After a late dinner and a well-earned rest, the group awoke refreshed and ready for another busy day. They travelled to Somerset College for their second fixture against Leading Edge Development XI. Based in Somerset West, Leading Edge provides professional cricket coaching alongside life-skills and educational support for underprivileged boys and girls aged 11–12 in the Helderberg region, making the occasion especially meaningful for everyone involved. We were proud to donate cricket kit to support the charity, as well as presenting cricket pads to their Player of the Match, along with a Beacon hat and a rugby ball kindly provided by Gazapi’s Director. After a closely contested match, which went in Leading Edge Development’s favour, the group enjoyed a tasty pizza dinner, rounding off the evening in style with a fun Hawaiian shirt theme.
Day three brought another exciting match, this time against Somerset College, once again set against a spectacular backdrop of mountains and clear blue skies. The afternoon held even more memorable experiences, with a visit to a cheetah sanctuary. Or pupils were thrilled to enjoy the rare opportunity of getting up close to a real cheetah, creating memories that will last forever. The day concluded with the group treating themselves to delicious milkshakes and steaks after an action-packed schedule.
Sunday provided further opportunities to explore the country’s remarkable wildlife as the team headed to Aquila Private Game Reserve. Following lunch, they embarked on a late-afternoon game drive, spotting zebras, elephants, lions and many other species roaming freely in their natural habitat – an experience that will live long in the memory.
Monday afternoon’s fixture against The Grove Primary School proved to be one of the most dramatic contests of the tour, going down to the penultimate ball. After minor travel disruptions, Team Beacon elected to bat and posted a formidable total, highlighted by a quick-fire 50 from Seb S (Year 8) and an unbeaten 30 from Rocco G (Year 8). Despite a spirited effort in the field, The Grove edged past the target in the closing moments, inspired by a commanding unbeaten 90 from their leading batter. While the narrow defeat was disappointing, the match provided a valuable learning experience, giving our players the opportunity to reflect on their performance, build resilience and identify areas for continued growth and improvement.
Tuesday morning brought more sightseeing, as our group boarded a ferry for an educational visit to Robben Island. This powerful and thought-provoking experience gave our pupils the opportunity to learn more about South Africa’s history and the struggle against apartheid. They visited Nelson Mandela’s prison cell, offering a moving and memorable insight into an important chapter of the country’s past.
That afternoon, the team enjoyed a dramatic triumph, winning a tense Super Over against Bishops Diocesan College. Their composure and unity under pressure made the victory especially satisfying.
The following morning began with breakfast on the top of Table Mountain, as the clouds lifted to reveal breathtaking views across Cape Town. After descending by cable car, the squad travelled to face Kirstenhof Primary School, ready for their next challenge. A gripping contest ended in a hard-earned win against a side unbeaten for two years, sparking great celebrations on the coach journey home before some well-deserved rest.
Thursday’s breakfast came with sweeping views over Camps Bay, setting the tone for the final day. The tour concluded with a demanding match against SACS, where our group unfortunately lost by 35. Despite the result, spirits remained high as the group reflected over dinner on an extraordinary trip. Beyond developing their cricketing ability, they experienced moments that will stay with them for years to come.
We are absolutely delighted to have received such fantastic feedback from our trip leaders and members of the public regarding our pupils’ behaviour and the way they conducted themselves throughout the tour. They truly did Team Beacon proud – well done, boys!
