2024: A year of triumph and transformation
As 2024 draws to a close, we take a look back at the sports scene, which has been filled with notable achievements and inspiring stories.
From rising tennis stars to community-driven sports clubs, Cape Town’s sports landscape has experienced exciting moments of growth and success.
The Princess Vlei BMX Club celebrated a year of transformation after taking over an abandoned track at Princess Vlei Eco Park. Thanks to their tireless efforts, the facility has been turned into a thriving space for BMX riders of all levels.
The club, in partnership with the City of Cape Town, recently hosted around 100 riders to celebrate the progress they’ve made in revitalising the track. This success has not only impacted the riders but has also brought the community together around the sport.
Former Proteas all-rounder Jacques Kallis took a trip down memory lane, joining Claremont Cricket Club’s veterans' team for a friendly outing.
His participation sparked nostalgic memories for fans and players alike, highlighting his enduring love for the game.
Similarly, Johnno van der Walt, the former head coach of False Bay RFC, added yet another trophy to his impressive career, guiding the Stormers' under-21 team to a consecutive Currie Cup title.
In soccer, Plumstead High School’s under-16 boys’ squad had a memorable victory, clinching the Gavin Manuel Memorial Schools Legacy Cup with a 2-0 win against Wynberg High. It was a hard-fought match that showcased the skill and determination of the team, marking a significant achievement for the players and their coach.
We’ve seen the resilience of cricketers at Bishops, with SACS crowned the new under-19 champions, alongside Victoria Cricket Girls Hub, the under-18 girls’ champs.
In rugby, Wynberg Boys’ had one of the best seasons with numerous youngsters making provincial and national teams.
We’ve also seen some of the best memories created in the winter, from wins and lessons, with False Bay RFC in the Western Province Club Rugby Football Union.
In the world of boxing, Lwando Mgabi’s victory at the Jackie Brice-hosted event in Ottery marked a major milestone in his rising career. The Khayelitsha-based fighter captured the WBF Africa Super Flyweight title, further solidifying his position as one of South Africa’s most promising young boxers.
Mgabi’s triumph adds to a year already full of achievements, including being named the South African champion earlier in 2024. Alongside him are two other champions, the WBF International champ Asekho Nocele and Ntombokuqala Tolashe the first woman from Cape Town to be crowned the SA Champ earlier this year.
Cycling also saw exciting performances from young athletes, with members of the Ocean View-based Fresh Start Cycling Club returning home from the Youth Cycling Festival in Oudtshoorn with a haul of medals. Their success at the national level is a testament to their hard work and the guidance of their coaches.
Other notable achievements came from the world of ice hockey, where the Western Province Ice Hockey Association hosted the Cape Town leg of the International Ice Hockey Federation’s “Global Girls” initiative, bringing together female players of all ages. The event showcased the growing participation of women in the sport and highlighted the power of international collaboration.
In athletics, Cape Town's Naeem Jack proved his mettle by walking away with double gold at the Youth and Junior national championships.
Meanwhile, the Western Cape baseball teams dominated at the national championships, with the under-12A, under-15A, and under-18A boys’ teams winning gold in their respective divisions. The inaugural girls’ baseball team also earned silver, marking a historic moment for the sport in the region.
As we reflect on the year, it’s clear that sports in Cape Town have thrived in 2024, with athletes excelling in various disciplines, and fostering a sense of pride and unity.
