Border Icons in Sport (BIS) wrapped up its impactful three-year project celebrating legendary sports figures from diverse communities with an event highlighting heritage and unity.
The local organising committee, chaired by Geoff Gamiet, took a groundbreaking step by including representatives from all ethnic backgrounds, a move Gamiet described as “reviving the spirit of community and nation-building”.
The event blended nostalgia with inspiration, highlighted by an art exhibition by local artist Tony Noble, titled Be the Aloe.
The exhibit, reflecting resilience and growth, reminded attendees of the region’s deep talent and community pride.
Another poignant moment was a balloon ceremony, led by Pastor Noel Burrel, honouring the memory of athletes who have died.
BIS president Greg Fredericks set a reverent tone with an address on community values, while Eastern Cape head of health, Dr Rolene Wagner, spoke on the strong link between local support and athletic excellence.
Total Risk Associates, a long-time sponsor based in Johannesburg, received special recognition for its support, which has enabled BIS to reach a wider community, ensuring the project’s sustainability and impact in sports development.
Among the honorees were Dr Lesley Ann Forster, from Masimyana, for her leadership in girls’ soccer, rugby icon Mluleki George, and cricket stalwart Ray Mali.
Swimmers Allan Fritz and Shawn Adriaanse, netball legend Thoko Mlonyeni, former principals Adam Fray and Raman Khandoo, tennis star Claude Moonieyan, SA Men’s Hockey player Julien Hykes, and the Border Women’s Hockey team were also celebrated for their remarkable achievements and contributions to sport.
The event’s theme, “Putting Your YES on the Table,” emphasised BIS’s mission to recognise local talent.
Gamiet thanked all involved for their “tireless efforts,” and urged the community to keep supporting BIS in its mission to elevate local sports and heritage.
