The Full Gospel Church hosted a highly successful bikers’ competition and market day on Saturday.

According to the competition’s co-ordinator, Wally Smal, the main aim was to raise funds for the church while ensuring bikers remain safe.

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“The safety of any biker is always a top priority, which is why the roadworthiness of the bikes was at the top of the list for winning the competition. We also check the cleanliness of bikes, as a clean motorcycle is always admirable, enhancing its other features, which were also taken into consideration during the contest,” he said. Lights, sprockets, chains and tyres were among the inspected parts.

Smal said the turnout was beyond their expectations, making the task for the judges to select a winner very difficult. In first place was Johann Smal (Suzuki Hayabusa), second place was Pr Louis Jordaan (Suzuki Boulevard), and third place went to Louis Hurter (KTM Duke). The winner of the classic bike section went to Marius Smit.

Smal also said the competition saw various bikers of the Vollies Bikers Club and Crusaders MC Banished Charter Nelspruit, and wished to thank all of those who had supported the event. He said they intend to host the competition annually.

The market saw an array of unique handmade items up for sale. From 3D-printed dragons, to clothing, soft toys, and of course a wide range of eats. Last year’s Lowvelder’s Got Talent winner, Bianca Swift, the Laudate Choir and the Vollies Orchestra made sure that the crowd was thoroughly entertained. Leandri Bester, finalist in the fifth season of reality show SterStatus, was the programme director.

The South African National Blood Services (SANBS) held a blood drive at the event.

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A donor recruiter of Mbombela, Anel Fincham, said the aim was to collect at least 15 units, but they only managed to obtain 13. “However, we are grateful for the number we collected, it is better than going back home with nothing. We believe it will make a difference. The local SANBS is still urging the public to donate blood at their nearest mall. So far, we do not have any artificial blood to replace human blood, so we are calling on people to donate and save lives,” Fincham said. She also thanked all donors and the Full Gospel Church for making this possible.

People who want to donate blood in the Lowveld can visit these areas: The Grove Shopping Centre, i’langa Mall and Hazyview Junction.