Athlone Stadium was aan die brand on Saturday as 21 minstrel troupes put their best foot forward at the first weekend of the Kaapse Klopse Karnivaal Assosiasie (KKKA) competition.
The troupes were divided into five divisions, namely Champions league 1 and 2, Super league 1 and 2, and Division 3 Atchas.
Competitors were Ken-Fac, Juvie Boyz, Baruch Entertainers, Cape Town Hawkers, Original D6 FWS, G-Stars, Ken- sington All Stars, Son Seawinds, All-Stars, D6 Argus, V&A Minstrels, Xtreme Minstrels, Mitchells Plain All Stars, Kuilsriver, Young Dynamic Minstrels, Bishop Lavis, Crystal Palace, Manenberg Superstars, Original Famous Wild Apaches, The Last Tomahawks and Wild Commanches.
Over 20 000 spectators packed into the stadium to support their favourite troupes, who competed in the categories of Best Dress, Senior Drum Major, Junior Drum Major, Klopse Jol, Best Band, Adult Sentimental and Junior Sentimental.
KKKA director Muneeb Gambeno says the day went well despite minor hiccups.
“We welcomed 20 000 people into the stadium and everyone was happy with the outcome of the event,” he says.
“There were however times when things looked impossible when some people in the production circle pulled out. But we managed to run with it and save the day.
“What stood out for everyone was the Klopse Jol that was a favourite.
“People definitely got their money’s worth. Between 5pm and 9pm all the Klopse Jol activity was done and the stadium was all packed up and clean by 11pm.”