Plastics|SA’s Training Division recently hosted a series of well-attended information sharing breakfasts at its regional offices in Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, Johannesburg and Durban with the aim of providing details of exciting new learning programmes that it will soon be offering.

Welcoming guests at all four events, Plastics|SA’s Training Executive, Kirtida Bhana, stressed the importance of offering relevant, up-to-date learning programmes that address the changing needs in the plastics industry. “Plastics are an important part of the country’s manufacturing sector. It is therefore critical to ensure that we have the correct skills in place to sustain our growth over the next few years to come,” she said.

According to Kirtida, these annual get-togethers offer their current and potentially new customers the ideal opportunity to become familiar with the Training Divisions offering, culture and values, whilst the training teams are on hand to answer any questions they may have regarding accessing funding, course content or tailoring courses to their specific needs.

Improving local content input and output

During the past financial year, Plastics|SA successfully trained more than 3 000 learners. Whilst the most popular learning programmes are those centred around the actual manufacturing processes (with quality and safety programmes being part of these), the Training Division also launched a National Certificate in Production Technology (NQF2) and Generic Management (NQF5) last year. Another important step forward is being able to run scheduled Pipe and Profile extrusion programmes at each of their regional offices, using their newly acquired extruders. Apart from theoretical grounding, students are now also equipped with much-needed practical experience in extrusion, blow moulding, injection moulding and the various plastics fabrication welding techniques.

“We were also in the fortunate position to be able to send some of our trainers overseas to be up-skilled and trained in the latest techniques. They brought this expertise back to South Africa and developed local course materials in line with international best practices,” Kirtida confirmed.

Exciting new training offerings introduced in 2018

Statistics for the past 3 years suggest that training spend has increased steadily year on year owing to the fact that companies are realising the value that trained staff undoubtedly add to their businesses. In order to keep up with this demand and to expand its service offering, Plastics|SA is now offering various new Learning Programmes that were developed specifically with the local training needs in mind.  These include: 

Scheduled pipe and profile extrusion programme.

After acquiring new pipe and profile extruders in all three factories nationally, these specific extruder programmes have now become part of our Scheduled programmes.

Production Technology NQF L2.

Since the technology of production goes hand in hand with the actual process technology, this offering is absolutely critical in addressing production related skills gaps. training breakfasts two more 2/…

A national certificate in Generic Management NQF L5

This is an exciting new offering that is in the pipeline for the new financial year starting in July 2018. Learners that have Supervisory Management NQF L4 are looking for progression. The Generic Management NQF L5 is the next step for these progressive learners. 

Various online training options for soft skills

These are going to be available for all levels of the workforce including office-based staff and not just factory staff.

Other news of forthcoming programmes include the new Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Materials Engineering in Polymers that will be offered at TUT as from 2019, as well as a new 3-year Setter Trade Qualification (the first ever plastics related trade) launching later this year and will be offered by Plastics|SA.

Digital certification

Keeping up with modern trends, Plastics|SA will be issuing learners with digital certificates instead of hard-copy certificates as from the 1st of April 2018.  One of the biggest benefits of going digital, is that it negates the need for printing of hard-copy certificates which have to be either be collected, posted or courier-delivered to a client’s premises.  It also allows clients to always have access to learners’ certificates via the virtual ‘vault’ created for each client.

“Once learners have been found competent in a learning programme, Plastics|SA creates an original, digital certificate for each learner which is uploaded into an online “vault” - a user-friendly cloud platform from where these certificates can be viewed, e-mailed, printed or downloaded for easy reference,” Kirtida explained. 

Other guest speakers

Guests who attended the breakfast sessions welcomed news of these exciting developments before being treated to a variety of different guest speakers who offered insights on topics relevant to each region. In Cape Town, Raldo Kruger of Green Cape spoke about the city’s current drought plans, the business opportunities that exist for plastic companies and what local companies should do to survive the current crisis.  The Johannesburg session saw Matthews Moatli of Productivity SA and Matshidiso Phala of merSETA explain details about the grants that are available through merSETA and how companies should go about applying for this funding for training of their staff members. Thandolwethu Strydom from East Coast Radio entertained the KZN guests and spoke about the importance of everyone in society and how different skills are deeply valuable to the plastics industry, no matter what rung of the corporate or societal ladder these are played out from.

Each session ended with an exciting lucky draw during which guests won a variety of different plastic products and including training vouchers.

Conclusion

“We wish to thank everybody who took time out of their busy schedules to attend our information sessions and for the very positive feedback we have been receiving. Scenario analysts around the world agree that there will continue to be growing pressure and demands on the manufacturing industry in order to keep up with the demands of the population. We believe we are enabling manufacturers to be in the position where they can continue to reinvent themselves and remain competitive because they have a skilled work force that is able to perform well and do the job at hand. We truly believe that a knowledgeable employee is an asset to any company.  For this reason, training should be seen as the ultimate motivational tool that every company needs to invest in,” Kirtida concluded.

