Thousands of horse racing enthusiasts and fashion lovers flocked to the small town of Ntabozuko on Saturday to celebrate the 11th anniversary of the Berlin November event.
The flagship event attracted high-profile guests in their best suits and gowns, among them Deputy President Paul Mashatile, Eastern Cape premier Oscar Mabuyane, musical artists Betusile Mcinga, Zuko Kupiso and Malaika singer Tshedi Mholo.
The event hosted numerous Eastern Cape live artists.
Mashatile said events like the Berlin November were good for the province as they attracted tourists.
Revellers showed their creative interpretations of the theme “Purple Reign”, and horse racing fans chanted songs supporting the race competitors.
This year’s event introduced a celebrity race, with each horse representing a celebrity.
The Wafa-Wafa final race of the day was won by Weekend Special, owned by Lopez Magongo.
It was Magongo’s third consecutive year of winning the race after he took top honours with Konakelephi, which is now enjoying its retirement.
The jockey walked away with R100,000 in prize money.
Kupiso, affectionately known as Zuko SA, said he found performing at home heartwarming.
“Berlin November is a big stage. It’s great to be recognised in the province where you come from,” he said.
Commentator and Dale College pupil Qhayiya Tokota, at the event for the first time, said:
“I feel very blessed. I never thought I’d be [commentating at] a big event besides rugby. I enjoyed commentating here.
“It’s exciting ... celebrities are here and engaging,” he added.
“I’ve been in the spotlight with cameras capturing my face. I believe I’m representing my school, my community and my people, dressed in my uniform, and I’m so excited to be here,” he said.
TruFm Presenter Reggie Solani said it was always great to be part of the Berlin November spectacle.
The multi-award-winning broadcaster said the platform provided a chance for the creative industry to shine.
“I’ve been part of this flagship event, I don’t know for how many years, but it always gives me pleasure as an entertainer; also, every time we have Berlin November, it provides for and puts food on the table for a whole lot of the families in the area.”
Solani said being part of the event was not just about entertaining the crowd, but contributing to the economy.
“There are people who wait for this time of the year, for them to be able to put food on the table, so it means a lot,” he said.
He said it was an ideal platform for upcoming artists to showcase their skills and talent.
“To come here and witness some of the artists we see on TV — from the Eastern Cape and across the country — is something amazing,” he said.
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