Blog Africa - Events

Taste of Joburg is back!

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 00:31:00 +0200

And yet again this remarkable festival will be bringing together the city's most acclaimed restaurants and carefully selected exhibitors to attract 15 000 of Joburg's most dedicated and sophisticated foodies. From Thursday 30th September to Sunday 3rd October 2010, the city's top restaurants and chefs will be serving a stunning selection of sample sized signature dishes to Taste of Joburg visitors. Riding high from the hugely successful Taste of Joburg 2009 this amazing food festival promises to be the culinary event of the year. Taste of Joburg brings together the city's finest restaurants, award winning wineries, premium drink brands, niche food exhibitors and fantastic entertainment. If you love eating out this is an opportunity too good to miss! Mouth-watering, lip-smacking, delectable, tantalising and unequivocally delicious just some of the words you'll be using at this year's Taste of Joburg Festival 2010 kicking off at Montecasino Outdoor Event Area from Thursday 30th September to 3rd October 2010. There are a limited amount of tickets available and bookings are essential, these can be purchased through Computicket on 083 915 8000 or www.computicket.com. Standard tickets cost R60 (includes a Taste wine glass), premium tickets cost R150 (includes a Taste wine glass and R100 worth of Crowns) and VIP tickets, for the ultimate Taste experience in the Taste Club House, cost R570. For more information go to www.tasteofjoburg.com.

More with Less&

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 11:57:00 +0200

As we speak this month, I reflect on our environment, on what is taking place around us, and how it impacts our business. The key message is that the global economic forum has changed forever. It has become evident that prudency in all we do has come to the fore and is now a key business imperative more than it has ever been. In order to preserve value for the business, for ourselves and attain sustainable growth, we will have to become mavericks at what we do and in all areas of operation while maintaining our values. Although I use the term maverick, very much tongue in cheek, I must emphasize that we must realize that we will have to do more with less. Income streams from our existing and potential clients are largely rationalized thereby resulting in a ripple effect to the service industry. This means that our guests are more likely to be price sensitive and at the same time demanding better service standards and delivery from us. This expectation has a direct bearing on our staffing and the requisite levels and caliber of personnel handling our guests. I recently presented a paper at the Institute of People Management of Zimbabwe (IPMZ) conference held in Victoria Falls and my talk touched on these key issues of what is expected of our people to enable them to deliver to internationally acceptable standards, yet at the same time managing head count as any efficient business should. The issue of multi-skilling with the right candidates is a real one which should be the backbone of any organization. In order to effectively deliver at all times, we need to identify talent, nurture it, and this will eventually ensure our competitiveness not only on the African platform but on a global scale as well. This forces me to revisit our staff skills competitiveness globally. What comes to mind is that we have pockets of excellence, but in order to change the perception of current skills level for Africa, our current training and development model has to be revamped in order to fit and meet modern challenges. The framework of the past will not work, therefore I leave you with this food for thought, what part can you play in your organization to ensure that your team remains relevant for today's world and beyond?

The Grace Roof-top Fanville

Fri, 28 May 2010 02:49:00 +0200

11th June 2010 to
World Cup Final
11th July 2010

All the World Cup games LIVE!

• Exciting food and beverages!

• Latest LED technology screens

There can be no better place to witness history than at The Grace Fanville!

Opens 12:00 noon on match days

The Victoria Falls Mountain Bike Challenge 2010

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 01:34:00 +0200

The Victoria Falls Mountain Bike Challenge is an amazing new event operated by the organisers of the successful Victoria Falls Marathon, ZambeziMan multi event and the Kilimanjaro Marathon. Riding through some of the most scenic areas along the Zambezi River Gorge below the Victoria Falls, private game areas, rural villages and culminating in a ride along the length of the Zambezi from the Botswana border to the Victoria Falls through the Zambezi National Park. The ride comprises of a combination of single track, rural roads and a small amount of tar (near the hotels). Please note that most of these areas are not usually available to any mountain bike rider and are unique to this event.

