Sport without spectators is making a comeback under Lockdown Level 2. Rugby players have to mind their language. And women basketballers are just getting better and better. Here’s what’s been happening this week in sport…
Lockdown has been difficult for the South African sporting scene…but that hasn’t stopped sports lovers from doing what they do best, even if they’ve had to be a little bit more creative about it nowadays. That’s why every week we take a look around and round up some of the most interesting sports writings out there – just for you.
Here’s what’s been happening this week…
Lockdown Level 2: Changing The Game(s)
The biggest news for amateur sport this weekend in South Africa – the biggest news in the country, basically – is the announcement by President Cyril Ramaphosa of the easing or lowering of our coronavirus lockdown restrictions to Level 2, meaning “sport without spectators is allowed”. What that means to the many grassroots sportspeople in Cape Town and around the country is still to be seen – but the Department of Sport and Recreation and relevant federations should shed some light on details in due course. And Cape At 6 will be right there to bring you the details, not to worry.
Running, Riding And Racing Round The World
Lockdown forced many sports to be more creative, employing virtual events to promote sporting achievement while adhering to safety measures. Western Province Athletics, like many other clubs and federations, continues promoting responsible running with a Virtual Race next weekend. Real running is still in vogue, though, and endurance racing is experiencing a solo renaissance, with athletes setting new records by tackling the toughest trails all on their own. And when it comes to motor racing, South Africa’s Brad Binder is lighting up the Grand Prix motorcycle scene, continuing to post stellar performances after being praised for his skills by President Ramaphosa last week.
Rugby Reaches Out A Helping Hand
While many sports people have been starving for action, many athletes, clubs and federations have used the opportunity for good cause, raising funds to assist to reach out to the less fortunate. Among them are members of Western Province Rugby, who joined forces with New Hope to source and distribute food parcels to hungry citizens. Meanwhile, in England, Premiership rugby has resumed – only there won’t be any crowds or ticket sales: Programmes will be supplied in digital form for free to supporters and season-ticket holders can watch games without paying a subscription to the broadcaster, BT Sport. Oh, and no bad language either. Good luck…
Basketball Is Getting Better And Better
Basketball has never been short of amazing athletes, particularly in the US – and it’s been amusing to see how teams in the WNBA Finals have been increasing their playing pace of possession. But what’s changed in 2020 is that now virtually every team is playing faster, using possessions on par with how the outliers were playing in past years. And that’s before you even consider the coronavirus effect: since games have started being played without crowds, basketballers and footballers alike have gotten even better at shooting. Go figure.
Women’s Month: Tales Of Amazing Sportswomen
As we celebrate Women’s Month, we can’t ignore the massive contributions of so many talented and hardworking women in sport. In that regard, almost every person or organisation has a story to tell. The Western Cape Open Boxing Organisation has been posting short stories of some of the amazing sportswomen on their social media platforms. And don’t forget about the GSport – voting is closed for the 2020 Momentum gsport Awards, but the nominees are some of the biggest achievers around, and well worth a look. And GSport regularly highlights women in sport – check it out.
And that’s that for the week. See you next time…and until then, stay sporty!
Did we miss anything? Are there interesting developments you think we should be talking about? Why not let us know at myolisi.gophe@gmail.com? Or if you want to know more about what’s been happening in sport during lockdown, why not check out the latest issue of the Cape At 6 magazine?