For more information, visit www.plasticsinfo.co.za/training

New Music Alert 30 October 2017!!!! 

Slight Edge Events is proud to announce that DJ Spin has just released his new single "Ixesha" featuring Lizwi The Golden Lady.

"Ixesha" is a Xhosa word which means “time” and with this single, DJ Spin and Lizwi bring the message to upcoming artists to have patience in the music industry.

The name "Ixesha" was derived from our talented Lizwi’s chorus "Bolind Ixesha lakho" (Patiently wait for your time). A message which will always be relevant.

DJ Spin is an Afro House Producer. As a DJ, he has played both inside & outside KZN and has had slots on Dirty bass FM (United Kingdom), Ukhozi FM, Vuma FM, Gagasi FM, and Radio DUT.

DJ Spin on Facebook

Our Golden Lady, Lizwi Mbatha has worked with many of the best South African DJ's and Artists and her first single “Indlela” has been recognized and played both locally and internationally.

She just completed working on "Traveller" with Black Coffee.

Lizwi The Golden Lady on Facebook 

Listen and download today:

• Audiomack
• Soundcloud
• Deezer
• iTunes
• Amazon 

For bookings contact Slight Edge Events Sheridan Rupert on 0639754033/ This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

STEP UP FOR HEALTH AT THE DURBAN WELLNESS FESTIVAL! 

Diabetes may be the second highest cause of death in South Africa after tuberculosis but people are still in denial. 

As most people only begin to look after their health when they have a scare and are forced to drastically stem their intake of fast food and begin exercising, the Durban Wellness Festival supported by SASA and Lilly has been created to show people that they can make positive, fun changes before it is too late. 

The strong message from Jenny Russell, branch manager for Diabetes SA Durban, a non-profit organisation that provides support and wellness education for both diabetics and communities at large, is that diabetes is both preventable and manageable. “Get tested at the Durban Wellness Festival so you can manage this silent killer or, better still, learn how to live a healthy life the fun way,” she suggests.  

The Durban Wellness Festival takes place on Saturday, November 11, 2017. It is a true celebration of all things healthy with live music and an expo that not only aims to raise awareness about the scourge of diabetes in South Africa but also to encourage people to look after the one thing that money cannot buy – their health. “Join us for either a 5km Run or Walk, a variety of entertaining activities, and a live performance by Durban singer and songwriter, Holly Wasserfall who also happens to be a type 1 diabetic.

This is a family affair, so everyone is welcome – even your pet dog. But on a leash, of course,” says Russell. Taking place at the Durban Amphitheatre at the Bay of Plenty, the Durban Wellness Festival will open for registration at 10am.

The Durban Wellness Festival officially kicks off at 2pm with the 5km walk and run starting at 4pm with the entire event finishing at 6pm with lucky draw spot prizes. 

Russell adds that despite the light mood of the day, Diabetes SA will not be pulling any punches when it comes to driving home the reality of the diabetes pandemic.  “Diabetes has become known as the Tsunami of the 21st century, killing more people worldwide than AIDS and cancer combined. Our main objective is to bring diabetes into the spotlight, in the hope that it gains the recognition it deserves, instead of remaining in the shadow of HIV, AIDS and Cancer.” To bring the message even closer to home, Russell states that the latest statistics received from a podiatrist doing her Master’s degree are absolutely shocking. “In 2014, 1,288,973 diabetic patients were registered in state health facilities alone in KwaZulu-Natal. 

An unacceptable total of 2323 diabetic lower limb amputations were carried out between 2013 and 2014 in KZN. This amounts to six per day!” she points out. When you have diabetes, your body is either unable to make enough insulin, or it is unable to correctly use the insulin it does make.

As a result, the glucose in your bloodstream cannot move into your cells to be used as energy and thus creates a build-up, resulting in high glucose levels.Damage caused by elevated blood glucose levels is irreversible. Diabetes has been linked to cardiovascular disease, stroke, eye disease, kidney disease, nerve damage, lower limb amputations, sexual dysfunction as well as high blood pressure and high cholesterol.2016 Statistics from the International Diabetes Federation, the World Health Organisation and the Centre for Disease Control paint an extremely depressing picture.

