Teen duo relieved to be back home in CT after football tour group left stranded in Portugal
The academy failed to book return flights despite participants paying R50,000 each for the trip.
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The Citizen
a day ago
- The Citizen
Hoedspruit teen selected for SA rugby tour to Spain
HOEDSPRUIT – A talented teenager from Hoedspruit is one step closer to achieving his dream of playing professional rugby after being selected by the Rugby Travel Academy (RTA) to represent South Africa on an international tour to Spain in December this year. Kian Conrad Lötter, who will turn 16 in September, lives on the Air Force Base in Hoedspruit and attends Ben Vorster High School in Tzaneen. His rugby journey began in pre-primary school, where he played informally with friends. In Gr 1, he joined the Drakensig Primary School rugby team and quickly proved himself to be a gifted and dedicated sportsman. 'Kian was a busy body from the start, he ran before he could walk,' says his mom, Cheree. 'We realised early on that he was a natural athlete. In primary school, he played every sport available, rugby, athletics, tennis, hockey and excelled in all of them.' Now a Gr 10 learner, Kian plays multiple rugby positions, including wing, scrumhalf, fullback and centre. His standout performance for the Limpopo Blue Bulls during the recent winter holiday caught the attention of RTA scouts, who contacted him directly after a match. On July 11, the family received the official invitation for Kian to join the international travelling team. 'This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,' says Cheree. 'We were overwhelmed with pride. The RTA does not just offer international exposure; it also provides bursaries after school. It is a gateway to Kian's future.' However, the family now faces the challenge of raising R50 000 to cover the travel and tour costs, appealing to the public for financial support. Kian, who is committed to his sports and school, has already started raising the money by cutting grass for residents, assisting at weekend auctions, and looking for opportunities to wash cars in Tzaneen during his limited spare time. But with school rugby continuing every weekend until August, followed by 7s rugby and the athletics season in September, his availability is limited. Despite the challenges, the Lötter family remains determined. 'He has sacrificed so much for sport, attending a school 120km from home just to pursue better opportunities,' says Cheree. 'It's not easy, but seeing him get recognised makes it all worthwhile.' Kian himself is humbled by the opportunity. 'It's a dream come true. I've trained when others were playing around. I'm excited to meet and learn from players from other countries and to show what I can do on a bigger stage. I am extremely grateful.' The family has created a BackaBuddy account to raise money and welcomes any form of support. For those who wish to contribute or offer assistance, Cheree can be contacted at 084 697 8164. 'Every little bit helps,' she says. 'We're grabbing every opportunity we can, because we believe in Kian and what he's capable of.'
The South African
a day ago
- The South African
LIV Golf coming to South Africa: Date and venue CONFIRMED
LIV Golf has announced Steyn City in Johannesburg is set to host the first-ever LIV Golf South Africa from 20-22 March 2026. A multi-year commitment, the announcement represents a landmark moment for the league as it expands to the African continent for the first time, extending LIV Golf competition to five continents across the globe. Early bird tickets for LIV Golf South Africa are now available for purchase HERE, including a select number of Club 54 Hospitality Tickets and three-day Ground Passes to enjoy a festival of world-class golf, live music, and family-friendly experiences. A three-day early bird Ground Pass will cost you R2 193.17 down from R2 436.86, while Club 54 Hospitality Tickets will set you back R50 443.20. Free admission for children 12 and under. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult. The tournament will spotlight Stinger GC, the league's all-South African team, captained by 2010 Open champion Louis Oosthuizen and featuring fellow countrymen Dean Burmester, Branden Grace, and 2011 Masters champion, Charl Schwartzel. The team is expected to enjoy strong home support in March, as they compete for both individual and team titles in a field of 54 of the world's best players across three days in front of passionate local fans. In addition to home team Stinger GC, they'll be joined by a host of international stars including current 2025 season points leader Joaquin Niemann (Torque GC), Bryson DeChambeau (Crushers GC), Brooks Koepka (Smash GC), Phil Mickelson (HyFlyers GC), Jon Rahm (Legion XIII), Sergio Garcia (Fireballs GC), Cameron Smith (Ripper GC), Dustin Johnson (4Aces GC), and many more. The LIV Golf field is comprised of 18 major champions with a combined 28 major championships, bringing many of the sport's biggest stars to South Africa. The Club at Steyn City, located just north of Johannesburg, is known globally for its prestigious championship golf course designed by Nicklaus Design. With sweeping fairways, dramatic scenery, and a legacy of hosting professional tournaments, the course will provide the perfect setting for LIV Golf's debut in Africa and an exciting venue for broadcasters to showcase around the world. Post-play concerts and engaging fan experiences have become hallmark features of LIV Golf events, creating a unique festival atmosphere at every international stop. South Africa will be no exception, with marquee music entertainment to be announced in the event leadup. 'Bringing LIV Golf to South Africa is another significant moment in our journey,' said Ross Hallett, LIV Golf Executive Vice President, Head of Events. 'The country has a proud sporting heritage with passionate fans and world-class talent, and Steyn City will be an incredible host venue to celebrate this next chapter. We currently have events in Asia, Europe, Australasia, North America and today we add Africa, marking another exciting opportunity to showcase LIV Golf to a new audience and market. 'Our league is committed to driving the sport forward through competition, an innovative format, new investment opportunities, and collaborative partnerships that support progress throughout the communities we serve. We are incredibly grateful to have the support of the South African government and especially the Minister for Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie. Together, I know we will deliver a truly unforgettable experience to fans in Johannesburg, drive economic impact and tourism in the region, and showcase all that South Africa has to offer.' 