East London - Sports
East London is an ideal sporting destination, boasting a climate and infrastructure which are conducive to outdoor activities and a breathtaking coastline with golden beaches which offer opportunity for every imaginable water sport. From surfing the perfect wave at one of the world-renowned surf-spots to fishing, canoeing, windsurfing, swimming and rubber ducking, or simply just sunbathing, there is something for everyone. On land, adventure activities, including hiking, horse-riding and cycling, will keep visitors occupied.
The city hosts provincial, national and International sporting events and the wide variety of sporting activities on offer, cater for groups as well as the individual.
East London has also produced top sports men and women in many disciplines and offers world-class sporting facilities including cricket, rugby, diving, tennis, golf, rugby, cricket, hockey and many others.
Cricket is very popular in East London, home to the world-class Buffalo Park Cricket Stadium which hosts amateur and professional fixtures. Border Cricket has produced world-class players such as Makhaya Ntini and Mark Boucher.
Rugby is also popular in East London and the city is home to the ABSA stadium which can accommodate around 15000 people. East London schools have produced a number of Springbok rugby players.
Motor racing has always been popular in the area and many national motor-cross events are held in the area surrounding East London. Jody Scheckter, ex Formula 1 Champion hails from East London.
Golf is another activity enjoyed in and around East London and the city is home to a number of high-quality golf courses. The East London Golf Course is rated among the best in South Africa and recently hosted the Mercedes-Benz Africa Open Golf Championships, highlighting the city's ability to host world class sporting events.
Other popular activities include Martial Arts (judo, karate, aikido, tai chi), boxing, motor racing, soccer, mountain biking, skydiving, athletics, horse riding and water sports such as surfing, swimming, scuba diving, fishing, boating, yachting and windsurfing.
The international IronMan 70.3 ultra-triathlon has been held in the city for the past two years and has proved to be a great success.