Keen On Cape Town | News, events, entertainment, sports and lifestyle in the Mother City

Get ahead in 2012 with a part-time course from GetSmarter

Posted on January 25, 2012 by Adrian

It’s hard to believe that we’re already well into 2012 and things are back in top gear. Of course, the new year brings with it lots of new challenges and opportunities. One way of putting yourself in a strong position, is to take a course and learn some new skills. If you’re currently working or you can’t commit to full-time studying, then you need a study option that’s flexible and fits into your personal schedule. And that’s exactly what GetSmarter aims to provide.

GetSmarter is a high-touch online education company that works with top universities and industry experts to present a portfolio of more than 20 part-time online short courses. Courses on offer include a range of business and lifestyle topics such as internet marketing, project management, financial management, event management digital photography, creative writing and more. GetSmarter’s online courses are presented in conjunction with the University of Cape Town (UCT), Stellenbosch University and Random House Struik, so you know you’re getting quality course material.

A typical online course runs for ten weeks and includes over 120 students from around South Africa. Courses are divided into one-week modules, starting every Monday. The advantage of an online course is that you can study from the comfort of your own home or office. I’m sure you’ll agree that saving on travelling time and costs is a BIG plus.

Just because you’re studying at home doesn’t mean that you’re on your own. You’ll have a Course Convener and Course Coordinator available to assist you every step of the way towards completing your course. GetSmarter’s dynamic team includes 50 people who work together with a network of 15+ teachers, making sure you get the most out of your online studies.

To kick-start the new year, GetSmarter is offering a R500 discount on courses. To claim your discount, simply quote “Keen on Cape Town” as the promo code when registering for the course of your choice by 3 February 2012.

Now it’s up to you to find that course. Just take a moment, browse through the options below and see what inspires you!

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Ultimate X festival hits the V&A Waterfront on 18 February 2012

Posted on January 25, 2012 by Adrian

If you’re a fan of extreme sports, then this one’s for you. The third Ultimate X festival will be taking place at the V&A Waterfront on Saturday 18 February 2012. The event which is brought to you by Absa Life Xtreme, will feature loads of extreme BMX, FMX, skate and wake boarding.

Over 5,000 spectators are expected at this year’s Ultimate X festival. The action is set to take place at the Gateway Canal at the V&A Waterfront (opposite the Audi dealership), where some of the largest ride structures ever seen in South Africa will be built. Well known extreme sports athletes like Nick de Wit, Alastair Sayer and Dallan Goldman (FMX), Greg Illingworth, Colin and Stuart Louden (BMX), Moses Adams, Dlamini Dlamini and Justus Kotze (skate) and Devon Nassif and Nick Burton-Moore (wake boarding), will be taking part and competing for the top prizes.

In addition to the sporting action, there will be lifestyle stalls featuring brands like DC and Fox, a live radio broadcast, a full bar service, top SA bands and DJs, Xbox 360 gaming, plus a tented area where you can relax on day-beds, bean bags and sofas.

Gates open at 11h00 and the action is expected to finish by 19h00. Zula Lounge in Long Street will host the official after-party with bands and DJs providing the live entertainment.

You can buy Ultimate X tickets in advance from Computicket for R90 each. Alternatively, you can get your tickets at the gate on the day for R100 each. For children of four to six years old, the cost is R40. For more information on the event, check out www.ultimatex.co.za.

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Nashua Mobile Cape Cobras vs DHL Stormers at Newlands: 12 February 2012

Posted on January 24, 2012 by Adrian

If you’re keen on seeing the Nashua Mobile Cape Cobras up against the DHL Stormers in a game of T20 cricket, then Sahara Park Newlands is the place to be Sunday 12 February 2012. The two Cape Town based teams will be facing each other in the annual Pick n Pay Newlands Challenge and this year, it’s set to be as competitive as ever.

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The game brings a light-hearted end to the pre-season training schedule for the DHL Stormers, as they gear up for the upcoming Super 15 season. Be sure to check out all of the DHL Stormers Super 15 fixtures – there are loads of great matches to look forward to. For the Nashua Mobile Cape Cobras, the game gives them a bit of extra practise, as they defend the domestic T20 trophy which they won last year.

Tickets for the game can be purchased from the Sahara Park Newlands ticket office or at selected Pick n Pay and PostNet branches. The cost is R30 for adults and R15 for kids under 16 years old. Tickets will also be available online from TicketPros. The action kicks off at 12h00 and it should be finished by around 17h00.

If you’ve seen the two teams up against each other before, then you’ll know that it’s a lot of fun to watch. Where else can you see Springboks like Schalk Burger, Bryan Habana and Gio Aplon taking on the likes of Justin Kemp, Richard Levi and Charl Langeveldt in a game of cricket? All you have to do is decide who to support – the Cape Cobras or the Stormers. Enjoy!

