OUR FIRST LOOK AT THE SIGHTS OUTSIDE OF JOHANNESBURG

Within a few short months of starting work, we had met some friends that were very active in travel around South Africa. One weekend we get in cars and with our families head off to see the famous Sun City complex in Bophuthatswana in Bantustan (Bantu people’s homeland). This was a homeland declared independent by South Africa, but not recognized by any other country. It now forms a large part of what is, in modern times, Namibia. And, because it was independent, was able to offer a huge gambling complex, including world class golf, a wild animal park and many tourist activities.

It was very popular with people from Johannesburg and Pretoria. We were very excited to go. There were a number of families that also had children of Ron’s age and a couple as young as Ange. This place was spectacular. It had three major casinos, in the style of Las Vegas and tons of activities for families. For those inclined, it also had a major world golf course called Sun City International. It was here, at that time, where the famous Million Dollar Challenge was played. Which included many British, European and African Professionals, brave enough to risk the sanctions and play for the biggest purse in the world.We were lucky enough to see it one time.

Well we arrive, not knowing what to expect, however the layout of this place was fantastic. The music, sights, sounds and general excitement of this complex was a needed break from the more conservative lifestyle in Johannesburg. Much of the entertainment was international, with some of the biggest names in the world performing here. The accommodations were first class and Deysi and the girls settled right in. They offered programs for the kids that started in the mornings and lasted all day. There was shopping for the ladies, many pools where you could just lounge around and enjoy life.

For the men, well, we left early every morning to play golf. We would go out at 7:00 am finish 18 holes, go to a casino pool for lunch and drinks and then back out on the course for another 18 in the afternoon. As close to paradise as it could be. I sucked bad at golf, but enjoyed myself thoroughly. We played a magnificent course set right into the African scenery. We played amongst baboons that the caddies had to shoo away from our balls. It was very competitive, with some of my colleagues being professional or very close to it.

After golf we all met up and looked at the various other distractions offered in the park. One day we were down at the crocodile farm and sure enough in big bold letters was an offer to eat some croc meat. Let me at it! I couldn’t wait. Of course Deysi and the girls are having none of that so I had to eat it by myself. If I remember correctly it was a delicate tasting meat, not white but also not dark like beef. I thought it was delicious but could not tempt anyone else to try it. Nothing I tried worked. Bribes, to no avail, threats to less avail, and coercion was weak. I almost had Ange. But when her mentor refused, she also fell in line and passed.

Deysi just looked at me. I think she was hoping, that I had another replay of the wild game biltong episode. Then everyone thought it would be a good idea if I was strapped into a parachute. And then, towed at speed behind a power boat until it lifted my fat ass out of the water and up in the stratosphere. Geezus. They dragged me around that lake, hanging off this parachute like some big bloated toad. Finally when I had given up all hope of ever coming down, they deposited me and the chute into the middle of the lake and made me swim back. By the time I finished I was beat and ready for a nap. of course Deysi and the girls were fresh and ready to “rock n roll”.