Mafikeng set to soar next month

IN a major boost for tourism in the area, the North West town of Mafikeng is gearing up to host the 27th World Gliding Championships next month. According to the event director, Dick Bradley, South Africa pipped Poland and Australia to host the global championships. "We were able to convince the international gliding community that South Africa had the resources, skills and commitment to stage the event." Bradley says Mafikeng was chosen because it met a range of criteria including: airspace freedom, airfield infrastructure, out landing risks, hotel and guesthouse accommodation, access to the main hubs into South Africa and support of the local community to name by a few. During the three week period of the championships, approximately 1 000 - 1 500 people are expected in the town. "During the championships, Mafikeng will be the focus of the gliding world and we can expect an influx of enthusiasts from all around the world. The participants all enjoy the sense of freedom and adventure that gliding offers and the event translates into a wonderful opportunity to market the region and the country," concluded Bradley. (Miguel de Sousa)