Worldwide, 415 million people were diagnosed as diabetic as opposed to 35 million patients with HIV and 14 million with cancer. Every six seconds a person dies from diabetes-related causes. Every 10 seconds two people develop diabetes and every 30 seconds, a lower limb is amputated due to diabetes related complications.What is most startling, according to Russell is that statistics show that at least 50 percent of those with diabetes are unaware of their condition. “That means that those numbers are, in reality far higher. In some countries this figure may reach 80%. We have between 3 and 3.5 million diagnosed diabetics in South Africa. We also have an estimated 1.5 undiagnosed diabetics and approximately 1.5 to 2 million pre-diabetics in South Africa.” Children are also not immune. Worldwide, every year, 70000 children under the age of 15 develop Type 1 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes in children is becoming a global public health issue with potentially serious outcomes.

Thirty percent of children born since the year 2000 are expected to become diabetic if lifestyle changes are not made.95 percent of all diabetics are type 2 with 90 percent of all complications experienced by type 2 diabetics. “What is so frustrating is that this is preventable if people eat healthy foods and exercise. Hence, it is important to get the message out there and to continually try to educate people to make good lifestyle choices for both themselves and their families,” she concludes.

Supporters of the 2017 Durban Wellness Festival are SASA who are committed to the prevention and treatment of non-communicable diseases in South Africa, as well as Lilly Diabetes, who have been a global leader in diabetes care since 1923 when they introduced the world‘s first commercial insulin. Ninety years later, they remain committed to meeting the needs of people with diabetes from medicines to support programs and more.A major emphasis of Lilly’s work is to understand that people with diabetes should first be seen as individuals. Many of their programs and solutions are designed based on feedback from people who live with the illness every day.

The 5km Walk or the 5km Run costs just R60 per person with all proceeds going towards Diabetes SA Durban.

Please note that this organisation is a self funding organisation and does not receive any form of government funding and all proceeds raised go back into the education of this dreaded disease within KZN.

The Wellness Expo is free to the public.

For further information about this event, please contact Pat Bonini on 082 499 5222 during office hours or via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Introduction

Lorge Consulting Services – has been frequently making headlines following a streak of noteworthy philanthropic endeavours and client success stories. The company has also featured at various single and multi-industry events, on national and international platforms. This time, however, the Premier Certified Sage Partner is sending shockwaves throughout the Southern African business landscape by expanding its product line. This is courtesy of a new addition to the existing suite of cutting-edge BMS solutions: Sage Evolution (SE).  

Following much preparation and planning, the company is proud to announce the official addition of Sage Evolution to the existing family of Sage products offered to the market. This is in-keeping with the company vision to be thee leading provider of innovative, business and industry-specific BMS and BI software. The company’s comprehensive range of sought-after solutions under one umbrella, together with proven industry expertise for more than 30 years, and an unstinting commitment to service excellence - all attest to Lorge’s reputation as a pioneering and forward-facing organisation.    

Sage Evolution – “Next Level” Business Management Resource    

The launch of Sage Evolution in South Africa represented a direct response to the unique and ever-evolving needs of businesses operating in dynamic markets, with intensifying competitive forces and rapidly growing consumer needs. This called for a progressive software solution with sophisticated tools and capabilities as well as the ability to enhance user-experience.       

The latter is a key factor addressed by SE as the software is intelligently designed for exceptional ease-of-use. Additionally, there are a host of important reasons why Sage Evolution is the software of choice for leading industries within South Africa, the continent as a whole and for that matter – globally.  

Consider these 5 compelling reasons why your business development, customer-service and administrative systems can widely benefit from this particular Sage product in 2017 and beyond.    

These features and benefits although considerable, only begin to scratch the surface of SE. For more comprehensive insight contact our experts here.    

1. The features of SE provide for a holistic and fully integrated software solution:  

An effective BMS cannot stand alone as an isolated system that isn’t compatible with others and refuses to factor in the influences of all operational elements. This is where SE’s advantages kick in, as an all-encompassing product that instinctively connects with other applications.  

This means that SE is not only a robust financial management system, but one than can seamlessly network and align to existing third-party programs - wherever required. There is a science to it and a deeply technical side, but this is where the expertise of trained technicians and the comfort of reliable service support come in. SE can therefore work harmoniously with an existing CRM tool, for instance – and the same would apply to any current system that has to be considered. This enables efficient installations as well as tailored products suited to individual business needs.  

2. SE offers ease-of-use - despite its advanced capabilities:  

This is a massive consideration in that, while the software handles complex integration and manages a host of important business functions, the end-user experience is highly intuitive. For instance, the main system manager features an easily navigable System Tree. This welcoming interface caters to everything from system set-up, to control, to multi-level password security, online help and so forth. Such simplicity and functionality foster greater productivity, efficiency and security.  

3. SE allows for the implementation of dynamic Industry and business-specific solutions:     

Since every business differs as do its needs - a scalable and customisable solution is required for peak performance. SE enables one to create business-specific modules that complement the software’s core functions. So whether you need to incorporate a high traffic ecommerce platform into your business management system, or whether you need to collate and analyse data from multiple offices with hundreds of users – unique modules can be created or set-up to cater for these demands.  

