The unmistakable aroma of simmering potjies, the rhythmic crackle of fireside banter, and the roar of rugby camaraderie set the stage for something truly special at the Pretoria Country Club on 7 July. It was here that the South African Motor Body Repairers’ Association (SAMBRA), in partnership with BASF Coatings, proudly launched the Bok Pot Challenge—a spirited celebration of South African heritage, rugby fever, and, of course, the beloved braai.
This innovative initiative is more than a culinary showdown. It’s a vibrant display of local culture and community spirit, blending friendly rivalry with deep-rooted traditions and flavourful storytelling. With the backdrop of Glasurit’s centenary mascot celebration—Rudi the Macaw turning 100—it became clear this wasn’t just another corporate function. This was a full-bodied experience, one that brought people together around fire and food in the most South African way imaginable.
The Flames of Friendly Rivalry
True to form, SAMBRA members showed up with tools swapped for tongs, and refinishing finesse transformed into potjie prowess. Teams from Senatla Panelbeaters, Saturn Autobody, Dino Panelbeaters, Extreme Autobody, and German Motors came armed with secret spice blends, heirloom recipes, and an infectious spirit of togetherness.
Each pot was a bubbling reflection of teamwork and personality. Be it oxtail steeped in red wine, chicken with a citrus twist, or traditional lamb with heritage spices, the competition was less about one-upmanship and more about shared joy and mutual respect.
“The level of creativity, flavour and friendly competition on display was outstanding – we might need to add ‘Top Chef’ to our members’ list of credentials,” quipped Juan Hanekom, SAMBRA’s National Director. “This challenge is more than just a fun day out – it brings people together, builds relationships, and reminds us that business is just as much about connection as it is about performance.”
Saturn Autobody Takes the Pretoria Title
Among the flavourful contenders, it was Saturn Autobody that took top honours in the Pretoria leg of the challenge. Their secret? A perfect blend of bold taste, shared experience, and old-fashioned teamwork.
Pieter Terblanche, who led the winning team, spoke of the collaborative process behind their dish. “Each team member shared their favourite potjie memories, and from there, we created the perfect dish. Choosing who would cook was simple – the person with the most experience around the fire naturally took the lead, which was me,” he said with a chuckle.
The key to their success wasn’t just in the ingredients, but in the harmony of their approach. From fire management to finely timed flavour layering, every hand had a role.
“Most importantly, we cooked with heart,” Terblanche reflected. “The careful balance of flavours, our attention to detail, and the unity in our process really set us apart.”
Winning the regional leg has put Saturn Autobody in line for a once-in-a-lifetime prize: a trip to Europe to watch the Springboks take on Ireland. A fitting reward for a team that embodied both the spirit of the event and the essence of South African pride.
More Than a Meal – A Movement
Beyond the competition, the Bok Pot Challenge is redefining customer engagement in the industry. Spearheaded by BASF Coatings, the initiative is designed to nurture connection, loyalty, and shared purpose between the brand and its network of customers, repairers, and enthusiasts.
Celebrity chef and braai connoisseur Piet Marais presides over the judging, ensuring every potjie is held to the highest standards of taste, technique, and team synergy.
As the challenge makes its way to Johannesburg, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Eastern Cape, the excitement is building toward the Cape Town finale on 16 August—a showcase not only of culinary creativity but also of the passion that drives the motor body repair community beyond the shop floor.
Bringing the Industry to Life
For SAMBRA, the event perfectly reflects the values the association holds dear—professionalism, unity, and community upliftment.
“From tools to tongs, SAMBRA members have proven that their skills extend far beyond the body shop floor – right into the heart of the potjie pot,” says Hanekom. “We’re proud to support BASF in creating opportunities like this that bring the industry to life in such a tangible and authentic way.”
As fires are lit and potjies bubble across the country, the Bok Pot Challenge continues to stir more than just pots—it’s stirring a renewed sense of pride, connection, and celebration across the automotive repair industry.
And if you thought panelbeaters only knew their way around panels and paint, think again. Turns out, they can braai with the best of them.
