RWC Trophy Tour – One year later

Humbled and over-awed was the reaction of Springbok captain Siya Kolisi when he walked out of customs to a united South Africa exactly a year ago. Thousands of Springbok supporters had been waiting many hours to welcome their heroes at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg.

It was only the beginning of scenes reminiscent of the 1995 and 2007 Rugby World Cups. The Treble Group were honoured to be once again tasked with ensuring that millions of South Africans got to see their heroes parade world rugby’s greatest prize.

The planning of this project was mammoth, with very little time to waste. But Treble’s experienced team ensured that the logistically-demanding project ran smoothly and that South Africans got to share in this special moment with their heroes.

Treble had previously worked closely together with SA Rugby to successfully organise the Trophy Tour after Jake White and John Smit brought the Webb Ellis Cup following the Boks’ 15-6 win over England in Paris. The 2019 vintage was extra special, though, as they overcame significant odds against them to achieve the unbelievable.

No rugby team on the planet can eclipse the unification and nation-building that this little golden cup brings to South Africa. Treble had had first-hand experience of this for the entire duration of the tournament, with its management of Boktowns across the country.

We saw South Africans from all walks of life unite. The atmosphere at the Boktowns were electrifying and it gave a real glimpse into what South Africa can achieve as nation if they work together. Hopefully the fruits of 2019 will long remain as we navigate through a pandemic that has turned the world on its head.