"The weekend was structured to give the hosts and their guests plenty of time to network and exchange ideas and information, with plenty of opportunities to experience the Tata range of 4x4 vehicles," explains Kim Winstanley, MD and chief architect of Eventworx.
On arrival at the Eqstra offices, guests were given a quick briefing before being handed directional maps and the keys to a Xenon - TATA's popular double-cab bakkie. Each guest drove a vehicle out to the pristine Pebble Rock Golf Course, where they were treated to an entertaining display by the gregarious trick shot specialist, Mike Scholtz. After the demonstration, guests traveled to the luxurious Didimala Game Lodge in Hammanskraal, just outside of Pretoria. Following a brief presentation by TATA, the group enjoyed a competitive game of poker while sampling some top quality whiskey and cigars.
On Saturday morning, after breakfasting in the company of Scholtz and cricketing legend Pat Symcox, the guests were taken onto a challenging 4×4 course where they put the Xenon vehicles to the ultimate test. Facilitated by Symcox, they competed in time trials and negotiated some tricky bits wearing blindfolds!
"This customized track set in the bush gave the guests a chance to really experience just how capable a vehicle the Tata Xenon is while at the same time allowing for a great casual setting in the company of Symo," event architect Jonty Rhodes added, "although not all the drivers knew just how to handle the deep mud or dusty tracks making for great material at the awards session following the morning driving experience" added Rhodes.
After the adrenalin-filled morning, guests welcomed the opportunity to relax and be pampered, with a choice of watching rugby, clay pigeon shooting, massage therapy, or taking a laid-back game drive. The evening featured an informal bush braai, with a festive Marimba band setting the tone. A professional astronomer was present with two giant telescopes, giving the group a fascinating tour of the African skies.
On the final morning, guests received a 4:30am wake-up call, just in time to be swept away on a hot air balloon trip over the spectacular dawn landscape. When they returned, guests were served a hearty breakfast before being bid farewell by their hosts.
"Over and above the planned daily activities, the group was constantly delighted by the small touches - chocolate truffles left on their pillows, branded scarves and beanies - which made them feel particularly welcome and at home," adds Winstanley.
