phiri
Chief Executive Officer of Limpopo Impalas Cricket, Tommy Phiri

“I think the biggest factor was the division one and two when Cricket South Africa decided to restructure domestic cricket and we all knew that this season would be key for us to look at the relegation and promotion process.

Also read: New era for the Proteas under Temba Bavuma and Conrad

“The last game for us against Storms is a key one, it’s actually important for them because they are one of the teams looking to be promoted to division one. For Limpopo Impala cricket there are a lot of things that we have achieved. We have seen players finish in the top five with both ball and bat,” Phiri reflected. 

Limpopo Impalas Cricket team
Limpopo Impalas Cricket team

“The office as a whole has been quite challenging from a financial point of view. But we tried everything in our power to sustain and address issues which are key.”

The Limpopo Impalas will also be hosting mini cricket kids from all five districts in Limpopo during the duration of the match. 

Limpopo Impalas v Eastern Storm photo Gallery:

RELATES POST: Proteas players included in the ICC teams of the year

Limpopo Softball Association Super League pitches off

Limpopo Softball Association Super League pitches off

An action-packed Limpopo Softball Association Super League season blasts off this Sunday at Lebowakgomo and Ga-Mashashane diamonds. Pitch-off for the fixture is at 09:00.

The commencement of the league season comes at the back of a successful Mamonkoe Holdings Top-8 Tournament. The Tournament was celebrated amid boundless fanfare at Polokwane Cricket Grounds last weekend.

The competition, which was a season precursor, became the springboard from where the domestic calendar of events was launched. Paving a way for the upcoming 2023 National Provincial Championships in Durban, Kwa-Zulu Natal from March 21 to 25.

ALSO READ: Limpopo Softball Association top 8 takes center stage 

LIMPOPO SOFTBALL ASSOCIATION SUPER LEAGUE PROMISES TO BE A BANGER

Softball fans will be treated to exhilarating action as 12 teams will be in action on Sunday. Welcoming newly-promoted Botlokwa Trailblazers and Nchabeleng Lions.

Moletlane Texas, inarguably the team of the future. Will saunter onto the pitch with a swagger after winning the inaugural tourney in all genders.

The men in meroon and white from the citrus hub of Zebediela will trade bats with Mamaolo Rebels in a breakfast fixture and wrap their day with Mankweng Pioneers.

Apart from the reigning champs, the home side, Wild Beasts will welcome Motlolo Roots in the morning. Further lock horns with high-riding Texas in what promises to be a blockbuster sporting spectacle.

Trailblazers will begin their long and arduous journey in the premier league when they cross paths with Pioneers and Roots.

Elsewhere in rural Jupitar, dust will hardly settle when the hosts, Naledi Spiders, renew their rivalry with Seshego Raiders and Mahwelereng Spikes.

Raiders, who are still celebrating their runners up finishing during the Top-8 competition, have a date with Spikes in a midday slot.

DEMANDING SEASON AHEAD

The 2023 season has been described as the most demanding. It features provincial events, Softball South Africa’s NPC and myriad international tournaments.       

Limpopo will be in the coastal city of Durban solidly entrenched as the reigning champions having comprehensively won this tournament six times in a row.

ALSO READ: Trailblazers, Lions conquer Limpopo Softball playoffs

Dinare will embark on this journey with renewed hope following sweeping changes in the playing personnel and the technical staff.

Head coach Koloi Kekana remains optimistic that the looming tournament will be the dawn of a new era for Limpopo softball.

“This year’s NPC is going to open doors for the new players who have shown glimpses of brilliance during the league. We are currently building a new team that will keep the Limpopo flag flying,” said Kekana.

RELATED POST: Moletlane Texas ace pitcher Suen Aphane expcted to lead his side at Limpopo Softball Association top 8

Soshanguve Cycling club tour Limpopo to raise funds 

Soshanguve Cycling club tour Limpopo to raise funds 

The Soshanguve Cycling club completed their tour from Pretoria to Polokwane, Limpopo in order to raise funds this past weekend.

The ride began on Saturday which was 280km from Wonderpark in Pretoria to the Peter Mokaba Stadium in the City of Stars. 

SOSHANGUVE CYCLING CLUB TOUR A SUCCESS 

The fifth edition of the tour went  fromPretoria to Polokwane through Hammanskraal, Bela Bela, Modimolle, Mookgopong, Mokopane and into Polokwane. It proceeded to Seshego on Sunday morning. 

