Last weekend I spent the majority of my time at an event that opened my eyes to true fellowship, grit, comradery and a resurgence of a community spirit that has not been seen in many a moon.
This was the Benoni Tigers Action Cricket team’s audacious Guinness World Record Attempt for the longest marathon playing indoor cricket, and what an occasion it was.
Sixteen fit and hardy young men partook in 22 matches of Action Cricket and achieved their target over a 26-hour period at the Benoni Action Arena from noon on Saturday to 2pm on Sunday afternoon.
Confirmation of the record now lies with the world authority on records, Guinness, and the players and organisers should know the outcome of their big effort in a few weeks time.
What stood out for me at the Arena, though, was the excellent turnout of Benonians over this 26 hour period who rallied together to support this crazy attempt.
The popular DJ Mark Stent, a Benoni resident himself, was one of those who backed the boys and even 5fm’s DJ Fresh made a brief appearance on the Sunday.
The Benoni City Times served as one of the sponsors by providing editorial content and publicity and I (as the local sports scribe) feel extremely privileged to have been a part of this wonderful showcase of Benoni talent and determination.
When we eventually see the local lads gracing the pages of the book of man’s greatest accomplishments I can feel proud that the BCT assisted in some small way.
One of the driving forces and aims of the attempt was to “beat the Aussies at their own game”.
The Australians invented the sport and as true patriots of South Africa our boykies have proven a point to those Down Under.
Whether the Aussies (or Action Cricketers from any other country) decide to beat the record or not we can feel pleased that our team has set the standard and raised the bar.
Congratulations to everybody involved with the record attempt.
LG