The Victoria Falls Mountain Bike Challenge will be fully backed up, marshalled, and controlled to world standards and is a must for all mountain bike cyclists and adventurers.

The accommodation for The Victoria Falls Mountain Bike Challenge, which is included in the package, is in the 4 star Elephant Hills Resort. Supporters are also catered for and included in their package they have transfers to view the event on the route from selected sites as well as take in all the extra options available in the area. Add on a few days and enjoy helicopter flights, canoeing, rafting, elephant back safaris or, for the wild at heart, gorge swinging or bungee jumping.

The ride is open to single riders and team riders (2 people). The single riders will start behind the team riders. Prize money is only open to team riders.

Packages are available through Wild Frontiers.

U17 World Cup Nigeria

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:35:00 +0200

If you were to ask the average person where the next football World Cup is being held, most would say, “South Africa”. However, an ardent fan would answer, “Nigeria”. The U17 World Cup kicked off on Saturday 24th October and will keep the West African nation captivated until November 15th. The teams from the twenty-four participating nations and spectators from all over the world have descended upon the eight host cities which include Abuja, Calabar, Enugu and Lagos.

In Enugu the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium is a striking example of the world class facilities that are a major source of pride for the nation. Such confidence is indicative of Nigeria’s strong desire to tempt FIFA back with more international tournaments. This is good news for Nigeria hotels, a chance to show to the world that there’s more to Nigeria than Oil.

Calabar, the capital of Cross River State, is seen as the place to party. Even before the matches began the city was in carnival mode. With dancers and musicians lining the streets, the city resounded to the beat of a nation whose love of football is more than pure passion, it is utter devotion.

The opportunity to showcase their hospitality has certainly been grasped by the Nigeria hotels. Amber Tinapa, located a few minutes’ drive from the centre of Calabar, in the Tinapa Free Trade Zone, is only a few months old, yet fully equipped to provide a relaxing night’s stay. Away from the hubbub, this is the location of choice for those who desire a little more than football. This Nigeria hotel offers easy access to one of the most exhilarating water parks in the country and is also at the centre of ‘Nollywood’ – the Nigerian film industry.

Nike Lake Resort Hotel, one of the designated Enugu hotels for the tournament, is ideally suited to meet the interests of those fans that also like to play sport. With a superbly equipped gym and the opportunity to enjoy swimming, volleyball, basketball and tennis there’s no excuse for being a couch potato.

Once the football fans have departed, Nigeria looks forward to the arrival of international athletes, eager to test their stamina in a gruelling uphill climb, in the mountains of Obudu. Don’t worry, you won’t need to make excuses here, the race was over-subscribed long ago! Relax at Obudu Mountain Resort and watch the athletes do all the hard work!

Christmas In July At The Grace In Rosebank

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 01:42:00 +0200

Experience our annual traditional Christmas at The Grace in Rosebank. The crisp weather in July is perfect for traditional Christmas Pud, Brandy sauce and coins...
The aroma of slow-roasted Turkey, glazed Gammon, Rosemary and Mint Leg of Lamb as well as slow roasted vegetables wafting past your nose will get you in the Christmas spirit.

Cost of R320 per person includes:
• Traditional Christmas Fare
• Gift
• Welcome drink

View The Menu

Join the Taste of Grace Club and receive your exclusive monthly invitation to
attend our program of special dining events and launches.

DATE: Saturday 25th July 2009
TIME: From 18h30
COST: R320 per person

Contact Lesley Mason
(011) 280 7200
lesley.mason@africansunhotels.com

FREE underground
parking and valet
service available.

Come and Run in a New Zimbabwe!

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:28:00 +0200

The Victoria Falls marathon has been developed in conjunction with the National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe, and is AIMS registered to provide an opportunity for both local and international runners to pitch themselves against the best!

The full marathon (42.2 kilometres) and the half marathon (21.1 kilometres) will take you through the town of Victoria Falls, cross border to Zambia to catch a glimpse of the mighty Victoria Falls as you cross the bridge and through the unspoiled surroundings just outside town, along the Zambezi River and back into town. There is an excellent chance of spotting game en-route (National Parks staff will monitor the route). Water points will be provided at clearly marked areas approx 3 kilometres apart.