Soshanguve Cycling club riding from Seshego
Soshanguve Cycling club riding from Seshego

ALSO READ: Limpopo Softball Association top 8 takes center stage 

So far some of the sponsors who have come on board include Build It, Botho Society and BMW Montana. 

“There is a school in Seshego that we are targeting to raise funds so that’s why we did the ride,” said spokesperson of the club Phillip Ralehlaka. 

RIDING FOR A PURPOSE 

“All our rides are for a purpose. We have three tours in a year, every ride that we do we feel that this is a school that we can make a difference. It might not be that much but the little that we gather will give it to them.”

Phillip Ralehlaka

“Some of the contributions from the members that were riding, the teams that joined us. There is a certain fee that they paid which went towards the running of the tour. Whatever that is left will form part of the basket that we are going to donate.” 

They were joined by multiple cycling clubs who almost came on to show support including the Seshego cycling club. 

ALSO READ: Limpopo Karate students excel in weekend gradings  

Cyclists through the N1 next to Meropa Casino in Polokwane

The club pleads with members of the society for sponsorship in return for advertising on the club’s promotional, marketing platforms and broadcasting partner. All proceeds raised will bedonated to Luthuli Combined School at Luthuli Park. 

In their previous tour, the club has also managed to raise money for school shoes, blankets and non-perishable food which were donated to various institutions.  

RELATED POST: GALLERY: Fifth annual CDM 4-IN-1 Marathon done and dusted 

GALLERY: Fifth annual CDM 4-IN-1 Marathon done and dusted 

GALLERY: Fifth annual CDM 4-IN-1 Marathon done and dusted 

The fifth edition of the annual CDM 4-IN-1 Marathon which started and finished at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday proved to be a huge success.

Thousands of runners came out to participate in the 5km, 10km, 21km and 42km races in Limpopo‘s capital.

CDM 4-IN-1 MARATHON A HUGE SUCCESS 

All race tickets were sold out and it is estimated that over 2 000 runners took part. Lutendo Mapoto was the big winner of the day as he ran the 42km race in a time of 2:12:21. 

42km winner Lutendo Mapoto
42km winner Lutendo Mapoto

Capricorn District Municipality Executive Mayor Cllr Mamedupi Teffo also ran and completed her first ever 21km race. She was part of the happiness Bus led by seasoned media personality and Energy FM Station manager Bk Matewe. They complete in a time of 02:47. 

“I am happy that I managed to finish my first 21km run in 2:47 minutes. I must say it was not an easy task but I was happy because I was on the bus with Bk Matewe and all the runners,” said Mayor Teffo afterwards. 

Capricorn District Municipality Executive Mayor Cllr Mamedupi Teffo
Capricorn District Municipality Executive Mayor Cllr Mamedupi Teffo completes 21km

HOW MAYOR TEFFO PREPARED FOR HER MAIDEN 21KM RACE 

“My son also ran 10km and he also managed to finish on time. As busy as I am, I always make time for exercise. I run in the morning at around 4:30am. I don’t have time to do it everyday but the minute I get time I make sure that I go and run because with the type of work that we are doing it’s important to keep healthy and fit at all times. 

CDM Mayor Cllr Mamedupi Teffo with the Bus of Happiness fellow runners

ON WHETHER SHE WOULD ATTEMPT TO DO A 42KM RUN

“I think so. But I think I must just do at least 21km four to five times before I do 42km but u must say it was not easy. But it was also exciting at the same time. I am so proud of myself, for a person who is not a competitive runner. And for a person who is also always very busy. You have no idea how happy I am. Even with my medal, I am going to keep it safe in my room so that it motivates me to go bigger.”

The driver of the happiness Bus Bk Matewe also had some positive feedback on the executive Mayors race, commending her determination and attitude. 

A runner at the l CDM 4-IN-1 Marathon
Nthabiseng Metlhe at the CDM 4-IN-1 Marathon

“I think she did exceptionally well though I am not surprised because she has the right attitude and determination. 

“Last week 18 February we did a pre-race run of 21km and today we were just retracing our steps because we knew when to pace up and slow down,” he said. 

Runners during CDM 4-IN-1 Marathon

“I am extremely proud of her achievement for having completed her first 21km race, officially so.”

Peak timing are yet to release the official overall results of all the races. 

PHOTO GALLERY: 

ALSO READ: CDM-4-in-one marathon 2023 edition officially launched

Virus-free.www.avast.com

Limpopo Softball Association top 8 takes center stage 

Limpopo Softball Association top 8 takes center stage 

A battle royal is looming large as more and more brilliant young players challenge the monarchs of the game at the Limpopo Softball Association top 8 Tournament.