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Get ready for the 45th Cape Peninsula Marathon: 19 February 2012

Posted on January 24, 2012 by Adrian

The 45th edition of the popular Cape Peninsula Marathon is scheduled to take place on Sunday 19 February 2012. The event – which consists of a full 42.4km marathon and a 21.1km half-marathon – is a favourite with runners as it’s an official qualifier for the Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon. The run is ideal preparation for the Cape’s most famous marathon which takes place in April. It’s also a qualifier for the Comrades Marathon.

As its name suggests, the Cape Peninsula Marathon sees runners covering a large part of the scenic Cape Peninsula. The 42.2km marathon starts in Green Point (just next to the Cape Town Stadium) at 05h15, while the 21.1km half marathon starts at the Bergvliet Sports Club in Children’s Way, Bergvliet at 07h00. Both routes lead to the finishing point in Simon’s Town.

Online entries are open for the event until Friday 10 February 2012 and you can enter online at www.topevents.co.za. Entry forms are also available at the following Sportsmans Warehouse stores – Rondebosch, Tygervalley, Canal Walk and Somerset Mall. There are a limited number of long sleeve cotton t-shirts available if you’d like to add the shirt to your collection.

The official charity for the event is The Beth Uriel Home – House of Light. The organisation was established in 1987 to help marginalized youths between the ages of 15 and 22 years. By learning life skills through a comprehensive development programme, these young adults can have a chance at a better future. For more information on the charity, visit www.bethuriel.co.za.

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See The Parlotones live in concert at D’Aria: 12 February 2012

Posted on January 19, 2012 by Adrian

The Parlotones annual Valentine’s concert at D’Aria has become a favourite with fans over the last couple of years. This year, the band will be back at the wine estate, treating fans to a picnic concert on Sunday 12 February 2012.

The band has been working on material for a new album, expected for release later this year in April. Maybe you’ll get to hear one or two new songs, along with classic Parlotones tracks like ‘Giant Mistake’, ‘I’ll Be There’, ‘Colourful, ‘Push Me To The Floor’, ‘Should We Fight Back’ and more.

Tickets for the D’Aria picnic concert are available from WebTickets for R175 each. For kids under 12 years old, the cost is R60 each. Gates open at 12h30 for the picnic and the concert starts at 18h00. It’s advisable to get there early if you’d like a spot near the front.

You’re welcome to bring along a picnic basket to the concert (just note that you can’t bring your own alcohol) and there’ll be plenty of wine and food on sale at the venue as well. You’ll find D’Aria Wine Estate on the M13 (Racecourse Road) in Durbanville.

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Veuve Clicquot Masters Polo at Val de Vie Estate: 25 February 2012

Posted on January 17, 2012 by Adrian

Val de Vie Wine and Polo Estate in Paarl is the place to be on Saturday 25 February 2012. That’s when the second Veuve Clicquot Masters Polo is set to take place and it promises to be packed with fast-paced polo, high fashion and fine champagne.

Veuve Clicquot is well known for sponsoring several big polo events around the world. Last year’s Veuve Clicquot Masters was the first event that the prestigious champagne house had organised in Africa. The event proved to be a resounding success, with many polo fans and celebrities attending and soaking up the vibe.

The 2012 Veuve Clicquot Masters is all set to be bigger than before, with stylish crowds expected for the day. Guests can enjoy the VIP hospitality at Val de Vie’s luxurious club house facilities, where ‘before polo tea’, gourmet canapés and champagne will be served. The polo is set to be action-packed, with Val de Vie having world-class polo facilities in one of the most beautiful locations in the Cape.

Tickets are available from WebTickets for R400 each and the event kicks off at 14h30. You’ll find the Val de Vie Estate on the R301/Jan van Riebeeck Drive in Paarl, just over 3km from the N1.

It looks like the Veuve Clicquot Masters is here to stay!

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567 CapeTalk brings you Moonstruck on Clifton 4th Beach: 18 February 2012

Posted on January 17, 2012 by Adrian

If you’re a fan of 567 CapeTalk’s Solid Gold music, then this one’s for you. The annual Moonstruck on Clifton 4th concert is set to take place on Saturday 18 February 2012. As always, you can bring along a picnic basket and enjoy the sounds of a live session band playing all your favourite Solid Gold classics on the beach.

Every year, Moonstruck raises much needed funds for the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), whose members risk their lives to protect those out at sea in need of assistance. The event is family friendly as well, with entertainment on hand to keep the little ones entertained. It’s now twelve years on and Moonstruck is as popular as ever.

The music starts at 18h30 but it’s advisable to get there early to find a spot, as there’s always a big crowd. Just remember that alcohol is prohibited on the beach but the music rocks, so you’ll be entertained through the night. Enjoy!

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94.5 Kfm K-Day Music Festival – Val De Vie Estate, Paarl: 31 March 2012

Posted on January 14, 2012 by Adrian

The annual 94.5 Kfm K-Day music festival is heading our way on Saturday 31 March 2011. This year, the popular event will once again be held at the Val De Vie Wine and Polo Estate in Paarl. Six acts have already been confirmed for K-Day 2012 and these include Prime Circle, Locnville, Flash Republic, GoodLuck, The Arrows and Danny K. Expect more big names to be announced in the build-up to the big day.