Visit this World Heritage site and enjoy breathtaking scenery, a well organized race and of course stay in absolute luxury at The Victoria Falls Hotel. The sheer marvel of the cascading, thunderous sheets of water leaves visitors speechless and returning home with magnificent memories! Victoria Falls is the unchallenged adventure capital of Africa. It offers a vast array of natural-world activities - come and enjoy the many activities on offer before or after the marathon....! There's something for everyone… Adrenalin junkies favour the legendary white water rafting and high-wire swings across the vast gorge, while those preferring quieter pursuits can enjoy river cruises, elephant back safaris, canoeing and a variety of other activities.

Themed "Come and Run in a New Zimbabwe", organisers plan to use the event to raise money for schools in the Victoria Falls township of Chinotimba. Past events have supported such causes as AIDS orphans in the Falls.

World Summit On Arts And Culture

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 00:06:00 +0200

World Summit on Arts and Culture runs from 22 - 25 September 2009. Looking for a place to stay? Book Now at The Grace In Rosebank!

On the evening of Tuesday 22 September 2009 the National Arts Council of South Africa and IFACCA will host the opening ceremony of the 4th World Summit on Arts and Culture.

The following day, all delegates will travel to Museum Africa, in Newtown – the cultural heart of Johannesburg – for the opening keynote speech, and will have three days to discuss and debate the theme:

Meeting of Cultures: Creating Meaning through the Arts

The Summit will incorporate South Africa’s Heritage Day on Thursday 24 September, and throughout the week delegates will have the opportunity to attend performances at Arts Alive – Joburg’s annual art and culture festival.

Following the conclusion of the World Summit on Friday 25 September, delegates will be able to join tours of Joburg and surrounding areas.

IFACCA’s World Summits are triennial events intended to provide national arts councils, ministries of culture and other agencies with an opportunity to discuss key issues affecting public support for the arts and creativity.

Members and affiliates are invited to participate and most sessions will also be open to the public. Previous World Summits have been held in Ottawa, Canada (2000); Singapore (2003); and NewcastleGateshead, UK (2006).

The Summit will be co-hosted by the National Arts Council of South Africa and IFACCA, with the support of the South African Department of Arts and Culture, the Gauteng Provincial Government, Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation and the City of Joburg: Directorate of Arts, Culture and Heritage and the Johannesburg Tourism Company.

Chair of the National Arts Council of South Africa, Adv. Brenda Madumise, warmly welcomes prospective delegates to the Summit.

Will you be attending the World Summit On Arts And Culture? Looking for a place to stay? Book Now at The Grace In Rosebank!

Chocolate Decadence - Taste Of Grace

Tue, 19 May 2009 00:46:00 +0200

Chocolate Decadence

It's time to indulge in the pure decadence of an eight course chocolate menu at the award winning Dining Room at The Grace in Rosebank. The menu comprises delicacies fit for Kings and Queens and each course will be accompanied by an appropriately chosen Cap Classique. Raymond Rundle - Group Executive Chef will be on hand to explain the intricate recipes which have resulted in this culinary coup, the signature dish being Sticky Chocolate Duck, which is without doubt the best Duck Course ever served at The Grace.

Date: 10th June 2009
Time: 18h30 for 19h00

R395.00 per person

Booking essential to avoid disappointment.

Contact Lesley Mason
(011) 280 7200

lesley.mason@africansunhotels.com

Make A Booking Now!

View Menu

FREE underground
parking and valet
service available.

Obudu Ranch Mountain Race Results

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:28:00 +0200

Ehiopian runner, Abebe Dinkesa, ran a mind bogling 41.45secs race yesterday to win the $50,000 first place prize and also set a new course record in the 4th Obudu International Mountain Race.

Former junior cross country champion Ugandan, Kusuro Geoffrey who was favoured to finish in the top bracket, settled for second while defending champion Habtamu Fikadu Awash, also of Ethiopia, improved on his previous record of 42.50 seconds to 42.42 seconds which put him in third place. They got $20,000 and $9,000 respectively.