The inaugural tournament is billed for Saturday, 25 February at the Polokwane Cricket Grounds in Limpopo. A total of 16 teams from both genders will trade bats in this flagship tournament. 

Sponsored by Mamonkoe Holdings, the tournament will also reward winners with medals, trophies for individual performance. The prize money is yet to be announced.

The competition is long-overdue after it was initially postponed following heavy rains that left the playing surface overwhelmingly drenched in recent weeks.

TOP TEAMS TO BATTLE IT OUT AT LIMPOPO SOFTBALL ASSOCIATION TOP 8

The competition will have top teams who finished in the top-eight bracket of the domestic league season.

Leading the pack is table toppers, Moletlane Texas, Lebowakgomo Wild Beasts, Mamaolo Rebels, Mahwelereng Spikes, Naledi Spiders, Seshego Raiders, Motlolo Roots and Mankweng Pioneers.

Women’s sport, softball included, has become a every marketer’s dream, according to LSA Head of Marketing and Publicity, Moyahabo Mabeba.

“Similarly to golf and tennis, even in softball you can still get a glimpse of those extremely gorgeous ladies who can play the game with unrivalled intensity, vigour and valour. Their bravado and bravura is the hallmark of their combination of being brainy and brawny,” said Mabeba.

TOURNEY TO BE USED AS PREPARATION FOR PROVINCIAL CHAMPIONSHIPS 

With the 2023 edition of the National Provincial Championships approaching later in March. The boom time is likely to be reflected in this one-day masterpiece.

“This event will provide our teams in the province with preparations for the NPC. We are gearing up for this national assignment. So this Top-Eight event will also be the perfect platform for showcase our provincial fortitude. Determination to defend our title as the undisputed softball kings,” Mabeba added. 

ALSO RELATED: Trailblazers, Lions conquer Limpopo Softball playoffs

Ex Sapa Yopa presidents 3 000 km ride to Angola

Ex Sapa Yopa presidents 3 000 km ride to Angola

Former Sapa Yopa Motorcycle Club presidents Sarel Nong and Antonio Pico Santana Martins completed a 3 298 kilometer ride from Polokwane to Angola.

The two former presidents went to attend two biggest rallies Amigos da Picado and Nomadas in Angola. The one way trip took place on Sunday, 29 January. They returned to South Africa on Wednesday, 8 February.

Not only did they treat other road users to the impressive sight of a stunt but the Sapa Yopa MCC won the longest rider award.

ANGOLA RIDE A FULFILMENT FOR EX SAPA YOPA PRESIDENT

Nong says he had the best trip ever riding on the ground soil of Africa from Polokwane to Angola.

“We left Polokwane Sunday morning straight to Botswana and slept in Botswana, thereafter we left for Namibia,” he explained.

“That took us two days and we arrived on Thursday. The main aim was to support the two biggest clubs in the SADC region, Amigos da Picado and Nomadas. These guys always support Sapa Yopa MCC rallies. They came in large numbers at every last year’s rally to support the Sapa Yopa rally.

“That side of Angola roads are bad, serious potholes on the road,” said Nong on challenges they faced on the road.

Different Bikers ascended in Angola to support Amigos da Picado and Nomadas rallies
Different Bikers gathered in Angola to support Amigos da Picado and Nomadas rallies

GREAT TREATMENT FROM ANGOLAN BROTHERS

“We were nicely welcomed by the different presidents of the club’s side. They gave us good treatment. We were also awarded the longest rider award.

“We had a mass ride, and in Angola, cars are on the left-hand drive and you drive on the right-hand side. But we have been riding the streets of Benguela which is the number two big city in Angola,” he said.

“The people of Angola are nice and the food is nice and we had fun and the rallies were so refreshing.”

UNIT WAS THE KEY TO SEEING OFF LONGEST TRIP

Antonio Pico Santana Martins said the trip went according to plan and that everyone had a blast.

“We often travel long distances together and we need to work well as a unit. At the end of the day, we are all bikers who live the biking life,” said Martins.

Antonio Pico Santana Martins riding to Angola
Antonio Pico Santana Martins riding to Angola

He explained the ride was also aimed to remind members of the various clubs about their targets and purpose.

“We want to build relationships, share and learn with and from each other. The main aim is to establish clear short-term goals and methods for celebrating the achievements and milestones of the club and individual members. We are living our dreams of cultural diversity with a membership that includes black people, Indians, coloured, and white people,” he said.

RELATED STORY: Fifth edition of the Limpopo Championship launched