Capetonians turned out in their tens of thousands as the Springboks national victory tour arrived in Cape Town, starting at the City Hall on Friday November 3.
The full route included the CBD, Langa, and Bonteheuwel.
The Springboks won the Rugby World Cup in France on Saturday October 28 against arch rivals, the All Blacks of New Zealand. This is their fourth world cup title.
Speaking in front of City Hall, Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis thanked the Boks for inspiring South Africans.
“First, thank you for reminding us that South Africa can be the best in the world. Your lesson to us is that, if we want to be the best, we have to do our best. You took just 80 minutes to win the final, but that victory took thousands of hours of preparation – of doing your best every day, in every task, and setting high standards for yourself and your team.
“Second, thank you for showing that winning is about more than just having the most points; we are winners because of our values. You reminded us of the values that make our country great. Respect, dignity, diversity, honour, service. These are the values that bring people together.
“And finally, thank you for showing that our diversity is our most powerful asset. This team has gathered talent from every corner of our country. From the vineyards of the Swartland, the mountains of the Boland, and the hills of KwaZulu-Natal, from Bethlehem to Bushbuckridge, and Zwide, and Bellville, and Tsholomqa, and Strand.”
Springboks captain Siya Kolisi said the support received from the Western Cape was “second to none”.
“Thank you for all your support. Thank you for standing united behind us, because that drives us to unite as a team,” he said to the cheering crowds.
“I want to encourage you to never stop believing in us, and keep working to look as united as you look today. It is beautiful to see. It was not about us anymore, it was about you, the people. I hope we made you proud.”
Mr Hill-Lewis said: “Bokke, you represent all that is great about South Africa. You remind us of everything South Africa can be. We love who you are, and what you mean for all of us.”