4. Flexible Report generation and real-time updating:  

Successful businesses are largely incumbent on the meaningful assimilation and interpretation of various sets of data. This relates to every facet of the business, and in order to be achieved, requires relevant report generation for internal use or sharing with stakeholders. Instances include the need to monitor or report on sales trends, expenditure analyses, inventory movements, wage and salary schedules, debtors or creditors figures and much more.  

Standard reports can be customised by employing the Report Writer module and scheduled reports can be automated to generate and be emailed periodically to specific persons. Furthermore, vast data volumes can be securely pulled and analysed from multiple sources in excel with figures updating in real time. Simply refresh in order to update to most current data. Controlling accessibility and Alert Management for notifications are some of the other useful features.      

5. Superior Inventory Control and Optimisation:  

Inventory monitoring or tracking and management as a whole are fundamental in developing sustainable business success. The SE Inventory Optimisation feature is included as part of the core SE modules. It allows for stock levels to be set and synchronised with preferred suppliers linked to each item. In this way ordering processes can be automated.  

Factors such as lead times and reorder quantities can also be integrated within the system criteria. Even internal stock distribution or movements between divisions can be managed via the Inventory Issue feature. Then the main Inventory module empowers any business to exercise virtually unlimited control over stock. From summarised management reports to detailed operational reports - all can be customised to the requirements of each user.    

Find out more about the benefits and features of Sage Evolution by dialling 010 594 9800 today.    

Why Lorge is a trusted supplier of SE and other Sage solutions  

SE is a powerful tool with user friendly features. However, in order to ensure the most effective solutions, tailored to your specific business - the right technical expertise and after-sales support is vital in harnessing SE’s full capabilities. This will ensure you have the most appropriate solution for your enterprise, efficiently installed and backed by knowledgeable and dedicated service professionals. This translates to optimum system performance and prompt technical assistance when required.  

Here are only a few reasons why Lorge is your service provider of choice when it comes to Sage Evolution:  

• Lorge has earned a reputation of excellence, being trusted by over 10,000 users in the broadest spectrum of industries.
• Lorge has a Dedicated Sage Accredited In-house Training Centre.
• Lorge is an award-winning enterprise and therefore recognised as a leader by the industry.
• Lorge adopts a client-centred approach with all customers. This has allowed the organisation to expand its footprint nationally as well as internationally.
• The in-house knowledge and expertise of Lorge has been firmly entrenched over a number of years. This is evidenced by the comprehensive suite of Sage and related BMS products that    the organisation specialises in.  

Account Manager at Sage South Africa, David Jones, discussed a plethora of Sage Evolution features and benefits with our media representative – a few of which are discussed above. Additionally, David discussed that strict criteria is applied to suppliers wishing to become Certified Sage Partners, of which there are several tiers. Customers enlisting Lorge will have the comfort of knowing that the company is a Premier Certified Sage Partner.           

For further information on Sage Evolution, or to discuss your current enterprise needs, contact our Sales Department on 010 594 9800.

Media Contact
This Press Release is proudly brought to you by communications specialists ~  

Organisation: Genesis Articles Global
Website: www.genesisarticles.co.za
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Contact person: Mark David Sing
Contact Number: +27 76 450 6739
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- By Genesis Articles Global

Introduction  

Leading supplier of specialised Business Management (BMS) and Business Intelligence (BI) solutions    Lorge Consulting Services has done it again. The Midrand-based powerhouse service provider   celebrates yet another milestone achievement by successfully supplying and installing a turnkey software solution for a market leader with niche’-specific and intricately demanding operational needs. This time it was for none other than iconic Digital Signage Specialist, Ethniks.

About Client:  Ethniks  

Well, there’s a slim to zero chance that you haven’t directly or indirectly been exposed to Ethniks and their diverse range of innovative solutions. While you may not exactly know of them as “Ethniks, the Digital Signage Experts”, you’ve certainly come across their products and encountered their services on a frequent basis.  

For instance, they put a smile on so many faces at the many MacDonald’s franchises through the supply and maintenance of digital menus and other informative, alluring and high-tech signage. In other instances, they help you locate your favourite store in major malls and shopping centres through robust wayfinder technology. You will typically feel their presence at the likes of corporates, multinationals operating in a host of industries, banks - as well as public and private spaces that either rely on, or can be advanced by digital signage and similar products suited to divergent applications.  

Lorge mandated to deliver technologically adept solution for Ethniks  

In January of 2016 discussions ensued between Ethniks and Lorge. The primary focus was to identify and implement a solution that would effectively address a major logistic and operational area. This dealt with being able to equip field technicians to not only communicate more efficiently in terms of day-to-day tasks, but also execute such duties with greater ease. In other words, the solution needed to enable enhanced functionality and interactivity. This would be in lieu of delivering technical, support, customer related as well as internal requests with superior efficiency and superb accuracy while working in the field or on the move.  

