Day Ten: Durban Rickshaw Rides, Ushaka Marine World, Kwazulu-Natal Military Tattoo

After the sun of the previous day, Durban clouded over and provided some traditionally grey and dismal English weather for its English tourists.  Nonetheless despite the inclement weather, the RHS fleet were out in force, learning about Durban's diverse past, on a double-decker tour of the city.  We then swapped modes of transport, by having an extraordinary 'rickshaw' experience along the waterfront of Durban, courtesy of the local tourist board. Both student and staff were treated to a complementary rickshaw ride in some extremely colourful vehicles, pulled by some fit and strong young men wearing some extremely ornate headwear!

Matilda Bolton-Smith and Rebecca Jones were particularly thrilled with the rickshaw race, proving that some petty rain cannot dampen the RHS spirit.

And they're off!

Mr Wood and Mr Bowry find their true vocations... 

Once everyone had arrived safely, we went into  'UShaka Marine World', where there was a plethora of water-based activities and exhibits, including dolphin and sea lion shows and a water park with the highest water slide in Africa. 50 RHS students signed up for the shark dive at the aquarium and described the experience as unforgettable, but unsurprisingly, wet.

Katie Taylor and Emily Davidson-Brett bid their families and friends farewell...

A shark smells the distinct whiff of Suffolk-educated meat. JAWS eat your heart out!

Kompoon and Elizabeth Leaver were lucky enought to be picked out of the large crowd to get up close to the dolphins. The dolphins showed their appreciation by thoroughly soaking them with water.

After UShaka Marine world, it was time for the Band to perform at the annual Kwazulu-Natal Military Tattoo. Performing alongside professional bands and regiments from throughout South Africa, the band performed with exceptional aplomb, receiving a welcome round of applause from the local audience.


It was also news to everyone, when the local compere (as instructed by Mr Mann) introduced the RHS Band, as being on  a "world tour celebrating the school's tercentenary" - apparently South Africa and the RHS Parade ground constitutes a world tour... Or nearly!

Mr Snoddon looks forward to incorporating Holbrook's equestrian display team

 into next year's Divisions Parade.

The RHS Band perform in front of an appreciative Durban crowd

RHS band perform in the finale with all the other regiments

For both the performers and audience, it was an extremely memorable experience and Mr Jones and all the Band members should be congratulated for an excellent performance.