Durban gets set for hog heaven
Bikers enjoy an early kickstart to two-day extravaganza
BIKER babes, killer cocktails and a gleaming Harley revved up the crowd at the trendy Chairman in Durban’s Point precinct on Thursday.
They had gathered for an early kickstart to the upcoming Light The Fire event, billed as an “exciting KwaZulu-Natal experience showcasing bikes, tourism and lifestyle”.
Details of what to expect at the two-day extravaganza — set to roar to life from April 24 to 26 at the Dezzie Raceway in Port Shepstone — were revealed after guests were ushered into the open-air bar area for “Anger” cocktails, The Chairman’s own version of mojitos.
A jazz band created a laid-back vibe before Gagasi FM DJ Zookey Zarling — a biker herself — herded guests to the launch spot with her powerful voice.
Fellow biker Sinethemba Dhlomo, chic in her black jacket and cropped polka-dot pants, is one of the drivers behind the event, organised by Nkosi N Projects. She said the event, which was held for the first time last year, would provide entertaining motorsport action in a controlled environment while showcasing amazing locations on the south coast.
Dhlomo also touched on South Africans’ growing appetite for motoring and signature events such as hers.
For those so inclined, the event will feature a 2.8km racetrack, a bike exhibition, drifting, freestyle motocross demonstrations, a mass charity ride, bike wash and a beach party.
Formalities done, platters laden with crumbed prawn parcels, chicken skewers and bruschettas were eagerly received, although many turned up their noses at the bite-sized strawberry meringues.
Drinks flowed as women bikers swopped stories.
Among them was Lovey “Spider” Mnisi, a member of the Impi biking club. Clad in her Impi biker blazer and black skirt, Mnisi recalled how she had been introduced to the biking world by her brother. Now she owns four bikes and still loves the freedom of hitting the road.
Nkosi N Projects’ Bukeka Zwezwe also regards herself as a “road hog”, and is another Impi member.
Mnisi complained that the sport still seemed to be dominated by men.
“Virgins” to the biking world, Talent Shabane and his wife Lulama, said they were excited about their new pastime.
“I will be riding behind my man,” Lulama winked.
The highlight of the evening, it seems, was the chance to straddle the gleaming Harley.