The recommended solution  

As a platinum certified Sage partner for over two decades, Lorge is a preferred supplier and implementer of associated products including Sage 300. This in conjunction with a relevant and comprehensive CRM solution was proposed and accepted as the solution of choice. A crucial component of the solution installed by Lorge, involved mobile technology. This represented a groundbreaking leap for the already well-established digital signage giant. While the installation as well as sophisticated tools and technology used can be rather technical, in layman’s terms this meant that the field technicians would be able to receive repair and related instructions via their mobile devices. They would also be able to attend to specific changes and reparations remotely – all in real time. It is interesting to also note that Ethniks digital solutions are underpinned by satellite transmission, making their adaptability, dynamic nature and service support extremely stable and responsive. The installed system needed to factor this consideration into the product, installation, and after-sales requirements.  

CRM Product Manager at Lorge, Gustav du Plessis, Sage 300 Product Manager, Riekie Roux as well as Senior CRM Consultant, Glen Taylor, discussed the extent of the project as well as the intricate requirements for a successful installation. They confirmed that despite the complex nature of the implemented solution - which needed to be installed in a manner consistent with the high service-standards established by Lorge - the project rollout was seamlessly facilitated from March of 2016, with the system going live effective July 2016.                

Benefits to Ethniks  

In addition to the specific operational advantages of the above software solution, extensive system-wide benefits include considerable time-saving on previous processes - from quoting to technical updates executed. This naturally translates to improved technical and associated responsiveness, more effective communication, cost-savings in the medium to long term, minimised downtime, increased productivity, stronger customer service delivery and ultimately an improved top line.  

Spokesperson for Ethniks and company accountant, Jaco le Roux, also confirmed that the organisation is already experiencing the positive impact of the relatively new system. They remain firmly confident in the training, ongoing support and effectiveness of the new software solution provided by Lorge. He also indicated that Ethniks has just begun to scratch the surface so to speak of the vastly intelligent software solution and its extensive capabilities.              

To fully understand the solution delivered by Lorge it is worthwhile to consider the broad service and product offering of Ethniks in a little more detail. As a veteran of close on 30 years specialisation, Ethniks provides premium-quality infrastructure in conjunction with pioneering software and creative content integration - including customisation, implementation, technical and customer support. Products range all the way from general digital signage, to interactive information kiosks, to platforms suitable for employee training, solutions capable of interfacing with virtually any data source such as point-of-sale systems, others capable of integrating mobile friendly features like social media and much more. Furthermore, it’s no surprise that they deliver internationally acclaimed solutions, being partnered with SCALA software that power more than half a million screens in over one hundred countries.  

Lorge leads the way  

Lorge, as a multi-award winning organisation, is a preferred supplier and implementer of Sage X3, Sage 300, Sage CRM and Qlikview business and technology solutions in Africa. The company has implemented over 10 000 users across divergent economic sectors and is a trusted supplier for over 250 companies, more than a third of which are listed on the JSE Securities Exchange.  

Additionally, the Ethniks project symbolises a new chapter in the expanding specialisation of Lorge’s service capabilities. This is paramount in a technologically advancing era that demands solutions which are increasingly mobile-friendly, more robust and align to progressive business and end-user trends. The success of this project also paves the way for the digital marketing industry as a whole, notwithstanding other industries that provide innovative solutions for the modern consumer and rely heavily on field technicians.  

For further information on Sage 300, or to discuss your current enterprise needs, simply contact our Sales Department on 010 594 9800. 

Media Contact

This Press Release is proudly brought to you by communications specialists Genesis Articles on behalf of Lorge Consulting Services

Organisation: Genesis Articles Global - a division of Genesis Group

Website: www.genesisarticles.co.za 

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Contact person: Mark David Sing

Contact Number: +27 76 450 6739

Contact Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Cape Town, 12 January 2017 – Luxity is one of South Africa’s newest tech start-ups that aims to give everybody a chance to sport a stylish Louis Vuitton handbag, a pair of luxurious Gucci sunglasses or some trendy Louboutin’s at affordable prices. Causing quite the stir in the industry in only a few months, this young company from Cape Town focuses on buying and selling authentic used luxury goods that are still in great condition. Following the trends and making sure to always look stylish is not always easy and can quickly get very expensive. This is where Luke Calitz from Luxity saw an opportunity to step in and make everyone’s lives more convenient and feel like a million bucks! 

