AS the 16th edition of the Kearsney Easter Rugby Festival (KERF) prepares to kick off, the Kearsney College and the Durban beachfront community are bidding farewell to a familiar and much-loved figure. For nearly a decade Lucas Mahlangu has captivated festival-goers and passersby with his intricate sand art along the Durban beachfront, proudly promoting KERF each year.

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This year marks the end of an era as Mahlangu prepares to relocate to Pretoria with his family for health reasons. Known for his quiet dedication and passion, Mahlangu has taken great pride in ensuring his artwork remains in pristine condition throughout the festival, often repairing wind and rain damage early each morning. His final piece is a heartfelt tribute to a festival he has supported with both his talent and heart.

Kearsney College has paid tribute to Mahlangu’s long-standing contribution. “Lucas has become part of the KERF story. His sand art is more than just decoration — it’s become a symbol of the excitement and spirit of the festival. We’re incredibly grateful for his commitment and wish him and his family well on their new journey,” said the school.

Meanwhile, final preparations are well underway at the college as it gears up to host 28 participating teams from across South Africa and beyond. Of those, 15 teams will be staying on campus throughout the week, supported by coaches, analysts, physiotherapists, and other team staff.

A highlight on the local rugby calendar, the festival takes place this long weekend on Thursday, Saturday and Monday (April 17, 19 and 21). This year’s edition promises to be bigger and better, featuring 12 senior boys’ high school teams, 12 primary school teams, and new to the programme — four girls’ U16 teams who will play during the lunchtime slots each day.

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KZN will be represented in the senior boys’ division by Durban High School, Glenwood, Westville Boys’ High School, and hosts Kearsney College. International flavour comes from Peterhouse Boys’ School in Zimbabwe, the alma mater of Springbok legend Tendai “Beast” Mtawarira.

Other notable teams include Gauteng’s Hoërskool Dr EG Jansen and Hoërskool Monument, Hoërskool Framesby and Dale College from the Eastern Cape, and newcomers Hoërskool Durbanville and Milnerton High from the Western Cape.

The primary school line-up includes teams from Glenwood Prep, Hillcrest Primary, Westville Senior Primary and more, with local development teams such as uThukela Rugby and KZN Ibutho also participating.

Spectators can avoid queues by purchasing tickets via Quicket. Entry is R45 per person, with children under six free. A KidZone, food stalls, and a field-side refreshment tent will add to the festival vibe.

All games will be live-streamed via the SuperSport Schools app, and full event info is available at www.kearsney.com or through the Kearsney College Events app.

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