Piping hot championships coming to town
Come and support the BHS pipe band on July 29 as they battle it out during the national championship.
Tuft your tams and tighten your kilts, it is time for the 21st annual South African Pipe Band Championships and Champions of Champions hosted by Benoni High School (BHS).
With their chanters tuned and snare drums providing rhythmic procession, 25 acclaimed pipe bands from across the country will be converging at the Benoni Northerns Sport Club on July 29, battling it out for the coveted national title.
According to BHS bandmaster, Malcolm Engles, competition leading up to this event has been fierce, with the lads and lassies from BHS and Jeppe High School for Boys both vying for top honours.
“Our members have shown tremendous grit and dedication throughout the season, each playing at their best both as a band as well as in their respective solo categories,” said Engles.
“I believe we have a sporting chance of taking the title this year. Healthy competition from our rivals has led to each member putting in extra work to up the ante.”
With the upcoming event signalling the end of this year’s piping season, Engles hopes to end it off with a bang, incorporating a vibrant market into the day’s events.
From food vendors to local crafters, the day promises to be the calendar event of the year after which the event will be seamlessly wrapped up with the awe-inspiring mass band play, which will take place from just before 17:00.
“Anyone who has not had the privilege of hearing all the participating bands playing ‘Amazing Grace’ and ‘The Flower of Scotland’ this will be, by far the highlight of the event,” said Engles.
“Whether or not you hail of Scottish decent, the mass play has the power of transporting you to the highlands, even just for a moment.”
Following the prize-giving ceremony, those in attendance can look forward to a live performance by HunTer Laite, at the beer tent.
“We invite the community to come support our band, enjoy some local delicacies and spend a day out in our beautiful city,” he said.
“There will be loads of fun for the entire family, spot prizes, lucky draws and raffles.”
Any vendors who would still like to be part of the festivities may contact Engles on 084 322 1399.
Entry into the venue will be charged at R50 for adults, R30 for pensioners and children under 12 enter for free.
Parking will be available at R20 per vehicle and gates open at 09:00.
Children can look forward to enjoying unbounded play-time on various exciting inflatables, within the safe and monitored children’s play area.
Additional charges apply.
ALSO READ: WATCH: Benoni High piper takes top honours
ALSO READ: WATCH: BHS pipe bands come second in championship