[Update: 2010 Idols winner Elvis Blue has been added to the line-up.]

See Prime Circle live at Kfm K-Day 2012

K-Day is building up a reputation as one of Cape Town’s favourite music events. The focus is on showcasing some of the best in South African music in a family friendly environment. As always, the event is brought to you by 94.5 Kfm and Santam.

GoodLuck will be live in action at Kfm K-Day 2012

Tickets will be on sale from Computicket and the prices are R160 for adults and R80 for kids aged between 3 and 12 years old. Gates open at 09h00 and the music kicks off at 11h00. I’d advise getting there as early as possible to avoid issues with traffic. The Val de Vie Estate is located on the R301/Jan van Riebeeck Drive in Paarl.

You’re welcome to bring along food and picnic baskets but alcohol and braais are prohibited. There will of course be refreshments and food on sale at the venue.

Which other bands and artists are you hoping to see at this year’s concert? Post a comment below and share your thoughts.

K-Day 2012 is set to be bigger and better than ever. Enjoy!

Posted in Entertainment & Music | 5 Comments

Idols auditions hit Cape Town on 18 February 2012 – GrandWest is the venue

Posted on January 14, 2012 by Adrian

Another season of Idols is on the way and auditions kick off soon. Cape Town auditions will take place at the GrandWest Casino & Entertainment World on Saturday 18 February 2012. If you think you’ve got what it takes to impress Gareth, Unathi and Randall, then start fine-tuning those pipes and choose a song which will blow them away.

Auditions are open to South African citizens aged 16 to 30 years old. If you’re younger than 18 years old, then you need a parent or guardian to accompany you to the auditions. Remember to bring your ID document to registration, which takes place on the day of the audition.

Idols auditions for the rest of South Africa take place on:

Saturday 4 February 2012: Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg
Saturday 11 February 2012: Ushaka Marine World, Durban
Saturday 25 February 2012: Walter Sisulu Square, Kliptown, Soweto

Musical instruments will once again be allowed at the auditions. Good luck!

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It’s Castle Cape Town Tens time again – Hamilton’s Rugby Club: 3 & 4 February 2012

Posted on January 12, 2012 by Adrian

The Castle Cape Town Tens rugby tournament is back for another round of action this year. The popular event will take place at the Hamilton’s Rugby Club in Green Point on 3 and 4 February 2012, so get ready for a weekend of fast paced rugby, live entertainment and good fun with your mates.

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The Cape Town Tens is the brainchild of SA rugby legends Bobby Skinstad and Robbie Fleck. The game merges the technical aspects of 15-man rugby such as line-outs and scrums, together with the speed, space and skills of sevens rugby. Each tens rugby team consists of five forwards and five backs.

This year, the competition is bigger than ever before with 72 teams competing in four divisions – the Premier League, the Vets League and the Heavy and Light Beer Leagues. As always, the tournament will see a few rugby legends participating – look out for the likes of Justin Marshall, David Rees, Leon Lloyd and Malcolm O’Kelly, along with SA stars Breyton Paulse, Pieter Muller, John Allen and Jake Boer.

One of the big prizes at this year’s event is a new Golf GTI, valued at R365,000 and sponsored by Stor-Age. To stand a chance of winning the car, you’ll need to fine-tune those kicking skills and have a crack at the posts.

Entertainment is big at the Castle Cape Town Tens and the 2012 line-up includes GoodLuck, UK pop/rock band The Lightyears, the Graeme Watkins Project and also favourites Me and Mr Brown. In addition, you’ll find beer and food tents and also a kiddies play area, making the event accessible to the whole family.

Tickets for the 2012 Castle Cape Town Tens will be on sale from Computicket for R70 each, with no charge for kids under 12 years old. The event is brought to you by Castle, Powerade, Canterbury and the City of Cape Town.

The Odd Shaped Ball Charity Evening: 2 February 2012

To kick things off, a charity dinner event dubbed ‘The Odd Shaped Ball’ will be taking place at the Grand Café & Beach in Granger Bay on Thursday 2 February 2012. Book a table and chat with legends like Justin Marshall, Dan Lugar, Leon Lloyd, Bobby Skinstad and Robbie Fleck.

There’ll be dinner, drinks and live entertainment on the night, plus a Q&A session with the guys. All proceeds raised will go to the Jag Foundation and the Christina Noble Charity Foundation. Both organisations give much needed assistance to underprivileged kids.

Bookings for tables of ten cost R10,000. You can get in touch with Kirsti Lyall (kirsti@klprsa.com) or Andrea Smit (andrea@klprsa.com) / 021 671 4127 for more info and bookings.

Posted in Sports & Fixtures | 2 Comments