The result meant that no defending champion has succeeded in defending the title of the 11.5 kilometre race up the steep Obudu Mountain.

However, Austrian Andrea Mayr lived up to the expectations of the public by winning the women's title and the $50,000 prize money. Mayr, who is the 2008 World Mountain Running Champion, posted a superb finish sprinting past Ethiopian Angelina Mutheu Mutuku with just 200 metres to the finish line. She clocked 51.14 seconds while 52.17 seconds was recorded for Mutuku. Last year’s champion Rehima Kedir (also of Ethiopia) came in at third place with 52.51 seconds on the clock.

“This is the biggest race of my career. $50,000 is cool money for me or any other runner. I am going to use this cash to build a house and give myself a treat. $50,000 is not the kind of money one picks from race as often as possible” gushed an elated Mayr shortly after crossing the winning line.

Mayr insisted that when the race started from the bottom of the mountain, she was running in the 8th position at her own pace. “I never knew I could win. The heat was much and I saw so many good runners in my front. So, I was not running for the money. I was just running my race, enjoying every moment. Thank God it paid off handsomely at the end."

2008 IAAF World Half Marathon silver medallist, Aselefech Merga Medessa of Ethiopia, who most people had expected to give Mayr a good fight, placed fourth.

The star attraction of this years edition was the children’s race, which attracted kids from the neighbouring Obudu and Obanliku communities. The first three placed kids in both the male and female categories were rewarded handsomely with cash prizes and scholarships.

Dr Jide Josiah, the second vice president of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), believes that one day, one of the kids will beat all comers to win the prize money.

Over 200 athletes took part in the race with 40 of them being elite athletes from outside the country.

All accommodation for the runners was provided by Obudu Mountain Resort.

Obudu Ranch Mountain Race

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 03:16:00 +0200

The Obudu Ranch Mountain Race is a mountain race of 11.25Km up the height of 1600m (over 5000ft) above sea level. Awe-inspiring you might say, but wait until you get to the top, where the spectacle that meets your eye is sure to make you gasp for breath!

Obudu Mountain Resort is one of the finest tourist destinations in the world. Situated deep in the tropical and mountainous rainforest of Northern Cross River State; Obudu Mountain Resort is noted for its beautiful and enchanting landscape that evokes pleasure and vista.

Obudu Mountain Resort is equipped with modern facilities such as an airstrip, international hotel, a golf course, wildlife and a water park. It is also equipped with a Cable Car as well as a Canopy Walkway. The Cable Car ride presents a more picturesque view of the Resort. It is a lasting experience in every visitor's mind.

The fourth edition of the Obudu Ranch international mountain race will take place on Saturday 29th November when Jonathan Wyatt's theory that the African runners long flowing style is not naturally suited to running up and down hills as they are on flat ground' (IAAF top story 16th November) will be put to the test. The worlds top mountain runners will clash with several fast Africans for the valuable winner's prize of $50,000 a runners up prize of $20,000 and third place taking $10,000. Prize values than drop in $1000 intervals down to 8th place (same prizes for women)

The race is the brainchild of the governor of Cross River State (Nigeria), His Excellency Donald Duke who is underwriting the cost of the event. The Obudu Mountain Resort is one of his flagship projects to attract tourists to this remote yet beautiful region of Nigeria close to the border with Cameroon. The Obudu Resort sits on a mountain plateau at an altitude of 1600m where extensive new tourist accommodation has been built. Although there is a road from the base to the plateau, the route of the mountain race, you can travel from bottom to top by cable car - a state of the art Austrian construction completed last year, providing a spectacular and rather easier way to ascend the mountain than running up!

A new swimming complex has been installed which, situated as it is in rural Nigeria, has to be seen to be believed.

The race is an IAAF permit event, a WMRA associate member event, and is organised by the LOC of Cross River State, assisted by the Athletic federation of Nigeria. Doping control will be carried out and prizes withheld pending the results.

Looking for accommodation in Obudu? Please view the Obudu Mountain Resort page for more information