The Luxity online boutique provides access to some of the world’s most coveted brands, ranging from designer handbags, clutches, wallets and purses as well as other leather accessories, premium high heels and flats, high-end scarves, luxury sunglasses, and much more. “We pride ourselves in offering only 100% authentic luxury items that are still in excellent condition. At Luxity we take authentication extremely seriously and offer a full money back guarantee, should you ever prove that we sold you a fake or counterfeit item,” explains Luke Calitz, owner of Luxity. Going to an actual second hand store is not always the most pleasant of experiences and you never know what they might have in stock. On the other hand, going through a platform such as Gumtree or OLX might result in a counterfeit product. “With Luxity, our customers can browse from the safety and convenience of their homes, pay online and have a courier deliver a guaranteed authentic luxury item to their door in just a few days.” This added value of feeling safe and giving them ease of mind has led to many customers coming again and again.

Luxity’s social media channels keep customers up to date on new arrivals, which are all listed at their online boutique (www.luxity.co.za) where every item can be purchased with just few simple clicks. “To ensure that everybody can afford luxury, we offer our customers an interest free layby option where they can pay off their purchase within two months in as many instalments as they wish,” Luke explains further.

Luxity does not only cater to those with a desire to buy designer brands, but also to everyone who wants to sell designer luxury goods – whether it is to create space in the closet, by getting rid of items that do not fit or have never been worn. Like with their customers, Luxity strives to make the user experience as easy and convenient as possible: First, images and information are uploaded on the website. After Luxity’s experienced buying team checks and authenticates the item(s), the seller will be presented with the choice to either accept an immediate cash buyout, a store credit, or the option to list an item on consignment. All of this often takes place within 24-48 hours. 

In only four months this Cape Town based start-up has managed to stir up the second hand market, providing a safe, reliable and trusted service to customers and sellers alike.

5 JULY 2016, DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA – Canoe king, Hank McGregor (Jeep Team), continued his world-class reign of legendary back-to-back victories to claim his fourth Investec Mauritius Ocean Classic title on Saturday, 2 July 2016. The 26km event, which took place near Black River, Mauritius, also doubled as Round 1 of the 2016 ICF Ocean Racing World Cup, which is a new, three-part series on the world surfski calendar. Paddlers faced rough 25-knot downwind conditions at Saturday’s race, with McGregor commenting that “conditions were pretty wild out there, it was super cool! There were some wide-eyed paddlers.” It was a close race against McGregor (Jeep Team), with Australia’s Cory Hill and Michael Booth, and South Africa’s Jasper Mocké and Barry Lewin (Jeep Team), all battling it out for the title until the final two kilometres where McGregor edged ahead to claim the win in 1h08. Hill finished 2nd in 1h09, followed by Booth in 3rd (1h10), Mocké 4th (1h11m30) and Lewin 5th (1h11m57).

Said McGregor, “The final 2km saw us head into the notorious Le Morne Pass, where it’s a hard slog against strong headwinds to the end. I was able to get the lead going into this point, managing to keep it at three hundred metres all the way to the finish. I’m stoked with my fourth win here in a top-class field. The Mauritius Ocean Classic is one of my favourite surfski events as it is a very family-orientated race. This year, my wife Pippa and son Thorsten were here with me, and it was awesome to have their support!” Said Lewin, “I’m stoked with my 5th place finish in Mauritius. Love racing the top guys in the world, and the challenge of a wild ocean. Can't wait for next year.” Round 2 of the ICF Ocean Racing World Cup, the Nelo Summer Challenge, takes place in Portugal this weekend, 8 - 10 July 2016. The third and final event is happening in Tahiti in September 2016. It’s turning into another remarkable year for canoe king McGregor as he proves an unbeatable force in world surfski. At the end of May, he conquered the world’s toughest surfski ultra marathon, the 53km Maui Jim Molokai Surfski Challenge in Hawaii, for a third time. Just a few days later, he won the world’s oldest surfski event, the Illovo Pirates Umhlanga Pirates Surfski Race, in Durban. Then on 29 June, McGregor claimed victory at the FNB Durban Downwind, which is a 2016 World Surfski Series title event. In-between these surfski races, he also won the K1 title at the 2016 South African Canoe Marathon Championships in Cape Town, a result which has qualified him for the 2016 ICF Canoe Marathon World Championships taking place in Germany later this year.

