The South African National Defence Force ensured that Rand Show 2011 got off to a spectacular and rousing start this morning (April 22). The official opening on the grassed arena was full of pomp and ceremony with a large contingent of marching soldiers, the strident notes of a mixed pipe and brass band and the ceremonial raising of the South African flag watched by a strong contingent of senior officers from all the arms of the SANDF ensured it was a memorable event.
Add in the hum of an Agusta helicopter landing in the arena and the sight of two more helicopters carrying flags of South Africa and the SANDF, as well as two freefall skydivers and the ear-splitting roar of two Gripen fighter jets passing overhead and it was an unforgettable experience for those fortunate to be in attendance.
As crowds poured in to this year’s Rand Show, this was also in line with the Rand Show theme of making new memories.
The amazingly graceful and well trained Lipizzaner horses kept the crowd at the arena enthralled after the departure of the SANDF. Then it was a case of the visitors moving off to attend a performance by Brian’s Circus or to spend time at the huge amusement park.