'It's always special to compete at home, and I'm incredibly proud to bring LIV Golf to South Africa for the first time,' said Oosthuizen, captain of Stinger GC. 'For Branden, Charl, Dean and I to play in front of our fans, friends, and families will be an unforgettable experience. 'South African sports fans love their golf, and I am sure they will turn out in large numbers to support Stinger GC. South Africa has given so much to us, and now we get to give something back.' 'We are enormously proud to showcase Johannesburg and South Africa on the global stage, with our world-class lifestyle estate and golf course as shining examples of local excellence,' said Steven Louw, CEO of Steyn City Properties. 'We look forward to partnering with LIV Golf, Gauteng government and other stakeholders to share our country's exceptional golfing experience with the world, and to play a role in advancing the sport we are so passionate about.' 'This is a special moment to announce that the world's most dynamic and innovative new golfing format will make its historic debut in South Africa,' said Gayton McKenzie, South Africa's Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture. 'This will be a proud moment for our nation, showcasing our vibrant sports culture and world-class hospitality to a global audience. 'The all-South African Stinger GC team is also testament to our country's rich golfing heritage, and we need to get behind our boys as a country when they are here, so that they can win their nation's inaugural tournament. 'Visitors will truly feel that they are in Africa, with access to a Big 5 reserve with lions and elephants – Dinokeng – less than an hour's drive from Steyn City. No LIV event will be anything like this one and we are confident that the world's golf lovers will make travelling to ours, the world's most beautiful country, a must-do trip on their calendar. 'LIV will also help to popularise golf in South Africa, and I also look forward to using the big concerts each day as a platform to show off our amazing home-grown, internationally competitive entertainment. We take our hats off to LIV as an organisation for heeding the call to include Africa on their calendar if they wish to call themselves a truly global brand. This is what we want to see for other sports too, from Formula One to the Summer Olympics. 'We are excited to work with LIV Golf's team to deliver a festival of sport and culture that will inspire fans, boost tourism, and create lasting opportunities for our communities, because LIV has committed to reinvesting into the countries that welcome them.' More details on additional hospitality packages, grounds passes and entertainment for LIV Golf South Africa will be unveiled soon. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The Citizen
2 days ago
- The Citizen
Newcastle Mall raises R24K for St. Martin's Village
The Newcastle Mall hosted a vibrant and impactful Golf Day this past Saturday at the Newcastle Golf Club, in support of St. Martin's Village. With a strong turnout and generous support from the community, the event proved to be both an enjoyable and meaningful occasion. Thanks to the combined efforts of organisers, golfers, sponsors, and volunteers, an incredible R24,000 was raised. The funds were officially handed over to St. Martin's Village on Thursday, July 18, and will go a long way in supporting the home's care and outreach to vulnerable children. A standout feature of the day was the generous prize sponsorships that helped elevate the event. Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife sponsored a generous weekend getaway for four, valued at R7,600. Blackrock Casino, in collaboration with Tsogo Sun, contributed a luxury 2-night stay at Suncoast Casino, with VIP Lubes adding petrol vouchers to the package, making it a prize worth R5,000. Shell Petrol Station, located at Newcastle Mall, generously sponsored a full tank of fuel. Neerajh Auto Clinic also sponsored a cash prize for a 'Closest to the Pin' winner, adding excitement and energy to the competition. Of course, these special prizes were part of a broader tapestry of support. Newcastle Mall would like to sincerely thank all our incredible sponsors whose contributions, big or small, made the day such a tremendous success. From prizes and vouchers to refreshments and event support, every contribution played a crucial role in making a difference. Beulah Rajkumar of Newcastle Mall shared: 'A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us for our Newcastle Mall Golf Day in support of St. Martin's Village. Together, we made every shot count! Thank you to all our sponsors, players, and voluntary helpers who contributed to the day's success.' Sponsors who made the day possible included: Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, Tsogo Sun, Blackrock Casino, VIP Lubes, Newcastle Mall Shell Petrol Station, Neerajh Auto Clinic, Kyotech, Cell C, Boston College, Ferrum High School, Amajuba High School, Execuspec, Cash Converters, Fishaways, Debonairs, Steers, Wimpy, Nando's, Mugg & Bean, Pick n Pay, Jenny Internet, Newcastle Advertiser, Yooh Media, Northern Natal Lubricants, Modsigns, MTN, Roman's Pizza, Ocean Basket, Edgars, Sealpro, Estique Beauty Salon, Game X, MMG Toyota, Mama's Sauce, Spur. Katharina Christova of St. Martin's Village also expressed their heartfelt thanks to all involved. 'We to extend our most sincere thanks to the Newcastle Mall and all their sponsors for their amazing efforts in organising this event for St. Martin's. 'Your contribution will help us continue doing what matters most: caring for the children who call our village home. 'Your support reminds us that we are not alone in this journey. Together, we are giving these children not just a roof over their heads, but hope, love, and a chance at a brighter future. Thank you for standing with us, believing in our mission, and making a difference. It takes a village to raise a child and we thank you for being part of ours,' she concluded. Information supplied by Newcastle Mall The news provided to you in this link has been investigated and compiled by the editorial staff of the Newcastle Advertiser, a sold newspaper distributed in the Newcastle area. Please follow us on Youtube and feel free to like, comment, and subscribe. For more local news, visit our webpage, follow us on Facebook and Twitter, and request an add on our WhatsApp (082 874 5550).