2016 INVESTEC MAURITIUS OCEAN CLASSIC RESULTS:

1. Hank McGregor (SA) - 1:08:46
2. Cory Hill (AUS) - 1:09:43
3. Michael Booth (AUS) - 1:10:18
4. Jasper Mocké (SA) - 1:11:30
5. Barry Lewin (SA) - 1:11:57

Other Jeep Team Results: BMX Jeep Team’s 16-year-old BMX athlete, Alex Dolman, took on riders much older than himself this weekend, as he competed in the Elite category at Rounds 4, 5 and 6 of the 2016 SA BMX National Age Group Series, which took place at the Rhino and Lion Reserve in Gauteng. Dolman managed to place 8th overall. OCR On Saturday, Jeep Team’s OCR champion, Thomas van Tonder, completed the Wolf Pack Challenge, an extreme, but fun, trail running event in Gauteng where there are no winners or losers. Started by Herman Mulder, the event has been designed for trail runners looking for a hard-core, no frills, back-to-basics physical challenge. The challenge comprised of five ascents of the Magaliesburg to the beacon above the Hartbeespoort Aerial Cableway. This equalled 1600m ascent over 21km.

Have a look at the following platforms to keep up to date with Jeep Team SA:

• Website: www.jeepteam.co.za
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/jeepteamsa
• Twitter: @jeepteamsa Instagram: JeepTeamSA

Editors’ Notes
For more information please contact Bronwen Blunden on 079 060 1905 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

DURBAN, 28 JUNE 2016 – The King of surfski, Hank McGregor (Jeep Team), continues his reign of back-to-back victories, this time winning the FNB Durban Downwind Surfski title in Durban on Sunday, 26 June 2016. This is the first time McGregor has won this title since race inception in 2014. 

The third edition of the annual race, which doubled as a World Surfski Series title event, took place in flat ocean conditions, testing paddlers’ endurance and stamina as they raced 26km from La Mercy Beach to Addington Beach. 

McGregor set the pace from the start claiming the FNB Durban Downwind title in 1h44m50. 

Last year’s winner, Matthew Bouman, placed 2nd in 1h45m54, followed by Mark Anderson in 3rd (1h48m54), Gene Prato 4th (1h49m27) and Jeep Team’s Barry Lewin in 5th (1h50m40).

Said McGregor, “I’m stoked to take the win this time around. I narrowly lost it two years ago so it’s nice to win the Durban Downwind for the first time. I was in hospital on Friday so it was a hit and miss whether I was going to race but I’m glad I was able to get out there. Conditions were pretty tough. There was hardly any assistance really so it was a hard slog for 26kms. I managed to get out in front early and then kept the guys behind me for the rest of the race. There weren’t too many tactics involved really.”

It’s been a busy month for paddling legend, McGregor, with back-to-back victories across surfski and canoe marathon paddling disciplines. On 29 May 2016, he claimed his third Maui Jim Molokai Surfski Challenge title in Hawaii. This 53km surfski ultra marathon is considered the world’s toughest surfski event. 

Just days after this victory, and still recovering from jet lag, McGregor won the world’s oldest surfski event, the Illovo Pirates Umhlanga Pirates Surfski Race, which took place in Durban on 5 June. 

He then swapped his surfski for a canoe to claim the K1 2016 South African Canoe Marathon Championship, which took place in Cape Town on 11 June. This result means he has qualified for the 2016 ICF Canoe Marathon World Championships, happening in Brandenburg, Germany, in September.

Now he’s on his way to Mauritius for the 2016 Mauritius Ocean Classic World Surfski Series race, taking place on 2 July 2016. Jeep Team team mate, Barry Lewin will also be competing in the Mauritius Ocean Classic.

2016 FNB DURBAN DOWNWIND RESULTS

1. Hank McGregor 1:44.50
2. Matt Bouman 1:45.54
3. Mark Anderson (AUS) 1:48.54
4. Gene Prato 1:49.27
5. Barry Lewin 1:50.40
6. Luke Nisbet 1:50.52
7. Bailey de Fondaumiere (U18) 1:52.35
8. Jason Ekstrand 1:53.06
9. Steve Woods 1:53.43
10. Wade Krieger 1:54.10

Other Jeep Team results

MTB

On Saturday, 25 June 2016, Jeep Team’s MTB athlete, Thinus Redelinghuys, competed in Race#4 of the 2016 USN MTB Cup Series.

The 50km race took place at the Big Red barn, near Irene, Gauteng. Redelinghuys managed an impressive podium finish, placing 2nd overall.

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Editors’ Notes

For more information please contact Bronwen Blunden on 079 060 1905 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

22 JUNE 2016, SCOTTBURGH, DURBAN – Thursday, the 16^th of June 2016, saw Jeep Team’s surfski paddler, Barry Lewin, and his racing partner, Lee Furby, amongst the first six boats to break the 46.5-km Scottburgh to Brighton Surfski race record, which was set in 1998, by some 16 minutes.

Lewin and Furby came in 3^rd after a nail-biting sprint finish between winners, Matthew Bouman/Wade Krieger, and Luke Nesbit/Gene Prato. Officials were unable to make out a winner between Bouman/Krieger and Nesbit/Prato boats, and unanimously called the race a tie win.

Having initially not planned to participate in the race due to its length and level of difficulty, 3^rd placed Lewin/Furby came into the race with less-than-desirable preparation, which slowed them down in the first 10km. According to Lewin, he was sore from gym sessions over the two previous days, which saw him take around 10km to loosen up.

Said Lewin, “No matter the results, surfski paddling, and specifically, downwind surfski paddling, was the winner. This was all due to the strong community around our sport and the great people I like to call my peers. Thank you, thank you and thank you to all involved in retaining the true essence of why we paddle.”

Lewin will be competing in the FNB Durban Downwind on the 25/26 of June. Some of the best surfski racers in the world will converge on Durban this weekend for the 2016 FNB Durban Downwind, setting the stage for another world-class duel as this World Surfski Series title event draws top elite ocean racers to Durban’s idyllic wintery conditions for this 26km clash.

With the backing of title sponsor, FNB, the event boasts a R40 000 prize purse across its various age categories and stands as Durban’s premier surfski event.

The format for 2016 will be a 26km race between La Mercy and Marine SLC with the course direction dependent on the wind direction on the day. The two-day window period allows organisers the best possible chance of the best conditions over the 25^th and 26^th June.

The singles and doubles races will take place simultaneously with the singles clash being the primary focus; however doubles are still welcome at the event.

SCOTTBURGH TO BRIGHTON RESULTS:

1. Matthew Bouman/Wade Krieger - 2:40:59
2. Luke Nesbit/Gene Prato - 2:40:59
3. Barry Lewin/Lee Furby - 2:46:42
4. Brett Hadiaris /Thomas Lovemore - 2:47:43
5. Zoog Haynes / Linton Hoper - 2:53:44
6. Brett Bartho/Grant van der Walt - 2:56:18

#JeepTeamSA

For more information please contact Bronwen Blunden on 079 060 1905 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

PIETERMARITZBURG, 8 JUNE 2016 – Just days after winning the world’s toughest surfski ultra marathon, the Maui Jim Molokai Challenge in Hawaii, Jeep Team’s Hank McGregor was back racing on home turf, this time claiming victory at the world’s oldest surfski event, the Illovo Pirates Umhlanga Pirates Surfski Race, which took place in Durban on Sunday, 5 June.

McGregor finished the 27km race in 1h59, followed by Matt Bouman in second place (2h05m30) and Wade Krieger in 3^rd in 2h05m55. Luke Nisbet placed 4^th in 2h07m26, with Jeep Team’s Barry Lewin in 5^th (2h07m42).

The first Pirates Umhlanga Pirates Surfski Race took place in 1957, which makes it the oldest surfski race in the world, and cements Durban’s status as the birthplace of surfski.

Said McGregor, "It was a really solid day for me and I am really happy to get another win here even though I am still battling with a bit of jet lag. There was a good following tail wind all the way to Umhlanga. The wind was against the current so you felt like you were going faster than you actually were and then on the return, we were with the current but into the wind, which made it a pretty tough day out. I managed to get quite a big lead on Matt Bouman early on, and then I turned with the doubles so that gave me a good incentive into the final leg.”

After making headlines across the country for his surfski achievements over recent weeks, McGregor’s focus now shifts to the 2016 South African Canoe Marathon Championships in Cape Town on 11 and 12 June 2016.

"We have the South African Marathon Champs, which is also the national trials for the World Champs in Germany later this year, so I will hopefully be selected so I can defend my World Marathon title,” said McGregor.

2016 ILLOVO PIRATES UMHLANGA PIRATES SURFSKI RESULTS -25km

1. Hank Mcgregor - 1:59:16.64
2. Matthew Bouman - 2:05:30.76
3. Wade Krieger - 2:05:55.09
4. Luke Nisbet - 2:07:26.23
5. Barry Lewin - 2:07:42.37

Other Jeep Team results

OCR

Jeep Team’s OCR athlete, Carina Marx, showed her mettle when she competed in Race#3 of the tough IMPI Challenge, which took place at Virginia Trails in Eston, KwaZulu-Natal, on Saturday, 4 June.

Marx raced in the IMPI Elite category, which is a 20km trail run approximately 26 to 28 obstacles. She achieved an impressive 2^nd place finish in 2h26m. Trish Bahlmann won the women’s race in 2h20m, with Catherine Robson placing 3^rd in 2h46m.

Said Marx, “The Impi Challenge took place in a stunning venue, but that was quickly forgotten by competitors as we faced the tough course consisting of cavernous tracks, kloofing, mud running and a swim through icy water. I had to dig deep to keep up with Trish [Bahlman], who is a strong trail runner, and I managed to finish just a few minutes behind her. All in all it was a great race!”

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Editors’ Notes

For more information please contact Bronwen Blunden on 079 060 1905 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..